(2008, 90 min)
Country: U.S.
Director: James Bolton
Studio: Here!
SYNOPSIS:
Dream Boy is a moving film based on Jim Grimsley's stunning and tragic novel
about gay first love. When the shy Nathan moves next door to the charismatic Roy,
the boys strike up an immediate friendship. As they grow physically attracted to
each other, the two must keep their desires secret or face violent backlash from
their rural backwoods community.
REVIEW:
Nathan has moved to a new town — apparently his family moves often and rather
quickly. Nathan’s dad is a nasty, violent drunk and his mother stands by, helplessly
watching her son crumble under the abuse. Luckily Nathan has hiding places where
he’s safe with his fantasies.
The boy has developed a crush on his blond-haired neighbor Roy, which quickly turns
from daydreams to reality. They steal time to make sweet love in secret, keeping
the relationship hidden from their families and Roy’s suspicious buddies. The boys
can’t imagine why Roy hangs out with the sissy boy Nathan. The group of friends
plans a camping trip that misfires from the very beginning — there are darker
motives and forces at work here than a simple camping expedition. But even the
scheming teens don’t anticipate the dark events that take place that fateful day.
Director James Bolton (The Graffiti Artist) has worked wonders in bringing Jim
Grimsley’s delicate, classic gay novel to the screen intact. With its moss-covered
live oaks, teen gay love and worn country paths, Dream Boy is a stunning
literary adaptation.
-- Scott Cranin, TLA Video (http://www.tlavideo.com )
