Review of I Am Michael (2015) by Samantha P — 29 Jul 2017

As the first scene played across my laptop scene, I very well cringed. I thought the statements were far too heavy and dramatic, and although I consider myself a critic of religious groups, I had a feeling that this intitial portrayal intended to unfairly turn the audience against christianity.

However, the succeeding scenes changed my mind. Yes, the movie is a little too liberal with shots saturated with drama and close-ups of Franco's dark demeanor. But what really establishes this movie as necessary and valid is underlying true story, as well as the heart-wrenching evolution of Michael.

Maybe this evolution, the way that Michael seems to struggle and repress something, wasn't totally accurate. Or maybe it was. For me, it doesn't matter. The journey that Franco's character displays provokes many questions and leaves a lingering feeling after the final scene closes out.

I recommend following this movie with Michael Lost and Found, a short documentary produced by Michael's ex-boyfriend Benjie. If I Am Michael does not provoke you, then the documentary will.