Review of Shelter (2007) by Charlie R — 28 Jan 2009

It's always refreshing to see an entry into the "gay" cinema genre that doesn't reduce itself to mind-numbing cliche and stereotypical characters. That being said, this is one of those "feel good"s, a movie that never takes itself extraordinarily seriously, but doesn't mistake its viewer for an idiot, either. This one's a typical coming out story, but the locale is fresh and the characters are new and real.

It's not intense, and it's not extremely powerful--although don't be surprised if you feel your eyes getting wet once or twice--but it's disarmingly sweet and good-natured. There's really nothing distractingly bad about it, despite a few moments that seem overly contrived. And things may fall into place a bit too much when it's time to start up the predictable ending, but it leaves you satisfied, and content. The acting is good, although few stars shine in the bunch; unfortunately, this includes our main actor, who is likable, but almost too emotionally vacant to sweep us up into his experience. But nonetheless, you do believe the romance and pain he goes through, enough to wish for things to work out. And in a "feel good", isn't that the point?

A simple experience, but a good one. Put this in and kick back. Makes for good foreground entertainment, but also comfortable background noise for repeated viewings.