by Frank Gaimari I WAS BETTER LAST NIGHT: A MEMOIR HARVEY FIERSTEIN © 2022 Knopf, 400 pages At the start of my writing journey, brimming with dreams and youthful naivety, I sent my screenplay to Harvey Fierstein. I didn’t expect a response — he was Harvey Fierstein, after all, a Broadway legend, a Tony-winning playwright, a voice that could shake the heavens. But to my … Continue reading The playwright, the legend, the man: Harvey Fierstein
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Here’s my take on My Own Private Idaho (1991), directed by Gus Van Sant. It’s a strange yet fascinating film that lingers long after you’ve watched it. At its heart, it’s about figuring out who you are and what it means to search for love and a sense of belonging. Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix both deliver incredible performances, making the story feel raw … Continue reading My Own Private Idaho
⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you’re looking for a film that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant chaos of 1990s New York City, Party Girl is your ticket to the dance floor. Directed by Daisy von Scherler Mayer, this indie gem is a delightful mix of comedy, drama, and a touch of romance, all wrapped up in a whirlwind of eccentric fashion and unforgettable characters. At the heart of the … Continue reading Party Girl
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Few films have etched themselves into the cultural consciousness as profoundly as Brokeback Mountain. Directed by Ang Lee and released in 2005, this tale of forbidden love between two ranchers in the American West has become a landmark in LGBTQ+ cinema. As we mark its 20th anniversary, the film returns to cinemas for a limited release on June 22 & 25, inviting fans and … Continue reading Brokeback Mountain returns to theaters for its 20th anniversary celebration
⭐⭐⭐⭐ I went into Andrew Ahn’s remake of The Wedding Banquet without expectations and left the theater genuinely impressed. This reimagining pays a heartfelt tribute to Ang Lee’s original, skillfully blending timeless themes of love, family, and identity into a fresh, emotionally resonant narrative that captivates from beginning to end. At the film’s heart is Min (Han Gi-Chan), a Korean immigrant navigating life in Seattle, … Continue reading The Wedding Banquet
⭐⭐⭐ João Pedro Rodrigues’ film O Fantasma is a bold and visually striking debut that immerses viewers into themes of desire and alienation. This Portuguese film captures the struggle of a gay man who feels utterly out of place in society. With its raw and honest approach, O Fantasma has carved out a significant niche in queer cinema, urging viewers to confront both discomfort and beauty. … Continue reading O Fantasma (The Phantom)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ On Swift Horses is a film that pulls you in with its heartfelt story and engages you with its deep, emotional performances. Directed by Daniel Minahan and set in the sun-soaked 1950s, it’s a movie about love, identity, and the quiet battles we all face. From start to finish, it’s clear that this film is something special. At the center of it all is … Continue reading On Swift Horses
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jim Fall’s Trick is a charming and heartwarming romantic comedy that masterfully blends humor with tender moments, creating an experience that resonates deeply with LGBTQ+ audiences. Released in 1999, the film stands out not just for its wit but also for its authentic and celebratory portrayal of queer love. While mainstream cinema often sidelines such representation, Trick brings it to the forefront, celebrating love … Continue reading Trick
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Directed by Bavo Defurne, North Sea Texas is a coming-of-age film that beautifully explores the complexities of love, identity, and the search for belonging. Set against the backdrop of a charming coastal town in Belgium, the story follows Pim, a quiet and introspective teenager navigating the turbulent journey of self-discovery and understanding his place in the world. Jelle Florizoone shines as Pim, delivering a heartfelt performance. … Continue reading North Sea Texas
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Not every movie sets out to tackle big themes or win prestigious awards, and that’s okay. The Parenting, directed by Craig Johnson and written by Kent Sublette, is a prime example of a film that aims to entertain, and it succeeds effortlessly. With its vibrant mix of humor, family drama, and spooky surprises, this kind of movie guarantees a fun watch. The story kicks … Continue reading The Parenting
FRANK'S FILM REVIEW 