Bonus Track

I liked the second half better, The first half I was suffering from second hand embarrassment so bad. George and his mom and his dad, all of them embarrassing to varying degrees, sometimes all at the same time.

Mark is more like a unicorn and this entire romance is a little idealized, well I suppose it's a teen romance of sorts, just like a lot of the straight ones are, where the cool guy notices the nerdy awkward girl and brings her out of her shell when nobody else saw the beauty and the potential in her. Only now it's with boys. There's some humour in there as well.

And good god I was confusing Jeffrey's actor with Steve Coogan. I was wondering how come he looks so young all of a sudden. Damn, it's Jack Davenport. I never noticed Josh O'Connor in there, I have no idea what character he played.

I have been waiting excitedly to see this movie for so many months. As a Gay Young Adult I was looking forward to a new Coming of Age Story that seemed sweet from the promotional pictures I had seen. Yes it was Sweet, but there was not much going on other than knowing that both Characters "George and Max" Liked each other. The Story was cute "fluffy type of movie" but there was a lack of exploration regarding George's first relationship and the growing feelings between the two characters was a fail. This was more like a "Hallmark" movie rather than the comparison that some have made to "Heartstopper (which this movie should not in any way be compared to it)" it was cute but it ends there. This movie has no re-watch potential IMO as the storyline is too simplistic.

Just finished Bonus Track and honestly, I loved it. It's the kind of queer coming-of-age story that really gets under your skin in the best way-emotional, tender, and beautifully real. The chemistry between the two leads felt so natural and heartfelt, and the way the film handled identity, love, and self-expression was subtle but powerful. I could see parts of myself in the characters, especially in the quiet moments of vulnerability and longing. The cinematography was warm and intimate, and the soundtrack? Absolute perfection. Definitely one of those indie gems that stays with you after the credits roll. Highly recommend if you're into honest, beautifully told queer stories with heart.

In small town 2005-6, George is in his last year of high school, and dreams of being a music star. However, he has failing grades, including music class, where he can only plunk out the same few notes that will form the rhythm track of his barely-started song. He holds out hope of being noticed at the year-end Leavers' Talent Show, though a kindly teacher warns him that, after the show, he will be leaving.

Along comes new student Max, son of a famous music duo (who recently separated, both professional and marital). Even if faulty, Max's rendition of a piano sonata is far above George's efforts. Despite being mobbed by girls, Max has his eye on George, and they work on his song together. While on an overnight trip to a challenge camp, Max gets George to sneak out with him to drink and have a kiss - which is captured by a paparazzo, making them big local news.

Max decides to leave for London, where he could be lost in the crowd, leaving George to perform alone at the Talent Show.

This film has an interesting concept of being divided up into "tracks", each part introduced with a different song. With his disinterest in them, the girls at school has already pegged George as gay, while lesser experience with Max means he is still not typecast - until the photo comes out. As the audience, we are waiting to see if the Bromance becomes something more.

It was a well-produced film. The two protagonists had understanding and loving families. The school was supportive of its students. The cast did well. I would not criticise anyone who may have looked older than the school-leaving students they portray. It is the message behind the setup that is vital, not their appearance. I can't imagine the audience boycotting Grease because the stars were much older than high school students. This film encourages an introverted child to respect and accept himself and his feelings. A new friend he met by chance, who made him feel that it was all right to be yourself, Shouldn't life allow us to meet compassionate friends who might bring us some happiness? My wife and I brought up our three kids with respect for their feelings and views. This film truly does that. The two main stars portrayed their roles with passion. The entire production team is worthy of praise for their efforts.