The Dark Side of Love

Michael (Jason Susag) and Julian (Matthew Montgomery) are two brothers who have not been in touch for years. As a way to support himself and his drug habit, Michael is employed as a prostitute. Julian on the other hand works an honest job as a waiter at a hotel. Although Julian is openly gay, he and his mother have maintained a close relationship, while Michael has refused to have anything to do with either of them. As Julian helped out his mother financially and cared for her, Michael was nowhere to be found. When Julian finds that his mother has suddenly died, he must return to her house and meet up with his brother. Michael has brought along his girlfriend, Chanel (Raquel Rosser) who is also an addict, but her upbeat attitude nonetheless brings people together. Steven (Harsha First), an attractive young man Julian had recently met under unusual circumstances, shows up unannounced at the doorstep, but he is willing to support Julian during this difficult time. Matthew Montgomery as the protagonist has a very natural style and expresses both resistance and vulnerability. Torie Tyson is hilarious as the funeral employee. The other actors as a whole did an exemplary job. One wonders whether the two brothers and their respective partners will end up having an enjoyable meal together.The story is very ambiguous, but this ambivalent aspect of the film makes the story believable and captivates the viewer. The writer highly recommends this film for anyone who questions the wobbly nature of family, friendships and intimate relations.