Throuple

Relationships these days come in all shapes, sizes and forms. And, thankfully, there appears to be growing (albeit sometimes slow) acceptance of some of the newer alternatives. One of those that has been gaining ground in the LGBTQ+ community is the "triad" or "throuple," one made up of three individuals. But, as director Greyson Horst's debut feature shows, establishing such a relationship takes work, a great deal of commitment and a boatload of honesty. These arrangements are more than just experiments in fun and games if they're to succeed. At the same time, though, since they're so comparatively groundbreaking, there are also no hard and fast rules behind them, either. This leaves the door open to interpretation in determining what works for each trio. Such is the essence of this delightfully funny comedy-drama showcasing the experiences of a lonely New York singer-songwriter (Michael Doshier) who becomes unexpectedly involved with a married couple (Tommy Heleringer, Stanton Plummer-Cambridge) as their third. The three men enjoy an array of good times, a lot of hot sex (sensitive viewers be warned) and their share of emotionally challenging moments. However, the film also shows their courage to dare to try something different and something that suits their needs, regardless of what others may think. It also explores the soul-searching that they must undergo in determining what works best for each of them, for better or worse. In telling this story, the filmmaker has put together a charming, often-hilarious offering with inventive cinematography (particularly some of the best split screen segments, reaction shots and still photo montages I've ever seen) and a catchy soundtrack with a number of excellent original compositions. "Throuple" not only provides an insightful look into an alternative relationship option, but it also shows that it's possible to create a polished, engaging, entertaining film with innovative elements on an indie budget. Catch this one if you can. Like its principal characters, it's sure to keep bringing you back for more!

The topic of ménage à trois, or throuple, has inspired many films, including the famous Jules et Jim, but most of the illustrations are based on two men and a woman (anyone remembers Threesome, directed by Andrew Fleming?), and less often two women and a man. So what Throuple adds is an original contribution with a throuple made of three gay men.

But a throuple might hide another one: Michael is trying to find his voice and identify his desires with a married couple, but he has also been in a "relationship" with his best friend, Tristan, who is on the verge of getting engaged with Abby.

The film is then a double illustration of how often 3 becomes 2 + 1, or 2 against 1, and the dynamics of power confuse feelings and desires. Insecurity, jealousy, blurring the lines between love and friendship, partner and friend with benefits. The possibility of chaos is real, but sticking to the norms feels alienating.

The photography is audacious and inspired, I thought the split screen worked very well and that the Brooklyn vibe felt authentic. Nice soundtrack and uplifting ending. Rimbaud once wrote that "Love has to be reinvented", and it sounds like Throuple is a solid contribution to this workshop.