Tru Loved

I absolutely loved this movie!! (and it seemed that the rest of the audience did too from their reactions). Here they took a serious subject, - one that is certainly timely, currently facing much publicity and discussion; - a great problem for many, emotionally, politically, legally and more - a hot button issue and in the news at this time, - and they presented it with clarity, and in a very entertaining way. I was moved deeply by this movie, but also very entertained and laughed out loud many times. Both the story and acting were excellent - a little over the top at times, but it fit well. For many people this subject is a little over the top. This movie teaches, without our realizing we are being shown or taught, about strength of character, compassion, understanding, tolerance and love. The lead actress, who played Tru, was outstanding. She was so natural. It felt real. I highly recommend this movie; especially for young people. They will love it, and unknowingly grow as a person from it as well

Here's another film that had its heart in the right place, but unfortunately, terrible writing, direction and acting sink this piece of Cali cinematic garbage before it even begins. Stewart Walker is the culprit behind this mess. Walker needs to go back to writing school and learn how to construct a decent screenplay, then take courses in directing. 'Tru Love' centers around a family relocating from SF to a far more conservative town in what might be the San Fernando Valley of LA. The local high school is predictably homophobic and as a result, some of the more conscientious and open minded students organize a gay-straight alliance. This could have and should have been so much better if only had it been under more talented supervision. Predictability and cliches abound, as does plenty of homophobia on the part of the sadistic gym teacher/coach. This movie should be remade because valuable lessons can be learned here, but regrettably were lost somewhere in the sub mediocre dialogue. I rate Tru Loved 2 stars and 10 yawns!

I saw this a year or so ago and it was great. I've mentioned it to many friends and we've been watching for it in theaters or on DVD ever since. I understand it is coming out on DVD in January 2010. I wish it had been released before Christmas, I'd have given copies to my friends as gifts.

Seeing it in the theater was great because the audience reaction was fun and infectious. There was so much out loud laughing and other reactions that it made it comfortable to do so myself. Everyone around me seemed to enjoy it as much as I did. It was funny and sad and instructive and - I think, an important movie for people to see; especially in these times. I recommend it highly.

See it. You'll be glad you did.

I recently saw this at the Vancouver Queer Film Festival to an almost packed house. Tru Loved is the story of a teenage girl named Tru (short for Gertrude) who goes to a new school. Of course, she doesn't fit in at first, mainly because she is labeled as a "freak" by the popular crowd (ie. about 3 or 4 people) when she looks quite average actually. The twist here is that her she has two sets of parents -- two moms and two dads, of which they're all gay. This element proves to be refreshing and comedic at times.

However, when dealing with teenage themes, there are always going to be stereotypes and clichéd situations, especially when it comes to gay-themed films (ie. conservative parents, the anti-gay jocks). What set Juno apart from most other teenage films was the interesting and colourful characters. Tru, as the protagonist, first comes across as possibly interesting, but falls behind other major characters who have bigger problems than her.

In the beginning, she fantasizes about outlandish scenarios, which, instead of adding her to character, only seem like something the writer added in the hopes of making her interesting when it in fact strangely clashes with her somewhat bland personality. She meets and befriends Lo, who turns out to be gay, and is reluctantly becomes his "girlfriend". This and other events happen TO her, and after a while, it is clear she doesn't have any particular goal but merely follows other subplots and guides people, which was frustrating at times. In fact, the entire film felt more like Lo's story rather than hers.

This isn't to say that the film wasn't entertaining. A few great punchlines kept the audience roaring with laughter (as much as I want to, I can't repeat it. Go see it for yourself). The acting decent, the direction alright, the budget noticeably small but overlooked, Tru Loved is a good second film from Stewart Wade, but don't take it too seriously as real life.

I think many people do not take a chance and find out the truth for themselves. In regard to movies, they depend on reviewers to take the chance and do the work for them. Doing so gives power to reviewers, which is an evil thing. Those very people who give away their rights will think that, since Roger Ebert dismissed 'Tru Loved', it is not a good movie and will not go to the trouble of finding out for themselves. And this confirms their prejudices and makes them feel secure.

'Tru Loved' is a very good movie indeed. So why did he dismiss it? Why dismiss a movie that deals wisely with two of the most difficult aspects of human relationships, sex and race, in an entertaining and unifying way. That has a fine story. That has excellent acting which is natural and convincing (Najarra Townsend, as 'Tru', is inspiring). That has the priceless effect on the audience of goodwill and fellowship. That is pure and genuine.

Why dismiss such a terrific movie? I think the reason is that Mr. Ebert did not give the movie a chance to unfold. As a result, he missed the whole point of 'Tru Loved'--which is human unity. Then, in response to criticism, he went back and justified his position, still missing the point.

Why did he miss the point that 'Tru Loved' is about human unity? Because of unconscious fears, distaste or antagonism? Because of physical illness? Because it reminded him of other movies he didn't like? Because it didn't taste like his cup of tea? Who knows why?

Personally, I love 'Tru Loved'! I think it is a marvelous movie! I recommend it to all my friends.

That's my review. But don't take my word for it, find out for yourself.