paultreloar75

I very much enjoyed this gentle tale of intrigue and murder most foul. It really reminded me of the world of Twin Peaks, where nothing is really what it seems and you can't be sure of who anyone is or why they do what they do. There are so many unspoken elements of the production, that you're still guessing about elements of the story when the curtain closes.

However, that to me in a movie isn't necessarily a problem because not everything in life is neat and tidy anyway. There is some great acting and lovely cinematography and a nice seam of rich dark humour running through the affair. Slow paced but no less good for that.

Sensuous and slow-moving examination of someone living something of a double life as a male escort and as an aspiring writer. There's an unstated ambivalence from the eponymous main character aka Max about which side of the line he's treading in terms of affection and employment which I found quite good and although it meanders a little, I enjoyed it mainly.

The lead performance is strong and the characters are believable and it was nice to see something that didn't descend into sickness and hands in the air horror at what you're watching take place. Also especially enjoyed that parts were filmed locally to where I live and there was a cheer when one scene incorporated the Rio Cinema which is where I watched it. A director to look out for sure in the future.

Wow, what an amazing movie this is. I love reading through other reviews and seeing what other people thought and I do wonder how many people need things spoon-fed to them. This story certainly doesn't do that and in a similar way to the events that have taken place within the context of the movie, there is a lack of certainty also as to what has actually happened and who has done what and to who but despite that uncertainty, what we do see more than enables us to form opinions and understand the deeper meaning. This incorporates nepotism and prejudice, power and corruption, moral ambiguity and turpitude as well as the well mentioned themes around the caste system and the class dynamics in a deeply divided country.

The performances are terrific and the cinematography places you into the dusty streets and buildings of India. It's an understated production which is perfectly realised and the main criticism I would have is that I found some of the subtitles a bit difficult to read.

The fact that the Indian government banned this movie adds resonance to the phrase used in the movie - there are two sorts of untouchables, those who no one wants to touch and those who cannot be touched. Obviously, this film touched some raw nerves and you really should go see why.