HOLDING THE MAN
An endearing love story based on the memoirs of Tim Conigrave, which centres on two teenagers who met in a catholic boy’s high school in Melbourne in the 1970’s, and their romance which kindled a fifteen year relationship.
This heart-breaking story deals with the prejudice and disapproval Tim Conigrave (Ryan Corr) and John Caleo (Craig Scott) experienced and the promiscuity which led to their ultimate battle with aids.
Corr delivers an intense and highly emotional performance showcasing his versatility as an actor, supported by veteran actors Anthony La Paglia, Guy Pierce and Geoffrey Rush who complement the production and increase the marketability of the film.
Highly graphic nudity and sex scenes are essential to the story, but don’t deviate from the sensitivity of the subject matter.
This triumphant cautionary tale of hurt, hope and tragedy will have audiences laughing one minute and crying the next, and is one of Australia’s finest films in recent years. (MMo)
****1/2
