Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
After Louie is a drama about an older gay man making a documentary about his deceased partner’s battle with AIDS.
Sam (Alan Cumming) is an artist whose lover, William (David Drake), passed away from AIDS complications twenty years ago. Unable to let go of the past, Sam has put his life on hold to work on a film documenting William’s struggle with AIDS and their work with groups like ACT UP.
One night, while at a bar, he picks up a younger man, Braeden (Zachary Booth), thinking he’s a hustler. They have sex, and when Sam pays him, Braeden explains that he’s not a sex worker. Braeden keeps the money, and Sam asks if he can call him again. Braeden says it will be fine, then leaves.
As Sam gets to know Braeden via their sexual encounters, he’s forced to deal with his anger at a younger generation who take for granted the freedom he and William fought so hard for them to have. He also struggles with obtaining photographs and film of William from friends who aren’t on board with his project.
Some Thoughts:
After Louie is a thought-provoking film that is adequately made. The acting has a lot to be desired, but the theme and script are good enough to hold your interest and give you something to think about. Also, it’s not all black and white/good and bad, which is refreshing.
The movie deals with the narcissistic side of art. Sam views his project as his desire to give William’s life meaning, while others see it as a selfish act to control and define William’s memory. Although the film doesn’t take sides, it’s this narcissism that drives much of what Sam does, from acting up at an art exhibit to forcing his political views on other people. Sam can only see the world through his eyes and is shocked when everybody doesn’t see it his way. And it’s this aspect of the film that makes it worth seeing.
Director Vincent Gagliostro does a good job making a movie with a low budget. Sam’s life isn’t glamourized, and although most of the film is realistic, there is a scene near the end when two men take a bath during a party that is laughable.
The Final Verdict:
After Louie is a flawed film, but it is thought provoking. While the pacing and acting could be better, it’s well intentioned and was made with heart.