Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
Eismayer is a drama about a closeted army sergeant who falls in love with a new recruit. It’s based on a true story.
Sergeant Major Charles Eismayer (Gerhard Liebmann) has the well-earned reputation of being a brutal drill sergeant in the Australian army. Although he’s a closeted gay man, he’s been able to hide behind his hypermasculine persona and marriage to a woman to dispel rumors about his homosexuality.
When openly gay recruit, Mario Falak (Luka Dimić), joins the ranks, the other recruits have a difficult time accepting him. Although they harass him, Falak is secure enough with himself to stand up to them. Soon his persistence in not backing down to the other men and his ability to meet Eismayer’s rigorous demands slowly wins them over.
As Eismayer watches Falak interact with the other soldiers, he becomes attracted to him and begins to question his own closeted life.
Some Thoughts:
Eismayer is an engrossing film that goes for realism over drama. Its focus is on Eismayer’s internal struggle with his closeted existence, which comes about due to his romantic feelings towards Falak. Because of this, there’s a good amount of angst along with some romance.
While the entire cast give fine performances, it’s Leibmann who carries the movie. His portrayal of a man grappling with living a lie of his own construction is spot on. His inner turmoil is palpable as is his desire for Falak.
Dimić’s depiction of Falak is seamless and rings true; and he and Leibmann have more than enough chemistry to heat up the screen. There’s plenty of sexual tension between them, and the sex is passionate and intense.
The only part of the story that could use further exploration is when Falak outs himself. The fallout is understandable, as is the resolution, but it all happens a bit quick. One more scene between Falak and the other recruits would have helped. Because everything else about the movie is spot on, this one flaw doesn’t ruin it.
The Final Verdict:
Eismayer is a finely tuned film based on a real-life romance. If you get a chance to see it, don’t pass it up.
