Weekend Review: Realistic Yet Romantic Chamber Piece

Weekend is shot bare. There’s no musical score nor fancy cinematography. It’s straightforward and the settings are modest. Even when the characters visit a gay club is not the stereotypical hangout that’s often portrayed in films.

These directorial choices put the focus on the two leading characters. It pulls the movie down into an ordinary world of an average gay male, rather than show a stereotypical flamboyant world of the sassy gay friend.

The two characters are nuanced and handsome, but not perfectly built. They have that couple next door vibe, which makes them relatable. The film is mostly about the two talking. They discuss their personal lives and homosexuality without being preachy. As they discover more about each other, their distinct personality surfaces. As a result, they both end up questioning each other’s identity.

Russell is the brooding and solitary type who’s not completely out and wants permanence. Glen, on the other hand, is an outspoken and defiant artist who prefers to reinvent himself every chance he gets. Their relationship develops naturally over the course of two days. When the sex scene finally happens, it doesn’t feel forced, contrived, or staged for shock value.

The two characters are portrayed well by the actors, whose connection feels natural. The film also portrays casual prejudice that happens in real life.

All these elements combine into a chamber piece that provides a universal theme that everyone can relate to. It’s not about homosexuality. It’s a simple, honest love story about how the briefest encounter can make the biggest impact.