Cert 15
94 mins
BBFC advice: Strong language
Oh, how the critics have applauded Ira Sachs' Love Is Strange but as Mrs W and I sat watching it in Derby Quad, I couldn't help wondering why.
The truth is that I was so bored I was dropping off.
Much of the acclaim has been for the performances of John Lithgow and Alfred Molina who play gay couple, Ben and George.
In real life Lithgow and Molina are married to women, so, presumably, they had to act gay.
I can't think that this was that much of push. Aside of the odd peck on the cheek and moments in which they hold hands, the sexuality of the characters isn't particularly obvious.
Admittedly, however, it is central to the plot because their marriage, after 39 years together, prompts a Catholic school to fire George from his job as a music teacher.
This causes a financial crisis which means they cannot afford their apartment and have to stay with well-meaning friends and relatives - separately.
This causes the two men anxiety although they stoically try to put up with the chaos which surrounds them at each of their temporary homes.
And that's about it. Not a lot happens in Love Is Strange and yet it is one of a rash of current movies which are hailed for their subtleties.
I accept that Molina and Lithgow are in good form but both have great track records so it was no surprise to me. In fact, I didn't think they were stretched.
Director Ira Sachs: Love Is Strange is about the ways we learn to live – how we are taught and who teaches us. How does the Church teach us about love; how does a piano teacher teach us about music: how does an artist help us see: how do movies teach us who we are, and what love, strange and beautiful, can look like?
Reasons to watch: Its fine acting and pathos
Reasons to avoid: Not enough happens
Laughs: a couple of chuckles
Jumps: none
Vomit: none
Nudity: none
Overall rating: 4.5/10