This is easily one of the most powerful films I have ever seen in my life. I rented it without knowing a thing about it, and was absolutely knocked out the first time I saw it. I plunked down the rather high purchase price immediately, and felt that it was worth every penny. Since then I have watched it a dozen times, and have shown it to many friends, virtually all of who were as moved as I was. It is not for the squeamish, and should only be viewed by those who like their drama earthy, raw and real. The situations are stark, and make for very uncomfortable viewing. The drama and suspense are almost unbearable, and in more than was spot I found myself extremely shaken, and absolutely in tears. Upon it's release, Vito Russo, gay film historian and author of The Celluloid Closet said, "Not just the best gay film I've seen this year, it's the best film I've seen this year". There is a scene where the film student overhears the vivid, horrible abuse of the 14-year-old boy, recorded secretly by the victim, and left on the student’s answering machine. This scene alone was one of the most touching, vivid and haunting moments I've ever experienced in a film. I felt every bit of the characters anguish and frustration. Granted, the acting is amateurish in spots, and the production values make a cheap 70's porno film look like something by Cecil B. DeMille, but the black and white photography and jumpy camera work just ass to the feel of realism. The dramatic content and genuine suspense kept me riveted to my seat from beginning to end. I have a film collection that includes over 200 gay DVD titles, and over 100 gay VHS titles, and it will be a happy day for my collection when someone sees fit to release this gem on DVD.

This film, with bad acting of the stars, a story with no credibility and some awful taste pictures of abuse almost made me puke, don't bother see it even if they pay you! I was is a shock for a couple of days... all thumbs down for "Abuse"