Dream On

By: Hackney

I caught this film at it's Hackney Picture House screening earlier this year in England. It was a refreshing change for me, not being a fan of gay films of recent years, this film surprised and touched me. The thing that stood out for me in this film was the theme of dysfunction attracting dysfunction something quite prevalent in the undercurrents of this comedy drama, it felt honest, I could see why these boys were attracted to each other, I was rooting for there almost tragic romance, they felt relatable and real. There's also something quite raw about it, it feels real like it's filmed in the 80's , the filmmaker has captured the time perfectly. It's feel good, it's dramatic and it's captivating. It's definitely the best gay film I've seen in a while. I hope it get's a stage production again some day would be great to see how the stage version differs to the film.

By: Amos Lassen

Paul (Bradley Cross) and George (Joe Gosling) are total opposites but share dreams of escaping where they are. They met on a campsite on northern Wales during the summer in 1988 and fall in love with each other. They swear to each other and make a pact that they will return the following summer and run away together and when the time comes, only Paul shows up. He enlists his best friend and together they go in search of George.

"Dream On" was originally written for the theater and the same boys who played Paul and George also do so in the film. Paul is from north England while George is from London and has the confidence that Paul doesn't. This is yet another British coming-of-age films that like is predecessors, "Beautiful Thing" and "Get Real" captures the vitality of youth on the road to discovery. There is also a third character who appears-Angharad (Emily Spowage), the daughter of the owner of the campsite who adds humor to the sensitive film.

When George does not come back to the campsite the following year, the film takes on the realities of being young and having dreams. Paul who is such an innocent boy tells the story and this is how we see it-through innocent eyes. There is just one major problem aside from Paul not being there and that is George's mother, Denise (Jane Bamford), who follows him back and she is overbearing. Denise is also a loving mother who is gay-friendly.

The campsite is near the Welsh seaport town of Towyn which is perfect for this small film which is completely realistic and vibrant. To say anymore would ruin the viewing experience for many so try to find out where you can see it. It will make you feel good and maybe even relive a part of your life.