Undertow (2009)
Homosexuals & Ghosts...(as deep a male love story ever shown us)....
30 May 2012
....Society....and our Communities tell us: "You've not a Ghost of a Chance."

(( When Society, families, others close by and, sadly, even ourselves keep us from being who we are supposed to be...from loving the person we are supposed to love...then we've allowed ourselves to be screwed (and, yes, I'm talking about me...and, likely, some of you). And every now and again, to remind us of this, as happens in this tale, there will come some sign or object...perhaps as simple as a "Candle"...which mysteriously appears in our lives, causing us to recall what we've lost ))

(( Have you ever thought...or said to a Beloved: "Without you, there is Nothing?" If yes, then you were foretelling a major theme of this film ))

A married, coastal fisherman (Miguel) as our main lead, and an unattached, visiting artist (Santiago) are the focus of this passionate love story between 2 men, spanning youth into adulthood. We'll learn this affair has a likely background of boys spending summers together...of fun times...and, no doubt, moments of finding love with one another. Sadly, however, this is a film focusing on their current day relationship which, like that of Romeo & Juliet, is being thwarted in almost every way.

So, for now, we find ourselves watching and becoming absorbed in an extremely impassioned--though well hidden--love affair. With nearly every scene involving these two leads, our view of the intensity of their love for one another continues to be reinforced, as the film makes its way to a heart-rending conclusion. Of hundreds of such films in my possession, none surpass the realistic displays of love and affection given us by these actors...this director. And in watching this story play out, it becomes oh so obvious that, while Miguel deeply cares for his pregnant wife, it is Santiago who is the "Great Love" of his life. We see a relationship which has even reached the point of loving "endearment names" being used for one another (Miguel as "Mico" / Santiago is "Tiago"), not to mention our witnessing numerous scenes of closeness--erotic and otherwise.

Some final thoughts: You will come to see theirs as an "Everlasting Love". And you will witness pure joy in something as simple as a hand-in-hand stroll....and sadness as stirring as a loving hand against cheek. Happy emotions deep enough to hit you in the gut....but also sadness...tears...loss. If you're not ashamed of crying, you will probably do so. This is a movie of lessons for many of we viewers, importantly telling us that letting go of a love, even one we may have at times denied, is an impossibility. It is an especially apt reminder...if we are to live a truthful future life (just watch as our main lead resolves his truth during a heartbreaking moment with his wife near film's end).

PS--Watch for a young, fellow fisherman, Tano by name, who I often see lending support when most others don't, and taking a definite interest in our beleaguered Miguel. See where he positions himself in at least one group gathering....notice where his eyes flicker in scenes involving Miguel. Ah, who knows if he is a possible harbinger for Miguel's future and whether, in this man, "Mico" will find the solace and warmth he now so desperately needs. (Am I dreaming this up? You decide.)

****
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