Like one of the other reviewers, I actually saw the film at the Palm Springs film festival. The concept was good, however the acting was terrible. I usually give gay films the benefit of the doubt, but this film was no more than one star even with a liberal grading scale. The idea of a spoof of a Doris Day Rock Hudson style movie was a good one: the idea that homosexuality is the norm and heterosexuality is the minority was inventive. They even tried to have the lighting you see in films of that era. They had some cute sight gags as well. The audience was polite but when it came time for the after film discussion, people ran out of the theater as soon as possible. I suspect many of the reviews that gave it a ten are fake.
9 Reviews
The previous reviews must have been fake.
rimac-17 January 2014
I just saw this movie at the Palm Springs International Film Festival and it was dreadfully boring. It was not funny, relevant, nor entertaining. The acting was atrocious and it made LGBT people look like buffoons. I heard little laughing during the movie, which was played to a packed theater. The applause at the end was polite at best. To compare this to a Doris Day & Rock Hudson movie is wrong. Has anyone connected to this movie ever watched a Doris Day & Rock Hudson movie? Doris & Rock were a match made in heaven on screen, despite their off screen differences. Sorry, I usually give gay movies 10 stars. But this was not worth my time nor money. If the above reviews weren't fake, what did I miss? Seriously.
Cleaver, creative idea, stylishly realized.
woolsey_ackerman-113 October 2013
A really clever, creative idea. Cleaver script. Stylishly realized. The film has wonderful art direction with attention to period details in sets, props, costumes, language, style, It is a stylistic homage to comedy film making of the early 1960's. It is a great approach to satirizing attitudes of the present gay world and present attitude to all relationships. The rather stilted dialog, so appropriate to the period is delivered with complete commitment by the excellent cast making the entire premise believable. It opens with a wonderful old fashioned title sequence with a fun vocal number. The entire talented company knows how to evoke the period, and at the same time comment on what is wrong with today's attitudes. It is so refreshing to see a gay themed film, which is not only a fine comedy but that also addresses issues and attitudes of all relationships in a film that really has universal appeal.
Charming, funny, a film of ideas
cscottwilkerson8 October 2013
The world is beautiful, strange, and upside down. Nowhere is this more evident than in Dan Steadman's retro-postmodern-screwball counter-factual comedy: the 1960s spun on the axis of an alternate universe in which things are decidedly "straightforward" but not always clear. As an exploration of the often-puzzling rules informing sexual politics and racial identity, this film is both a wildly-inventive, Topsy-Turvy critique of our culture and a sweetly resonant argument for personal freedom. Steadman's writing, like his cinematic vision, is stylized, smart, and deeply humane. With its witty direction, splendid cast, and knowing score, we discover something extraordinary hidden in the hills: the limitless possibilities for human grace and the transformative power of love. These are indeed ideas that everyone can come out and embrace!
A 1960's-style comedy satire of racism, homophobia and more.
lancecoach6 October 2013
Imaginatively conceived, cleverly written, competently acted, well directed, funny, colorful, and -- true to the era -- no bad language. Also no violence. A simple "boy-gets-boy" plot with a complicating "girls wants boy but that's a 'no-no'" twist. Excellent score evokes Henry Mancini. Deliberately makes fun of early 60's film characteristics such as bad rear screen, flat lighting, and split-screen phone chats. All in all, some good laughs and a message that's as important and relevant in this day of same-sex marriage as it would have been in the Sixties for mixed race relationships. Reminds one of the excellent early 60's Ossie Davis/Ruby Dee race relations comedy "Purlie Victorious" (aka "Gone are the Days.") Kudos to Executive Producer Ted Trent for the idea and the funding; and to Director/Writer Dan Steadman for bringing the idea to life. I understand this team is working on more films. Good.
Clever, fun, witty, highly recommended. .
Daninesty12 October 2013
My 17 year old daughter and I saw this film together. We both loved it--especially the plot concept, the costumes, the music and the sets. The plot is clever and creative. It is carried out well--through both the writing and the acting. The characters are real. I felt empathy for the situation of the two main characters. I found myself really caring at how or if their situation would resolve. I loved all the sets and period furnishings and costumes. They were so authentic and colorful. They added to the upbeat mood of the film. At times, it was quite funny. We found ourselves laughing out loud several times. It is an eye opening, feel good, fun film. Very clever!!!
Hidden Hills - The best comedy of 2013!
drew-810-1187206 October 2013
Hidden Hills is the best comedy that I've seen all year. Its set in the 1960's and is reminiscent of Doris Day/Rock Hudson films. Great writing and direction. Every scene moves the story ahead so there is no filler. A story about marriage, acceptance and love. Jane Wiedlin from the Go-Go's appears in the film singing a song she wrote called, "Men". Its also used in the Title sequence.
The Cinematography is lush and is "Filmed in Glorious Color" as the titles in the beginning of the film announce. Its just great to look at. The acting is spot-on throughout. There are so many jokes that you have to see this movie several times to catch all of them. I saw this at my local theater and the crowd was laughing non-stop. The Set Decoration and Costumes were actual vintage from the 1960's and were extremely well thought-out. Great film for everyone. A must see!
The Cinematography is lush and is "Filmed in Glorious Color" as the titles in the beginning of the film announce. Its just great to look at. The acting is spot-on throughout. There are so many jokes that you have to see this movie several times to catch all of them. I saw this at my local theater and the crowd was laughing non-stop. The Set Decoration and Costumes were actual vintage from the 1960's and were extremely well thought-out. Great film for everyone. A must see!
If you are for tolerance or want to understand a different view
LauraHope00717 October 2013
Warning: Spoilers
I am going to try to right this without being a spoiler but I have to say that this film turns the whole gay intolerance and straight issue on its head. Imagine a world where dating the same gender or race were wrong. Im a straight female and I have experienced prejudice because people assume I am gay because I love acting, and because I would prefer not a gay man, but one who has EMPATHY for others. Which is not something we are teaching in a society driven so much by money and career and pushing people to chose the course that makes the most money instead of choosing the course that gives the most gratification in the heart department.
I've experienced prejudice myself for being a straight woman by people in the gay community. Just the other day I was on an escalator and someone stopped it, not me, but a group of gay guys turned around and said the bitch stopped it looking right at me, the token white girl at the bottom of the escalator. They did not think it was the attractive athelic blond guy also standing at the end of the escalator.
This film makes you think how odd our view of the world is, or perhaps it turns the gay questions of prejudice around so you see how odd it is from their view. How ignorant is it that to prove you are not prejudice you would have to date someone of another race or well be seen as strange for your own choices where love is concerned. And don't assume that those choices means love does not exist or standards of decency and also well loyalty don't exist either. We live in a world where well you can be a louse to someone gay, straight, or what ever you are. Love is found in making choices to be with a person on the grounds of friendship, trust, respect, and well watch the film.
I give it a nine only because I wish they had the budget to go all the way with the quality of the recording and picture. the sound seemed way to loud or well it was off to me. The quality of the film also is taped to appear very 1960s but then maybe that was the intent. It was funny but then I have made film and I kind of kept thinking I wanted to fix it in post, also I did watch it on you tube.
I should also add I know Stephen Foster who is in the cast, so I may be biased.
I've experienced prejudice myself for being a straight woman by people in the gay community. Just the other day I was on an escalator and someone stopped it, not me, but a group of gay guys turned around and said the bitch stopped it looking right at me, the token white girl at the bottom of the escalator. They did not think it was the attractive athelic blond guy also standing at the end of the escalator.
This film makes you think how odd our view of the world is, or perhaps it turns the gay questions of prejudice around so you see how odd it is from their view. How ignorant is it that to prove you are not prejudice you would have to date someone of another race or well be seen as strange for your own choices where love is concerned. And don't assume that those choices means love does not exist or standards of decency and also well loyalty don't exist either. We live in a world where well you can be a louse to someone gay, straight, or what ever you are. Love is found in making choices to be with a person on the grounds of friendship, trust, respect, and well watch the film.
I give it a nine only because I wish they had the budget to go all the way with the quality of the recording and picture. the sound seemed way to loud or well it was off to me. The quality of the film also is taped to appear very 1960s but then maybe that was the intent. It was funny but then I have made film and I kind of kept thinking I wanted to fix it in post, also I did watch it on you tube.
I should also add I know Stephen Foster who is in the cast, so I may be biased.
What a refreshing film.
theodore-1318818 December 2023
Film Review: "Hidden Hills" Starring Ted Trent
"Hidden Hills" is a delightful film that effortlessly combines humor and thought-provoking storytelling. Directed by an emerging talent and featuring the brilliant Ted Trent, this movie offers a refreshing and enjoyable cinematic experience.
From the opening scene, "Hidden Hills" sets the tone for a comedic journey that keeps the audience engaged throughout. Ted Trent's performance as the lead character is nothing short of exceptional. His comedic timing and ability to effortlessly connect with the audience make him a true standout in the film.
What makes "Hidden Hills" truly memorable is its ability to go beyond mere laughs and delve into deeper themes. The thought-provoking elements woven into the storyline add layers of depth and substance. The film raises questions about life's purpose, human connection, and the pursuit of happiness, leaving the viewers contemplating long after the credits roll.
The screenplay is well-crafted, providing a perfect balance between humorous moments and more introspective scenes. The witty dialogue and clever one-liners keep the audience entertained while also delivering insightful messages. The supporting cast deserves praise for their impeccable performances, adding to the overall charm of the film.
Visually, "Hidden Hills" is a treat for the eyes. The picturesque setting of the hidden hills themselves serves as a backdrop that enhances the storytelling. The cinematography captures the beauty of the surroundings and complements the emotional beats of the narrative.
The film's pacing is consistent, never losing momentum and holding the audience's attention from start to finish. The humor is cleverly interwoven with the underlying themes, creating a well-rounded and engaging experience.
In conclusion, "Hidden Hills" is a must-see movie that seamlessly blends humor and thought-provoking storytelling. Ted Trent's exceptional performance, combined with a well-crafted screenplay and beautiful visuals, make this film a true gem. It will leave you entertained, uplifted, and with a renewed appreciation for the power of laughter and introspection.
"Hidden Hills" is a delightful film that effortlessly combines humor and thought-provoking storytelling. Directed by an emerging talent and featuring the brilliant Ted Trent, this movie offers a refreshing and enjoyable cinematic experience.
From the opening scene, "Hidden Hills" sets the tone for a comedic journey that keeps the audience engaged throughout. Ted Trent's performance as the lead character is nothing short of exceptional. His comedic timing and ability to effortlessly connect with the audience make him a true standout in the film.
What makes "Hidden Hills" truly memorable is its ability to go beyond mere laughs and delve into deeper themes. The thought-provoking elements woven into the storyline add layers of depth and substance. The film raises questions about life's purpose, human connection, and the pursuit of happiness, leaving the viewers contemplating long after the credits roll.
The screenplay is well-crafted, providing a perfect balance between humorous moments and more introspective scenes. The witty dialogue and clever one-liners keep the audience entertained while also delivering insightful messages. The supporting cast deserves praise for their impeccable performances, adding to the overall charm of the film.
Visually, "Hidden Hills" is a treat for the eyes. The picturesque setting of the hidden hills themselves serves as a backdrop that enhances the storytelling. The cinematography captures the beauty of the surroundings and complements the emotional beats of the narrative.
The film's pacing is consistent, never losing momentum and holding the audience's attention from start to finish. The humor is cleverly interwoven with the underlying themes, creating a well-rounded and engaging experience.
In conclusion, "Hidden Hills" is a must-see movie that seamlessly blends humor and thought-provoking storytelling. Ted Trent's exceptional performance, combined with a well-crafted screenplay and beautiful visuals, make this film a true gem. It will leave you entertained, uplifted, and with a renewed appreciation for the power of laughter and introspection.
See also
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