Weekend (2011)
Heady but grounded in pragmatic reality, ecstatically romantic but marbled with melancholy, Andrew Haigh’s account of steamy hookup between two gay Nottingham men unfolds over 48 hours in what feels almost like real time.
Tom Cullen and Chris New’s performances are modulated with mutual desire to an unexpected emotional connection and wrenching acceptance of unaccommodating circumstances.
The loosely structured film boasts nakedly realistic sensitivity and unparalleled sexual candor, rarely seen in straight or gay films about first dates.
An intoxicating queer odyssey of great chemistry and terrible timing, capturing a brief but unforgettable encounter destined to spark a lifetime of wistful “what if…” reflections.
Haigh’s subsequent work in both film (45 Years, Lean on Pete) and TV (Looking) has confirmed him as one of the major new-generation talents to emerge from Britain.
