Sebastian is a heartfelt coming-of-age gay romance film directed and co-written by James Fanizza. Set in Toronto, the movie tells the story of two men, Sebastian and Alex, who fall in love with each other after a one-night stand. Sebastian is a charming, artistic, and somewhat lost young man who is trying to find his place in the world. He meets Alex, a handsome and successful lawyer who recently ended a long-term relationship, in a bar. Despite their different backgrounds and life goals, the two men feel a deep connection and decide to spend the night together.
The morning after, Sebastian wakes up next to Alex and realizes that he has feelings for him. He is fearless and determined to pursue Alex despite his insecurities, while Alex is hesitant and afraid of getting hurt again. As they learn more about each other, they face challenges and obstacles that threaten their relationship.
The main focus of the movie is the relationship between the two men and the emotional journey they go through. The filmmaker avoids stereotypes and presents a realistic portrayal of gay relationships, with all its ups and downs. The movie beautifully captures the tender moments between the two characters and their struggle to connect on a deeper level. The chemistry between Alex House (who plays Sebastian) and James Fanizza (who also stars as Alex) is palpable, and their performances are honest and understated.
The movie's supporting characters are also well-crafted and add depth to the story. Katya Zamolodchikova (best known for her appearance on RuPaul's Drag Race) plays the role of Lexi, Sebastian's best friend, and adds a touch of humor to the movie. She is flamboyant, witty and fiercely loyal to Sebastian. There is also the character of Ben, Alex's ex-boyfriend, who wants to get back together with Alex and is willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen. Ben's character brings conflict and tension to the movie, and his portrayal by Brent Everett is convincing.
The movie's soundtrack is another highlight. The film features a mix of indie and electronic music that complements the mood and atmosphere of the movie. The music conveys the emotions of the characters and adds another layer to their story.
Overall, Sebastian is a touching and poignant movie that explores the complexities of love, intimacy and self-discovery. The movie succeeds in portraying gay relationships with sensitivity and authenticity, without resorting to clichés or stereotypes. The movie is a must-see for anyone who enjoys romantic dramas, coming-of-age stories or LGBTQ+ movies.
Note: The movie contains nudity, sexual content, and drug use. It may not be suitable for younger audiences.
Sebastian is a 2018 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.
