Married and Counting

Married and Counting is an engaging, thought-provoking, and heartwarming documentary released in 2013, directed by Allan Piper. The film stars Patrick Cronen, Pat Dwyer, and Vince Gatton, each of whom brings their unique flair to create an enriching experience for the audience.

The film focuses on the real-life journey of an endearing couple, Pat Dwyer and Stephen Mosher. Having been devoted partners for over 25 years, they decide to commemorate their silver anniversary in an unusual and highly symbolic way. They set out to get married in every state in America where same-sex marriage is legal. This audacious decision sets them on an enlightening journey across the country, where they explore the challenging and sometimes contradictory landscape of same-sex marriage, both legally and socially.

This travelogue-style documentary gives the audience insights not just into the lives of the two protagonists, but also into the broader issues surrounding same-sex marriage, and by extension, LGBTQ+ rights, as they exist across the United States. The film invites the viewer on this intimate journey filled with love, laughter, and the occasional tear, as it examines the legal, social, and cultural elements of its arc.

Working as a fascinating biographical piece, the movie covers moments from the couple's initial meeting to their present-day relationship. Patrick Cronen is spot-on in his performance, exemplifying the emotional subtleties of the roles, while Vince Gatton provides the much needed comic relief, balancing the film’s serious themes.

The definite charm of this film lies in its storytelling approach. Married and Counting uses a combination of interviews, personal footage, and public records to illustrate the couple's 25-year-long love story. The couple's resolve to turn their silver anniversary into a powerful statement about love and equality is indeed inspiring.

Moreover, the film does not shy away from showcasing the adversities faced by the couple. The narrative delves into the juxtaposition of widespread joyous acceptance at some locations against the more challenging receptions at others. The documentary's exploration of these experiences underscores the lack of uniformity in public sentiment and legislation related to same-sex marriage throughout the United States.

The movie, however, isn't completely dominated by serious tones. The humor brought about by the couple’s interactions, sometimes goofy, always loving, and their obvious chemistry, adds warmth and relatability. Vince Gatton’s performance, in particular, contributes to this comic relief.

Married and Counting also takes on an educational role by bypassing sensationalism and offering factual insights into the status of gay rights. The couple's encounters with different attitudes towards their relationship offer local perspectives on the larger issue, letting the audience grasp the profound impact of civil rights laws on personal lives.

As for the technical aspects, the use of authentic footage combined with professional cinematography provides an appealing visual narrative. The filmmakers navigate through intimate moments and public celebrations with equal dexterity, making the film aesthetically pleasing. The editing ensures that the narrative doesn't stagnate, capturing the excitement, anticipation, joy, and occasional disappointments experienced by the couple in their remarkable journey.

In conclusion, Married and Counting is a beautifully crafted portrayal of a tenacious love story set against the backdrop of the ongoing fight for same-sex marriage rights. The story humanizes the legal struggle and the social stigma by telling the tale of two people simply seeking the legal recognition they desire for their committed love. It's a poignant, engaging, and heartening film that takes viewers on a journey filled with love, laughter, hope, and a sobering dose of reality. It’s an exceptional documentary for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ rights, interpersonal relations, or even just an extraordinary tale of love and resilience.