Save Me

Save Me is a powerful and thought-provoking drama that takes a deep dive into the world of conversion therapy and the varying views on homosexuality within different communities and cultures. Directed by Robert Cary and written by Robert Desiderio, this emotionally charged drama showcases the struggle between belief, identity, love, and acceptance.

The movie revolves around Mark, an affable yet troubled gay man portrayed by Chad Allen. Mark is a drug addict and lives a purposeless life, engaging in reckless behaviours and loose encounters, which eventually leads to a drug overdose. This near-fatal incident forces Mark's financially well-off, devoutly Christian life partner, Scott, played by Robert Gant, to take drastic measures in a desperate effort to save Mark from himself.

Hoping to jolt Mark out of his destructive lifestyle, Scott sends him to Genesis House, a Christian retreat and refuge home led by the earnest but naive couple Gayle and Ted. These characters, played brilliantly by Judith Light and Stephen Lang, respectively, dedicate themselves to curing 'sexual brokenness' and help their volunteers lead a life respecting what they perceive to be God's will.

Throughout the film, Mark grapples with his newfound environment that is substantially different from the life he was once accustomed to. He questions his own identity and sexuality against the backdrop of fervent religious belief at Genesis. His struggle is increasingly highlighted through his interactions with other characters, each dealing with their own dilemmas about homosexuality and faith.

The movie, through its bold narrative, subtly invites the audience to question their own beliefs about homosexuality, spirituality, and mercy. The love shown by Gayle and Ted might seem questionable to many, but it paints an honest picture of their commitment to what they consider as God's path to salvation. The film treads the delicate line of bias without taking a definitive side, thereby encouraging viewers to join in the ongoing conversation towards understanding the subject better.

Save Me, too, tackles the complexities of identity and self-worth. Mark, despite his troubled past, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance throughout the film. After years of addiction and self-deprecation, he learns to acknowledge his worth and stands up for himself. His transformation makes up the emotional core of the film.

The performances throughout the film are commendable. Chad Allen, in particular, stands out with his heartfelt portrayal of Mark, conveying both the character's vulnerability and resilience with unreserved sincerity. Judith Light, as the determined and loving Gayle, is set apart by her intense performance that carefully maintains a balance between expressing Gayle's faith-driven desire to guide and the dawning realization of biased error.

On technical aspects, Robert Cary showcases skilful storytelling by maintaining a steady narrative pace. The film strikes a balanced tone – neither overly melancholic nor frivolously hopeful. Cinematographer Rodney Taylor, meanwhile, captures the introspective nature of the narrative through careful framing and thoughtful use of light, inviting the viewer to further delve into the characters' emotional states.

Save Me is a notable film about homosexuality and religion. It does an excellent job portraying the torment of a gay man who joins a conversion therapy program and the ensuing drama that sparks internal change within the people around him. It avoids stereotyping and extremism, instead using empathy to expose the misconceptions both parties hold about each other.

This movie is a must-watch if you're interested in thoughtful films about human connection, religious bias, and the struggle for self-acceptance. Save Me challenges its viewers' convictions and sympathies without any strident advocacy for or against the characters' individual beliefs. Its narrative asks onlookers to emerge from their comfort zones and broadens the building blocks of conversation around queer identity, faith, and acceptance. It is a heartening exploration of life, love, and the varying shades of faith.