Straightman

Straightman, directed by Ben Berkowitz, is a 1999 indie drama that catalyzes a sensitive, enigmatic exploration of friendship, identity, and sexuality. Set against a backdrop of Chicago's low rent stand-up comedy spots and bars, the film invites us into the world of two friend's Dave and Jack, played by Ben Redgrave and Ben Berkowitz respectively, who see their relationship uncoil as hidden truths and desires are laid bare.

Dave, an amateur stand-up comedian, and Jack, a hard-drinking construction worker, are two best friends sharing a disillusioned existence in Chicago. They live together in an apartment, not out of any romantic involvement, but a product of their shared struggles. Their relationship is the quintessential representation of the "bromance" - they hang out together, drink together, and support each other - all while navigating the grey skyline and gritty tourists' spots of Chicago.

The dynamics of their friendship are portrayed with an honest intensity by both Berkowitz and Redgrave, delineating a unique portrait of masculine camaraderie that is seldom celebrated within mainstream cinema. However, Straightman is far from a simple friendship tale. It brilliantly treads into the nuances of human identity, particularly sexuality and its influence on personal relationships. But do not mistake it for a cliché "coming out" movie. It deftly captures the complexity and unpredictability of human emotions without succumbing to stereotyped anecdotes.

One of the critical strengths of this film lies in its portrayal of Jack. Ben Berkowitz produces an engaging performance, adding layers of vulnerability, confusion, and angst to the character that goes beyond the bravado of a stereotypical blue-collar worker. The film takes Jack on a self-reflecting journey after a sudden revelation, compelling him to question his identity, sexuality, and deeper feelings for Dave. His struggle between denial and acceptance forms a pivotal narrative in the film, challenging societal norms and pre-set definitions concerning sexuality.

Simultaneously, Dave's character, delivered immaculately by Ben Redgrave, is an engaging study in contrast. Delivering his role with an effortless charm, Dave carries his baggage of failed romantic relationships, a struggling career, and a relentless drinking problem. His life becomes more complicated when confronted with Jack's struggle, forcing him to reassess their friendship and his own emotional veracity.

Rachel Tamayo, in her turn as Maria, is a breath of fresh air in the testosterone-fueled narrative. Her layered portrayal of Maria, a bartender who becomes a figure pivotal in exposing the conflicts and uncertainties of Jack and Dave, is enchanting and provides a soft balance to the otherwise gritty emotional voyage. She provides a compelling female perspective, helping the viewer understand the crucial subtext in Jack and Dave's relationship and the complex nature of human emotions.

Complementing the engaging performances is the beautifully candid cinematography that captures Chicago in all its raw and gritty glory, further amplifying the honest authenticity at the heart of the narrative. The city becomes a silent character in the narrative, its understated beauty lending a realistic backdrop to Jack and Dave's journey.

Director Ben Berkowitz does an exemplary job of weaving this emotional tapestry, ensuring that Straightman doesn't fall into the traps of conventionality. The intelligent screenplay refrains from over-sentimentality or overt melodrama. Instead, it focuses on capturing the raw emotions and the quiet turmoil pervading its lead characters, thereby enhancing the film's appeal.

Straightman is not just a movie about self-realization or acceptance; it’s a profound exploration of the many layers that make up human relationships. It is a tribute to the depth and complexity of love – in all its forms and manifests. The movie breathes life into the quintessential adage – 'love has no gender' and does so in a subtly powerful way.

Given all the nuances it packs in, Straightman is not just a film; it's an experience that grows on you, making you question, comprehend and empathize with the characters’ journey. So, if you’re looking for an indie drama that refuses to follow the norms and instead, offers raw, real, and relatable content, Straightman is that gem from 1999 that you shouldn't miss out on.