Two Gentlemen Sharing

Two Gentlemen Sharing is a relatively obscure yet, in many ways, pioneering British film released in 1969. Directed by Ted Kotcheff, the film stars Robin Phillips, Judy Geeson, and Ester Anderson, and tackles the then-relevant social issues of race relations and class dynamics within the United Kingdom.

The plot of the film centers around the intersection of the lives of two men, who despite being different by nature - one is a wealthy white advertising executive (Roddy), played by Robin Phillips, and the other, a successful black lawyer (John), portrayed by Hal Frederick - find a bridge of common understanding and begin to share a flat owing to their respective personal circumstances.

Phillips' character, Roddy, is a scion of the British upper class and embodies the disoriented state of the "Swinging Sixties" and reflects their existential angst and feelings of rootlessness. Judy Geeson portrays his estranged girlfriend just emerging from the free love culture of that era.

On the other hand, John, originally from the West Indies, has his own set of challenges as he navigates the racially charged environment of London during that period, considering a marriage to Jane (Ester Anderson) who, like him, is a West Indian immigrant.

The movie is an intriguing exploration of the complex issues of race, class, love, professional success, and personal identity within a rapidly changing society. Despite their societal and racial differences, these two men initiate a shared living arrangement in a high-end London flat, thus the title, "Two Gentlemen Sharing."

After moving in together, their shared experiences and conflicting issues brought about by the prejudices and biases in late 1960s British society, forge a bond between them. Each one's struggle becomes the other's struggle as well putting forth a human commentary on racism, social class, and the very human need for acceptance and belonging.

The film is notably innovative for its time in highlighting and addressing the topic of racial discrimination and prejudice. And though the film addresses serious themes, it manages to retain a sense of levity through its relatable characters and engaging dialogue.

Ester Anderson, who plays Jane, offers a captivating and honest performance, making her both a symbol for the immigrant experience and a refreshing counterbalance to the two male leads of the film. Judy Geeson's character also embodies the feminist movements of the 60s era, complicating the overall social commentary of the piece.

Director Ted Kotcheff, renowned for his gritty and hard-hitting dramas, looks at the reflective times of the swinging sixties and enwraps it into an emotionally impactful story, making full use of the cast's acting prowess to drive home the film’s themes. The cinematography plays an equal part, presenting 1960s London with a blend of realism and grey-brown sadness, highlighting the divide between the affluent and the not-so-well-off.

With a strong cast who delivers engaging performances, Two Gentlemen Sharing offers deeper insights into the social complexities and racial tensions of the late 1960s. Its vision of cross-cultural unity and shared experience challenged the norms of the time and resonates even today.

This remarkable film tragically remains relatively unknown due to its limited release. Nevertheless, it remains a daring and thought-provoking piece of cinematic history, capturing the social upheaval while throwing light on the importance of tolerance, understanding, and acceptance that transcends the times watching it today.

Overall, Two Gentlemen Sharing is a fascinating glimpse into a specific time and place in British history. Its insightful treatment of race and social class issues is wrapped in a thought-provoking story of two individuals' shared experiences. It serves as an underrated cinematic gem that resonates deeply even decades later.