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Boy Culture (2006) Online

Boy Culture (2006) Online
Original Title :
Boy Culture
Genre :
Movie / Drama / Romance
Year :
2006
Directror :
Q. Allan Brocka
Cast :
Derek Magyar,George Jonson,Patrick Bauchau
Writer :
Matthew Rettenmund,Philip Pierce
Budget :
$500,000
Type :
Movie
Time :
1h 28min
Rating :
6.8/10

A successful male escort describes in a series of confessions his tangled romantic relationships with his two roommates and an older, enigmatic male client.

Boy Culture (2006) Online

A successful male escort describes in a series of confessions his tangled romantic relationships with his two roommates and an older, enigmatic male client.
Cast overview, first billed only:
Derek Magyar Derek Magyar - X
George Jonson George Jonson - Blondie
Patrick Bauchau Patrick Bauchau - Gregory Talbot
Darryl Stephens Darryl Stephens - Andrew
Peyton Hinson Peyton Hinson - Jill
Jonathon Trent Jonathon Trent - Joey
Kyle Santler Kyle Santler - Scooter
Emily Brooke Hands Emily Brooke Hands - Lucy
Matt Riedy Matt Riedy - Frank
Cliff Harrington Cliff Harrington - Renaldo (as Clifford Harrington)
Molly Manago Molly Manago - Cheyenne
Demene Hall Demene Hall - Zelma
William Hall Jr. William Hall Jr. - Oren
Joël René Joël René - Candace
Kibibi Monie Kibibi Monie - Phyllis (as Kibibi Monié)

X's rental car is a 2004 Jaguar XKR.

Only one character in the film has both a first and a last name, Gregory Talbot, portrayed by Patrick Bauchau.

X's motorcycle is a 2005 Ducati.

The book that X first picks up in the bookstore, after being caught in the rain, is entitled "Women Loving Women." The title corresponds to a real book, by Jamye Waxman, however, the publication date of the book was not until April 1, 2007, which is after both the production dates and the release date for the film.

Film debut for Molly Manago (Cheyenne), Cliff Harrington (Renaldo), Kyle Santler (Scooter), Peyton Hinson (Jill), George Jonson (Blondie) and Derek Magyar (X).

Gregory is referred to as age 79 early in the film, but Patrick Bauchau was just 67 years old during production of the film. Also, Gregory has not left his apartment in eight years, since the death of his partner, Renaldo, making Gregory approximately 71 years old at the time of Renaldo's death after more than fifty years together. In the flashback scenes, Gregory and Renaldo looked about fifteen or sixteen when they met (although the actor portraying Young Gregory, Chris Bethards, was about 21 years old at the time of production), which would have made their actual relationship about 55-56 years long.

Feature film debut for Derek Magyar, who portrays X.

Feature film debut for George Jonson, who portrays Blondie.

Feature film debut for Peyton Hinson, who portrays Jill.

Film debut (and as of January 2015, the only role) for Kyle Santler, who portrays Scooter.

Film debut (and as of January 2015, the only role) for Cliff Harrington, who portrays Renaldo.

Film debut (and as of January 2015, the only role) for Molly Manago, who portrays Cheyenne.

A sequel in form of a web series, which will later be combined into a film, was filmed in 2018. Original Stars Derek Magyar & Darryl Stephens reprise their roles.

Q. Allan Brocka: As "Bruce Lee", one of X's "Twelve Disciples".

X's real name is Alex.

Gregory is referred to as age 79 early in the film, but Patrick Bauchau was just 67 years old during production of the film. Also, Gregory has not left his apartment in eight years, allegedly since the death of his supposed partner, Renaldo, making Gregory approximately 71 years old at the time of Renaldo's supposed death after more than fifty years together. In the flashback scenes, Gregory and Renaldo looked about fifteen or sixteen when they met (although the actor portraying Young Gregory, Chris Bethards, was about 21 years old at the time of production), which would have made their actual relationship about 55-56 years long. Later in the film, Gregory says "I haven't left my rooms since Diana's memorial," which was a reference to the televised funeral of Princess Diana, which was in September 1997, eight plus years before the release date of this film, televised as "Diana: The Nation's Farewell" on September 6, 1997.


User reviews

Nilasida

Nilasida

I saw Boy Culture yesterday at the London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival, having seen and enjoyed Q. Allan Brocka's last film, Eating Out. Once again we are in the rarefied atmosphere of the buffed and the beautiful - three pectorally perfect young studs with an apartment from the pages of Wallpaper magazine.

But the surface perfection hides a trio of unhappy people. 'X', the un-named narrator is a high-class rent boy with a select group of only 12 clients - the Disciples. Andrew, his room-mate and object of X's affection is a stunningly handsome boy who wants both love and an open relationship. Completing the triptych is Joey (aka Blowy Joey), a cute-as-a-button twink who plays 'son' to the dysfunctional duo.

X has a problem - not only is he in love with Andrew but his life as a hustler has left him able to have sex only when there is cash involved. Enter the enigmatic Gregory - X's newest Disciple - a reclusive figure who isn't quite what he seems.

Once all the protagonists are in play, Brocka does an efficient job of keeping all the plates of the various story lines spinning in an entertaining and engaging fashion. As X, Derek Magyar is not afraid to present an unsympathetic character, albeit one who asks for no sympathy from the audience. Andrew and Joey are a little too cute to be true, but their snappy dialogue and willingness to disrobe at any opportunity are ample compensation.

Indeed, many of the scenes and much of the dialogue have a saucy snap that puts Boy Culture streets ahead of the sweet but rather formulaic Eating Out - and the supporting characters that our boys encounter (especially Andrew's razor-tongued little sister) all play their parts to perfection.

But for me the film came most alive in the conversations between X and Gregory. Inter-generational gay relationships are the missing link of contemporary gay cinema, and the way in which their friendship develops is handled with great poignancy and charm, helped by an impressive performance from the great Patrick Bauchau.
Alsanadar

Alsanadar

As the author of the original novel, I think Q. Allan Brocka did a good job with the film. I have blogged about it extensively at boyculture.typepad.com and I think that my comments there capture my feelings on the subject. The director and writers kept the essence of my novel even while making some intelligent and creative changes. I can't imagine this film not being picked up by a distributor. All that said, it's very hard judging a film adapted from your own work. But I hope people like it and I'm confident that many will. There are a lot of gay movies out there that are not among my favorite films, that's for sure. But while I had feared something ridiculous might come of this adaptation, I can't stress enough that I feel the filmmakers did an excellent job.
Walianirv

Walianirv

BOY CULTURE is a very fine little film and were it being evaluated solely within the confines of gay films, it would easily rate 10 stars. It is well written, well directed, well acted and has messages that cover a fairly broad territory (racism, homophobia, hustler life style, relationships, coming out tales and tales from the closet, etc). There are some technical flaws with the film and some unresolved character problems that prevent it from being what it comes close to being, but finally here is a gay themed film that is wise, entertaining, and user-friendly for a larger population than the community for which it was made.

The story is biographical in nature: "X" (Derek Magyar) is a male hustler who lives off the income from a limited clientèle of regulars, who occupies a living space with two gay roommates - Andrew (Darryl Stephens) and Joey (Jonathon Trent) - and who has what he thinks it takes to make him happy. The missing element is love, and in several ways he comes into proximity with that missing thread: his newest client is Gregory (Patrick Bauchau in a richly nuanced performance as a elderly closeted loner) who introduces X to the finer things in life, including introspection and looking for what is missing in his world. Andrew is a conflicted African American man who still misses the caring he had with a girlfriend whose wedding he is to attend. Joey has just turned 18 and looks to X and Andrew as father figures. The problem is that X and Andrew have deeper feelings of attraction and commitment to each other than either wants to admit, and the story (as narrated by X) is about how this mutual challenging need is resolved.

Q. Allan Brocka directed and co-wrote the film with Philip Pierce and the dialog is snappy at times and gently tender at others. The cast is quite fine: the young lads are top notch eye candy while bringing solid acting skills to their roles, and the older actors bring a since of resilience to the story that keeps it grounded in style. This is a very good little film that deserves a wider audience, one that needs to see this aspect of the population once considered merely peripheral. Movies like this help understanding interpersonal relationships, and everyone needs to address that. Grady Harp
Thoginn

Thoginn

As more or more gay themed movies are released, it seems that the percentage of bad films has risen dramatically. That is why it was such a joy to discover this smart, funny, and wise movie that I can recommend to my straight friends as much as to my gay friends.

"Boy Culture" is not a good gay movie, but a very good movie period. It sports a terrific cast of three-dimensional characters and it is hot and sexy to boot. I have not seen their previous work, but if this is an indication of their output, I look forward to seeing everything they've done.

Kudos to everyone involved!
olgasmile

olgasmile

It is rare to see gay cinema that is thoughtful, witty, romantic and sexy all at once. Boy Culture is all that. The actors are great! The photography is rich and evocative. The setting (Seattle) is believable and supports the particular urban attitudes embodied by the characters. The story took me into a world different from my own. I laughed and was moved. It resonates in a larger sense with gay life (or male life) in contemporary society: What are the emotional risks needed in order to live a connected life? Our hard-won freedoms bring up questions -- about choice, and how we limit ourselves to guard our emotional wounds... This story is funny (rare in so-called "romantic comedies"!!) as well as touching and good-looking and sexy and smart! I loved it.
POFOD

POFOD

I just saw this movie the other night at Mia. Gay/Lesb Film Fest. This was not our center feature film but it should have been. This movie is a feel good movie about being gay, being in touch with yourself(at some level) and relationships...... The characters are real, alive, and the insight into the experiences and emotions are through the main character "X". The narration by "X" tells you what you need to know and nothing more. It's like reading a book but there's eye candy. There should always be some mystery, some unknown factor and that's the rest of the story. The story is of a relationship that is being suppressed by the two people who need and want it most, but can't or won't confront it. I know you're wondering how can the be relationship if it's suppressed? Ever wanted to date a friend but was afraid to take that next step to tell them how you really feel? Take them to this movie...We all needed some intervention at sometime in our lives.
Hudora

Hudora

I just came away from a screening of "Boy Culture" at the Seattle International Film Festival (where the director Q. Allan Brocka began his love of film), and thought "that was a very good gay film". The character acting was strong (especially the cameo part of Andrew's little sister "Cheyenne"). The audience all laughed throughout the film, which helped to ease the tension of some very powerful emotions. Derek Magyar pulled off the difficult job of being jaded and emotionally distant and yet a likable and charismatic character. "X" is part strong, silent, and manly and part Dorthy Parker with acidic observations. During the Q&A after the film, I found myself wanting to read more of the source material that Matthew Rettenmund has written in the original novel. IMDb doesn't give credits for Andrew's family but they really helped bring out his character more. While Darryl Stephens didn't have the same level of emotional non-verbal delivery that Magyar did, he was beautiful to watch and gave a strong performance. Jonathon Trent did a great job in the love triangle and made me think of the original "Queer as Folk" series.
Natety

Natety

Eating Out was not my favorite film. I actually only really enjoyed one scene of the movie. So I had uncertain expectations for the director's latest, Boy Culture. Let's just say that I was surprised.

This film, I guess, is controversial to some people. The main character is a sympathetic (enough) but unapologetic male hooker. Some of the characters party and sleep around; and one of these is barely of age. As well, the lead can be downright nasty at times; and there are some sexual moments that are hardly the pretty-boy soft porn we get so often in gay film. To me, however, these seeming deficits establish Boy Culture as one of the more unique and enjoyable gay films of recent years.

It is nice to see a film that takes risks. It is also fitting, since this is a film about taking risks. I can honestly say that though many elements of the plot are not hugely original (a crush that is not acted on, a "coming out" to the family, an older man who leads our hero to greater understanding), the details of these plot threads are daring. At points, Mr. Brocka seems to take these conventions and give them a proverbial b*** slap.

Most wonderfully, though unfortunately I would not make a great hustler, I really could identify with the characters of the film. The nastiness, for example, especially in the "humor" of its characters, seemed so right. Don't most of us use humor as an emotional condom from time to time, a bit of protection from potential pain? Can't most of us identify with the desire to keep people out of our emotional soft center? The film addresses this reality in a way that can be unnerving, but is still humorous and at times extremely wise.

No, this film is not for everyone. No, the characters are not good plain assimilated folk who the straights can love and not judge. The beauty of film to me, however, is when it can find the universal in something that may be far from our experience. Deep down, I really think Boy Culture does just that.
Keel

Keel

The acting in most gay movies is TERRIBLE, so I was pleased to stumble across Derek Magyar's performance in "Boy Culture". The character he plays is extremely sexy (mostly because he is guarded almost to the point of being completely unavailable). The character "X" is a high priced male hustler with a very select client roster. "X" appears to the outside world to be a hardened, almost heartless, shell of a human being, but the audience is privy to his innermost thoughts. Through this internal dialog, we learn that "X" is "saving himself" for someone who loves him, and has convinced himself that he is secretly in love with his roommate played by the talented young actor Darryl Stephens of LOGO's Noah's ARC. If Derek wasn't a gifted actor, the character "X" would not have been likable (and the audience wouldn't have cared what ultimately happened to him). But, because Derek IS a talented actor, with above average material that borrows from a classic play, the audience is given the opportunity to invest in what happens to "X".

The story unfolds through sexy dialog that is believable enough if the audience is willing enough to suspend belief long enough to buy into a more serious, and sexier, gay version of "Pretty Woman." If you let out a little groan at the comparison, be aware that both of these films owe a debt to George Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion". While "Pretty Woman" follows a more predictable, and commercial path with the prerequisite Hollywood happy ending which owes more to "My Fair Lady" than Shaw's original play, "Boy Culture" is actually closer to the spirit of "Pygmalion". Gifted character actor Patrick Bauchau, best known for playing the character of "Sydney" for four years on the television series "The Pretender" plays Gregory Talbot, the rich "sculpture" who is intent on molding "X" into his creation. The story appears to follow predictable paths at times, but is actually more complex than what the jaded viewer may expect. Thankfully, the characters in this story often display traits of nobility that elevate them above what they appear to be if only given a cursory inspection. While this film borrows from "Pygmalion," it doesn't steal; it veers away from the known story arc to find its own path.

With sexy dialog, the conveyance of raw emotion through his eyes, and a male beauty that rivals the sexiest Titan porn stars, Derek Magyar delivers a performance that is more than worth the average ticket price (a rarity these days to be sure). He emotes a type of vulnerability without giving up his pseudo-macho hustler persona. His character establishes early on, that he is unavailable (symbolically placing his jacket on the empty seat next to him, showing that he will allow no-one to get too close). He is very acid tongued to anyone who tries to remove that "barrier" and get too close, but it is obvious he is doing this in order to protect himself from harm. He pushes people away with "humor" based in a need for self preservation. He prays often (humorously enough he owns a religious Madonna icon –the Catholic version, not the pop-star) asking for forgiveness. It is easy for the viewer to grant this forgiveness since "X" is actually a very passionate, albeit damaged, character.

If this movie were a wide release Hollywood drama with heterosexual characters, Derek's performance would be a star making role. Although this film is unlikely to become a blockbuster, hopefully it WILL eventually find the audience it deserves. It has the potential to become a gay cult classic, and audiences that discover this small film may well begin to follow this talented cast to other projects. Without spoiling the ending, I found this film to be both unapologetic and hopeful. Considering the lack of gay cinema that offers either of these outcomes, I am delighted to recommend this film. I go to movies to escape and be entertained, and I found this film to be very entertaining escape on multiple levels.
Kikora

Kikora

There being only one other comment leads me to make my contribution. At no point could I see this film as being dark or depressing, unless of course once wished to 'make' any form of minority life negative in aspects. The premise is hardly romantic and uses a fact of gay behaviour: escorting and 'tricks'.I saw this film as part of the local Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and liked it very much. I believe one error is to make it factual or to align it to real life, as with most celluloid productions. I 'read' the metaphors in the film and saw perspectives that were either enhanced or exaggerated to make a story, e.g lifestyles. At the end of the day it's a romance almost. I won't go into more analysis as to do so starts to remove the simple enjoyment. Is ' Queer as folk" dark and depressing? Well it can be if one uses those elements to apply to the entire series. It only uses a premise to explore relationships and situations. I found it entertaining and enjoyable and wish it were available on DVD.
MisterQweene

MisterQweene

Hello,

My partner of more than thirty years was taken from me a few years ago by cancer. I loved him more than 'X' loved Andrew. I have not had anyone in my bed since. This movie brings back so many memories of him that I watch it many times. We had many, many good times together including road trips to California and Wyoming. Derek Magyar (beautiful) and Darryl Stephens (very sexy) were perfect together. I would trade places with either of them. The original story was about two white men. I was happy to see a mixed culture especially with Cheyenne. Joey (Jonathon Trent) was too much. I was greatly surprised that Patrick Bauchau played a part in this. I admired him in 'The Prentender' series. BUY THIS, you will not be disappointed.

I just wish that I could see a biography on Derek to include his date of birth and future movies, not TV series.
Kerdana

Kerdana

X, as we are told to think of the narrator of this gay love story, is a hustler. He has only a few clients, but they each pay him well. He lives in luxurious digs in Seattle. He has a couple of roommates and they give us most of the plot. X is cynical and clever, his friends are more romantic and maybe not so sophisticated. It all turns out more or less as you will probably suspect from very early on, but you just might have a good time watching it. I did.

The performances are spotty but all are at least adequate. There are a few sex scenes, but much more is hinted at than shown. I didn't notice a rating, but in a sane world this one could be PG.
X-MEN

X-MEN

Hi Guys, I saw this movie yesterday (WOLRD PREMIERE) at the LLGFF in London, UK. It was brilliant! The directing, writing and characters were an absolute treat to the eyes and for the mind. Very engaging movie from start to finish. Extremely strong performances from all, special mention to Darryl Stephens and Derek Magyar, these guys were strong throughout, and the chemistry on screen is a pleasure to watch. Darryl has a screen presences, you just cannot take your eyes of him. I had the pleasure of catching him previously at LLGFF 2005 in Noah's Arc. A really fun piece. A definite must see! Q. Allan Brocka participated in a Q&A after, he is an amusing and intelligent director/writer to listen to, and definite continuation of his high calibre of work from Eating Out.

Also can not forget Patrick Bauchau from the TV series The Pretender with Michael T Wiess(who we all agree HOTTIE)Michael i mean! Patrick brings the Six Degrees of Separation (Will Smith) feel to the movie! Guys catch this at film festival near you, and support its main stream distribution. These movies need to make social and monetary impact!!!
Samardenob

Samardenob

Have seen yesterday-night this movie at the Brussels Pinkscreens gay and lesbian film-festival. It is noon now and the movie is still in my head. Can't let it go. For me this is a thé sign of a good movie...

As my English is not that good, it is rather difficult to give a very good and complete description of the movie but i do wanna say that it is an amazing movie! It is drama and comedy at the same time. Relaxing but at the same time asking all of your attention. Interesting story together with perfect looking actors. I had never heard of this movie before and when i started searching on the internet for some extra information, there is none to find... Except IMDb.com gives some...

For those who get the chance to see it, please do!!!! I am hoping that one day i will have the possibility to buy this movie cause it is a pearl that may not be lacking of my collection! Enjoy the movies!
Tebei

Tebei

Normally most gay themed films are not good movies,MOST have second rate acting & production values & the plots ^ story lines are usually pretty bad. In fact I did not even like the last film by this director EATINGOUT.

The above being said, BOY CULTURE is one first rate film, The script is actually believable.

We have a very high priced male hustler, who is so fussy he has only 12 clients.. We concentrate here on his latest client, an older , very virile Senior Citizen, who seems to be more of a mentor to our Hustler.

In order to please the IRS tax-man, our Hustler has 2 roommates. One a very engaging Black,who while not a hustler is quite promiscuous,

He & our hustler hero seem to like each other & that seems to be all? The other lad is just an 18 year cutie. who cares for both of them

The dialog between these 3 & the Senior, is just first rate & we learn much about the lives & how they live & love. They may not always agree with one another, BUT they do care & that sure helps make this film a worthwhile rental. I will buy it when the price is affordable.This is a movie to be seen over & over.

They are all likable people that we the audience can care about.

The film may not be for everyone, BUT for those that like well made & acted light comedy/dramas, this is a must see,'

Why this charmer played in only a hand full of theatres, ( according to IMDb 7 ) is beyond all comprehension.

There is a minimum of foul language,no frontal nudity, & very brief sex scenes (well handled) .this was not rated by the the rating board. I would give it a PG-13

Ratings **** (out of 4) 98 points(out of 100) IMDb 10 (out of 10)
Tuliancel

Tuliancel

From Boy Culture, I have learned that there are some things a scriptwriter should know when throwing a script together.

1) Making the lead character speak in a monotonous semi deep and semi quiet tone, does not make him a deep, interesting or insightful character. It just makes him a character speaking with a monotonous semi deep and semi quiet tone.

2) If you want to make bible references think it through. References alone does not make it thoughtful.

3) If you need an amusing sidekick, the audience will surely appreciate if you actually create an amusing character with amusing lines, instead of throwing in a gay stereotype. He's helpless and shallow, we get it, ha-ha-ha.

4) If you want your lead character to be a luxury prostitute, you should pick an actor who's got looks and personality that men would actually shell out money to nail. A bitter guy with a monotonous semi deep and semi quiet tone is not really a courtesan.

5) If you want your movie to come across as insightful and deep, don't plaster the every scene with clichés.

6) If you don't know how to write believable dialog just admit it and find someone who knows.

7) If you want to include a "wise old man character", make him wise and not just old.

Okay, this listing is getting as pretentious as the actual movie, so I'll just shut my mouth now and let any potential watchers out there know the following two words: SKIP IT!
Arcanefire

Arcanefire

OK I have to admit I thought I was going to hate this film. After reading the synopsis I was dreading it and thought...ah some cheap gay crap full of crap actors getting their kit off to fuel other gays' sexual fantasies. But I was wrong.

OK the film has clichés, clumsiness, and pretentiousness. But these flaws are mild when taken in the overall context of the film. Essentially it's a romantic film with gay interest, but the "gay interest" part can really be ignored. The story, cast, screenplay and progress of the movie works...overall! It's charming and endearing. It's never going to be your favourite film or anything wonderful... but you'll like it. It might become one of your faves! Finally, my respect to the actors. Again, not Oscar-winning performances, but certainly commendable and enjoyable.
Dorintrius

Dorintrius

This movie was okay, but not all that. It was mildly interesting. If you wanted to see Daryl Stephens in another role besides Noah, or if you're just feeling really gay, then it could be somewhat satisfying. I thought the four actors were good and played their characters well (considering what they had to work with), but the script wasn't very good and the plot was lacking. It tried to have a point but just didn't quite make it.

And boy did everything work out so conveniently for Andrew (Daryl's character) when he took X to see his family and go to his ex-girlfriend's wedding! They weren't sure how they'd go: as roommates, as friends, or as a new item, because Andrew had not officially come out to his family. The parents welcomed them in as a couple, the mother told them to share Andrew's bed in his old room, the mother told Andrew she'd known all along, the father questioned X like a fiancé just to confirm that he had financial security (X told him he was an investor, which he was, but he left out that he initially made the cash from hustling). The girlfriend was happy to see Andrew, and her newly out gay brother was thrilled to see him (this is the brother Andrew had thought was straight and wanted to get to during the time he dated her). That whole sequence was a fantasy-dream-come-true coming out.

The plot movements and the character relationships had a lot of false starts. In many instances the story would move in a direction, but the writer didn't follow through all the way with what he'd started. So I was left feeling disappointed or let down with a lot of the small sub-plots within the movie, and with the general plot.
VariesWent

VariesWent

I think the theme is fascinating: How on earth can gay escorts do what they do? And how does it affect them? Apparently many escorts have intimacy and trust issues that stem from the superficial nature of their relationships with their clients.

In this movie, our handsome hero is an escort struggling with such interpersonal and relationship issues. His two roommates are both in love with him, but he pushes them away. Not surprisingly, he finds it difficult to open up and have a "real" (i.e. non-pecuniary) relationship with someone appropriate. X had come to think of sex and emotions as having great value, I suppose. Not something to be given away for free.

I didn't really get this movie. There were problems with the dialogue, character development and plot. Some aspects of the movie just didn't ring true.

Even though he's a highly paid escort, X seemed to be living like a waiter.

We're not really shown why X is such a great escort. This movie needed an elegiac sex scene that made clear why X is good at what he does. Why did he love it so much?

X falling for Gregory didn't seem right to me. I get it that opening up emotionally to an older man could lead to feelings of intimacy (especially since Gregory was acting like a therapist), but why should that lead to desire? Intimacy and desire are two different things. The sex scenes between them were problematic for me.

When Joey offered himself to X both emotionally and physically, it seemed inexplicable to me that X felt nothing. If these scenes were meant to show us X's dysfunction, they worked. X lacks the easy sexuality of most gay men.

The movie hinged around X's emotional life, which was in turmoil. Sure, escorts can be prone to self-image problems and depression. Perhaps it's too difficult to show this on film, but we don't really find out why he has such intimacy problems and why he's such an as*hole. Near the end he sobs "I'm a freak", but I didn't really understand why he was feeling this way.

By the end of the movie, I was annoyed by X.

We were told repeatedly that X was in love with Andrew, and vice versa, but I didn't feel that at all. It didn't seem like real love at all. Maybe lust on Andrew's part. But what was it on X's part? X's emotional turmoil would have been difficult for the most difficult actor to convey on film, especially if the lines weren't right.

Perhaps I've not really understood this movie properly, even though I've seen it twice. Maybe this is actually a profound movie with much to say about the emotional life of gay escorts.

However, it left me with a disengaged, flat and down feeling afterwards. I wasn't moved at all. I can't say I really enjoyed the film. Worth about 5 or 6 out of 10.
Coiwield

Coiwield

Just saw this movie and felt the need to post my first review ever, for the record English isn't my first language. This movie wasn't at all what I expected it to be, it was more...interesting. The story is about a well payed hustler called "X" who lives with his two roommates; 18-year old Joey whom he has a sort of father-son relationship with and Andrew that he has feelings for but never have acted on. X's career provides him with a very comfortable material lifestyle at the expense of his emotional. A new client, an elderly gentleman, stir up emotions for X and things can no longer stay in status Q. The movie is narrated with X's thoughts, which describes situations in a sarcastic and humorist precise way. The narration is such a smart touch to bring the story forward and makes the otherwise poker-faced X so likable, what he says in his mind isn't always what he speaks out loud. I didn't expect this movie to be clever in the way it was and sweet, the character of young Joey added a touch of "feel good movie" without being too much. The trailer depicted it very differently; hustler with promiscuous roommates was the selling angle. I really want to give the director credit for the lack of uncalled for sex scenes, movies about hustlers/prostitutes tend to use the excuse to add more sex. This is one of those movies that's not exactly gonna make my top-ten list but will stay with me longer than most!
ZloyGenii

ZloyGenii

.....a "Classic" in the making. Hey, to become one, not everything has to be an emotional downer like the exceptional "Brokeback Mountain." The 'light romance' film category has its "Classics," too. And this film, this "Boy Culture" is so good it's almost "fairy tale-ish" (that's meant in a good way).....so different from what films usually give us about ourselves (Q. Allan Brocka: "King of Gay Filmdom").

Yes, it is a love story.....one about looking for love---a real and lasting love---and being afraid to accept it when it's found. And "X" proclaims it so loudly and clearly when he first introduces us to Andrew: "That's who this is all about." (And wouldn't you, the viewer, then think that puts Andrew in an all-powerful position.....well, just wait and see).

But, enough about the story. While many other online reviewers here have already talked about story line.....plot, lets us now do some "actor digging."

First, it's got to be said that this is not one of those movies where one need only watch facial expressions, or body language, and listen to what's being said. Oh, no, in this one, it's an absolute must to "watch the eyes".....you've just got to "watch the eyes." Why? Because Derek Magyar ("X") has great eyes---he can make love to you with those eyes. And did you even catch how many times those eyes had tears in them? Amazing! And while it's Darryl Stephens who has the beautiful eyes, it's Derek who has the world in his. Watch for them misting up when he knows he's been cutting and unkind to Andrew, or when at a wedding he becomes aware he's about to lose out on the only person he knows he wants / he loves. Oh, and, for the fun of it, be sure to watch closely what he does with those eyes at that point in the film where he enters their digs and sits down right against Andrew on the sofa. Just watch where those eyes "go to" (you'll be able to picture yourself having done exactly what he does). Yes, those eyes are his most devastating physical feature.....I so hope you have a large and clear enough screen to see all this. Again, he's just amazing! Am I in love? Yes, I am.

Second, what else can you say about the two young lead characters in this fairy tale of love, other than that they have "those feelings" for one another......if only they'd let themselves stop to realize it. In that exciting near-the-end scene (which is a repeat of another love tale told in this story), when asked what he is doing, "X" replies: "Waiting for you" (going on to tell us, in voice-over: "The words haunted me"). We, the viewers, then realize, as does he, that's exactly what he has been doing throughout the entire film narrative: "Waiting for Andrew"......to accept Andrew. BUT, dear readers, whether he accomplishes that is for you to find out.

Everything in and about this production moves like the proverbial clockwork; there really are no rough spots. How Director "Q" got these levels of performance out of this "tri-pod" of, essentially, first-timers-to-movies (Magyar, Stephens and Jonathon Trent) is almost unprecedented and beyond me. To be factual, though, it is really more of a "quad-pod," when you stop to realize that the good, senior Mr. Patrick Bauchau is as much a "cast leg" of this production as any of the other three. But.....the important thing for us to note is that "Q" did draw out top notch levels of performance, and he has, indeed, given us that rarity---a gay love story that provides a "lives happily ever after." You needed that, I needed that, (Ennis and Jack needed that), we all needed that. Thank you immeasurably, Mr. Brocka, nephew of The Philippine's Lino Brocka, director of 1988's "Macho Dancer" (we know; it's in the genes, it's in the genes). I'm so looking forward to what you give us in the future. If I knew a way to invest in you, fiscally, I would.

A final thought for a specific audience segment---Isn't it interesting that the only "real simulated" sex in this production (that means 'anal' for those of you wondering) is not between our two young lead lovers. Instead, we Seniors out here get the goods---for once. Go us!!

****
Nicearad

Nicearad

To say that Boy Culture, that latest film from Q Allan Brocka is a step up from his last, Eating Out, is like saying saying Hurricane Katrina is a worse disaster than the Northridge Earthquake. Eating Out, as many have noted, is one of the worst, most insulting gay-themed films ever made. It is a blight on the cinematic landscape. Boy Culture is mature step forward but I'm not sure how much credit goes to Brocka. The film about three displaced male hustlers is based on an acclaimed novel by Matthew Rettenmund and Brocka co-wrote the screenplay with Phillip Pierce. For the first hour, Brocka riffs on Trainspotting -- Brocka should have acknowledged Danny Boyle in the credits -- and the sloppy editing by Philip J. Bartell is a major annoyance. Most of what works here is due to the strong work by newcomer Derek Magyar, a stunning newcomer who invests his portrayal with insight and nuance not generally found in films like this. The other two young actors Darryl Stphens and Jonathan Trent are also capable, though Trent borders on caricature. One deterrent, however, is actress Emily Brooke Hands -- soooo shrill in Eating Out, here she's given less to do but she still has a nails-on-a-chalkboard screen presence.
The Apotheoses of Lacspor

The Apotheoses of Lacspor

I have been a fan of this writer/director since I saw EATING OUT last year and EATING OUT 2 this year. Both movies are fast-paced, funny and very sexy. I have a feeling that this director is sexy when he's just drinking a cup of coffee.

I'm also a fan of actor Darryl Stephens, of NOAH'S ARC fame on LOGO. Darryl has always been appealing visually but in BOYS CULTURE his acting improves one hundred percent. He is really moving in a pretty underwritten role.

The lead actor, whose name very sadly escapes me, is really riveting as the hustler named only X. He was most moving when he was an asshole. Which was a lot.

The heart of the movie and the find actor=wise is Jonathan Taylor, who plays Joey. He is sexy and funny and flip and very moving. I was a little afraid he was going to attempt suicide at one point. Thank God gay movies have moved beyond that.

There is one miss step in taste for me, when X talks about the look on the face of a statue of the Virgin Mary. The joke was cheap and tasteless and fell flat.

But the movie, like the actors and director, is hot, hot, hot.

Bravo all around!
Yozshujinn

Yozshujinn

I saw this during De Roze Filmdagen 2006 in Amsterdam. I found it amusing to watch this movie, but I didn't think it was great. The good thing about this movie is that it is an adaptation of a novel, so there is actually a plot. The bad thing about it, is that it suffers from the same disease that many filmed novels have, namely that whoever makes them usually has a hard time deciding what to put in and what to leave out.

So much for my global impression. Now let's talk about the main ingredient of the film; the drama. While there was certainly no lack of dramatic situations in the film I feel the meat of the dramatic situation was never decently fleshed out. Maybe this was a flaw of the movie maker, or maybe it was a flaw in the original novel.

My main criticism is this; what is the impact of Xs chosen profession on his life? Working as a rent-boy has serious consequences for the way you live, if you aren't about as shallow as a puddle. X does seem to be a person with a character of some complexity.

How does he deal with the stigma that society places on prostitution? Does he lie about what he does? Also, why are there no other prostitutes in the movie, does he shun them, and if so, why? How did he get the referrals to his twelve customers when he is not seen to be around any other prostitutes? Do his customers do that? The drama would have been much better if the movie had addressed these questions as well.
TheMoonix

TheMoonix

This film is a beautiful portrayal of what it's like as a Gay man. A wonderful story of being pulled between love and a "career" that you love. The character X is a beautiful man that seems to be cold-hearted but is really confused and wants to be in love. Watch as he tries to come to grips with himself and what love really means (the sacrifices, etc). I watched this with my boyfriend who is not a huge fan of gay films. He absolutely loved this film. I was surprised that he sat through it and made comments about how he used to feel the way X does. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. A must see for any member of the Gay community.