SPARK

The cast of characters are relatable, messy individuals — but the film is a bit of a mess too.

this feature is singularly a character study of a queer person obsessing over another who isn't emotionally available and not seeing the good thing right in front of them.

Germaine and their co-stars deliver rich, fully lived-in performances by doing away with the exposition, coming out narratives, and affirmation stories that too frequently define queer characters.

It's superbly well cast, with engaging queer actors playing roles that aren't defined by gender or sexuality. Without moralising, writer-director Nicholas Giuricich skilfully finds some knowing insight into the ways immediate sex might hinder intimacy.