Yossi

I'm probably in the minority but I found this sweetly melancholy sequel to Yossi and Jagger superior to the original. It's an authentic look at loneliness and grief. Eytan Fox doesn't need to resort to histrionics to convey the inner turmoil of his unwillingly self-defeating main character.

There are some affecting scenes here (esp those involving the parents of Yossi's ex-lover) & the performances are well done, but this doesn't add up to much more than a closeted, traumatized introvert coming out. The way he comes out is also implausible since it requires a young stud-type to ceaselessly pursue a morose shlub who's so depressed he usually seems like he couldn't give a sh-t, until, all of a sudden, he does.

A short, simple film, but constructed and performed with subtle, tasteful strokes of genius. The acting is top-notch, as is the pacing of the story. It's a very realistic fiction, and doesn't fall into the trap of over-dramatisation. The soundtrack may be a bit too sensitive and easy-listening for some. I haven't seen the prequel, but if it's equally skilfully made, I know I must do so soon.

Leisurely paced character study about a 30-something Israeli doctor still suffering from the loss of his male lover. Notable for its dramatization of postponement, repression and loneliness, it might be a bit of a downer for some. I found refreshing its commitment to sadness, if you will, not least because the chubby hairy guy gets the smooth twink, in the end.