Dominic Savage’s ‘CLOSE TO YOU’ (2023) – Movie Review – PopHorror

When I was a kid, I was different from my entire family. I fit right in punk rock; that was my passion and style choice. However, the torment I went through does not compare to people who aren’t happy with their gender. We put people who are different into a big pot of culture. I love being an outsider, and Close To You, directed by Dominic Savage, was almost like an anthem of strength for people who deal with darkness and confusion.

Synopsis

Sam (Elliot Page The Umbrella Academy) who found comfort in his new purpose and gender, is headed home for their fathers birthday. Sam had been gone for years and fell off the map. Upon Sam’s return, he struggles with acceptance from the people he loves. Sam protects his dignity and fear of not being accepted.

After his family welcomes him with open arms and general conncern Sam has to dig deep to find the love he used to have. With the entire family together, he has to deal with strong criticsm from his brother in law Paul (David Reale Molly’s Game). While Sam is growing, he runs into an old love Katherine (Hillary Baack, Helen). When the pot boils over between Sam and Paul, Sam’s  life collapses. He slowly starts to bring himself back. Old memories and old flames are rekindled.

“The films I have been making over the past years have all been made with, and written
specifically for, a particular lead actor. They are, I feel, special collaborations that result in
stories that are rooted in absolute truth that have deep meaning and resonance for both me
and, most importantly, the actor. They are films about the complexities of our relationships, the
difficult parts of our lives, the every day of our existences, yet the striving for meaning and truth
within them.” -Dominic Savage

As much as I live for the horror community, sometimes drama movies impress me. However, I wouldn’t exactly call this drama. I think of it as empowering for people who can relate to it. I understand how hard it is for someone to accept and love you as you are. Sometimes, we need to hear that it’s OK to be different. That is what Close To You was centered around. The acting and emotion are powerful. Everyone landed their role perfectly; you could feel the tension in your own mind. What got me the most was the realism of the situation for so many people out there who just feel different.

In The End

I also loved the acceptance from the people who love Sam the most. I didn’t have the love I always yearned for with my parents. There are many scenes where you cheer on Sam and feel the crushing weight of emotions built inside. You can also feel everyone trying to build Sam up in self-confidence. Close To You is a movie I think everyone should see just once, just for a perspective for the people who may be intolerant. Some of us still believe in equal rights, and we don’t have to live it to accept it.

Close To You hits digital platforms August 16th.