Burning Blue (2013)
10/10
Repressed Individuals in the Military
14 July 2014
Warning: Spoilers
One of the fine films I've seen about gays in the military when discrimination and homophobia existed. This is based on director's DMW Greer's play of the same title which received critical acclaim.

The story focuses on two relationships. First is the "bromance" of Daniel and William who are F- 18 pilots working for the US Navy. Buddies from the start, this friendship was disrupted when a third guy Matthew entered the picture and became Daniel's love interest. This film is set during the period of Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy when the situation made the characters "internally" homophobic and sexually repressed, heartbroken and fearing for their career future. A gay witch hunt follows, investigating Daniel and Matthew relations and also that of William's and other pilots'.

The last half hour is engrossing and will reveal secrets. But the message is clear: the old "Don't Ask Don't Tell" and the discriminatory policies before that did not work. It had only detrimentally affected the lives, loves and families of gays who really just want to serve their country.

The film has very good production values, like a mainstream film, and very well paced. The acting is excellent especially by Trent Ford and Morgan Spector (fine acting at the last part). Rob Mayes is great as handsome Matthew.

Over-all a film worth watching.
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