Swan Song - Review

This was a terrific movie. I give it five stars (out of five) for the great performances of Udo Kier and Linda Evans. Kier's performance was incredibly strong---subtle at times, justifiably over the top at other times, and very funny with his comedic delivery of the script's funny lines. Linda Evans was also a revelation. She was a very good actress on Dynasty, but her performance in Swan Song's most dramatic scene brings a depth that I have not seen from Ms. Evans in any previous roles. Her unseen presence throughout the film helps to carry to movie, as her beauty and grace are in stark contrast to the world that Kier inhabits. The film is also realistic in its portrayal of AIDS in the 90's, and people's reactions to the disease. 

It also accurately portrays the transition of gay culture from the gay bars of the 90's to the online, app-driven world of hook-ups and dating that are so prevalent in today's gay society, and in society in general, as the gay and the straight cultures have practically morphed into one. The film does have some moment where it is slow in its pacing, but the comedic scenes and the goal of the main character drive "Swan Song" to a satisfying, bittersweet conclusion. Its originality and stellar performances are a welcomed departure from the tried and true, bigger budget movie releases that are so prevalent in Hollywood. Overall, it is a film worth watching. Todd Stephens did a masterful job of embracing profound loss, celebrating life despite feeling profound loss, creating a loving, complex and fabulous central character and most of all creating a film that enables the viewer to identify with humanity and all of its complexities. Kier's performance is breathtaking; he embodied the joys and sorrows of being human, with an honesty and tenderness that was profound. I am so grateful to all who contributed to this beautiful film.