-Written by Michelle Vorob.
DTF? is a short film about a young, gay man, Jonah (Sam Krochmal), searching for connection through a series of meaningless hook-ups. The initial style is quirky, kind of silly, showcasing Jonah meeting up with four random online matches for sex. I must say, I didn't think I was going to like this film: despite being a grown man, Jonah seems almost like a dorky teen, due to his style and lack of confidence. He was very clearly being used by these men, and to me it didn't come off as fun or funny.
Jonah then finds another online match that seems like a connection [that could be more] and when he meets up at the man's house, it's none other than his attractive, former English professor, Terry (Garfield Wilson). The tone of DTF? begins to change. It becomes irreverent, genuine, and heartfelt. Jonah and Terry have a real connection and as they spend the night talking, Jonah matures before your eyes and Terry loosens up [Terry is recently divorced from his wife].
They begin kissing, only to realize it isn't what they really want or need in that moment. Terry is recently out-of-the-closet and Jonah really wants an intellectual connection, not sex. He tells Terry it's what usually happens when he meets up with his matches, but not necessarily what he wants. They part on good terms, both having found a much-needed confidant and friend, perhaps with future potential for more.
Jonah returns home to find that Terry has deleted his online dating profile, but has sent an email to Jonah, asking for a writing assignment, like back when he was Jonah's professor. By continuing the relationship in this way, Jonah and Terry both get the connection they were desperate for. They can both move forward, but also stay in contact, leaving the future open. In my mind, I actually imagined them becoming a couple in the future, both having gained the confidence they needed to be secure in their own skin.
The technicals of DTF? were consistent. Sound, lighting, editing, and overall production were done well enough for a low-budget film that I was able to focus on the story, which left an unexpected smile on my face. For a story that began in a manner I felt uncomfortable with, both cast and crew were able to convey something true, raw, and heartfelt. Krochmal not only stars as the main character, Jonah, he also developed the story and co-wrote the film.
There's a lot of heart and soul in this film and watching something that initially almost felt like “cringe comedy” so effortlessly transform into something more is a testament to Krochmal and everyone involved in this production.
DTF?, while it tells the story of a young, gay man, is relatable for anyone who has ever struggled to find meaningful connection and companionship. Everyone wants to be truly seen, truly understood, and loved for who they truly are.
Directed by Jess McLeod.
Written by Sam Krochmal and Jess McLeod.
Starring Sam Krochmal, Garfield Wilson, Jacob Woike, Luis Carbajal, Carson Bokenfohr, Nico Pante.
7.5/10 = WORTH RENTING OR BUYING
Courtesy of Crazy8s Film Society