Word: Ash Pritchard

Sometimes a movie comes along like a breath of fresh air. Patrik 1.5, is a gay movie that transcends any queer agenda to tell a heartfelt story of love, redemption and acceptance. Sweden is known for its progressive social views, a society that embraces differences, and has long been a leading proponent of gay rights. The opening sequences of the movie, which show couple Sven and Goran Skoogh adapting to their new suburban neighbourhood, demonstrate that while society may be tolerant, there is still a way to go.

Goran and Sven have everything any modern couple could possibly desire. They both hold great jobs, have a supportive and loving relationship, and their wonderful new home in the suburbs is the launch pad for their perfect family. Having been approved as adoptive parents their quest to become the perfect family will soon be complete. Goran has his heart particularly set on adopting a baby, and creating a warm and loving environment together. Sven, previously married with a teenage daughter, is supportive if reticent about starting a new, gay family.

Their dreams are shattered when they find that because they are gay, no foreign country will allow them to adopt, and a shortage of Swedish babies means no gay couple will be selected. This disappointment, and the realisation that despite living in a “tolerant” society they are still treated as a second class family begins to cause a rift in their relationship. However, a lucky letter brings news that 1.5 year old Patrik needs a new home.

When Patrik turns out not to be a baby, but a 15 year old troubled teen with a history of violence and a criminal record, the narrative really begins to take off. Patrik freaks out when he realises his new hosts are gay, locking himself in his room. Sven is appalled by his behaviour, while Goran takes a more understanding route. In the days that follow, the trials and tribulations of the three cause each of them to learn something about themselves and each other.

Adapted from a stage play by Ella Lemhagen, Patrick Age 1.5 takes a bureaucratic blunder as a starting point from which to explore the true openness and tolerance of Swedish society and the concept of a gay family. The comedic moments never descent into farce and the lead actors Torkel Petersson, Gustaf Skarsgard and Tom Ljunman handle their roles with just the right touch of sincerity. An enjoyable, humourous script that manages to hold onto its heart without descending into sentimentality, it’s the type of film that both gay boys and their mothers will enjoy watching.

Ticket available at www.hklgff.hk
22/11(Sun) 7:45pm/AMC Festival Walk, Kowloon Tong
24/11(Tue) 7:50pm/IFC, Palce IFC Central