The director of Gone, But Not Forgotten offers a touching and inspiring movie about a young gay man who might let an accident ruin his chances of happiness. Explorations of romance and tragedy make this independent drama a memorable experience.
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Leo Minaya (Manito, How the Garcia Girls Spent Their Summer) plays Morgan Oliver, a young athlete whose recent accident left him partially paralyzed and seemingly ended his streak of winning awards for bicycling. Morgan resents his situation, spending his time moping and drinking. p> The handsome and athletic Dean Kagen (Jack Kesy) asks Morgan to pick up his basketball, not looking up in time to notice the wheelchair. He apologizes, but they quickly strike up a conversation, which leads to a date. Dean brings his own baggage to the relationship, but Morgan’s willingness to risk his own life to go back to racing could ruin everything.
Actress and comedienne Darra “Like Dat” Boyd (VH1’s Flavor of Love) plays Morgan’s best friend, Lane Williams. Lane won’t hesitate to tell Morgan exactly how she feels about anything, including his stubbornness and risk taking. She adds extra humor at first, but later adds to the film’s increasingly dramatic tone.
Film and stage actress Madalyn McKay plays Morgan’s mother, Peg Oliver. Morgan constantly takes her for granted and overlooks how his actions hurt her. The scenes between mother and son provide some of the most heart-breaking moments.
However, this film mostly centers around Morgan’s romance. The sparks between Kesy and Minaya intensify the happiest and saddest moments. Ultimately, expect an inspiring and romantic story that avoids the familiar territory of gay cinema.
Michael Akers directed a script he co-wrote with Sandon Berg. They previously collaborated on Phoenix, Matrimonium, and Gone, But Not Forgotten. Berg co-produced with Israel Ehrisman (Phoenix, Prodigal Sons).
A strong but never overpowering soundtrack captures some of the tragedy and romance. Ryan Rapsys scored the soundtrack, which also features songs by Miles, Molly Maguire, Nicholas Wells, David Raleigh, The Diamond Underground, and Ben Darwish. The music always seems just right for the moment.
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