Latter Days

Latter Days (2003) is a beautiful movie wrapped around a sexy love story. When Aaron Davis (Steve Sandvoss), a Mormon missionary, arrives in Los Angeles, he remarks that it "looked like this mass of dots, all jumbled and disconnected." Outside the circle of his fellow missionaries, it is more than coincidence that his first connection is his gay neighbor, Christian (Wes Ramsey). The story takes an interesting turn after Christan bets his friends that he can seduce one of his new neighbors. When he and Aaron begin getting to know one another, Christian discovers that Aaron is gay. Aaron admits the truth about himself, but is quick to point out that Christian is the type of shallow person who "equates sex with a handshake." This revelation proves cathartic for Christian, and compels him to seek ways in which he can become a better person.


So now these two begin to fall in love, but they get caught kissing by the other missionaries. Aaron is sent home in shame, but Christian follows after him, and they are reunited during a layover in Salt Lake City. This film renders a beautifully steamy sex scene with gratifying nudity that may have you pressing rewind a few times. Christian awakens after a night of passion to find that Aaron has left to face the consequences that await him, and both of their lives nearly fall apart.


After a period of personal obstacles and emotional torment, Aaron returns to Los Angeles and rediscovers Christian, his true love. Everything is restored, and Aaron begins to see that "we're all connected, and it's beautiful, and it's funny, and it's good." I was triumphant with joy when the two lovers are rejoined. This movie has many delights, including Jacqueline Bisset, who plays Lila, the wise and witty owner of the restaurant where Christian works. Her role in this film is purposeful, heart warming relief. She tells Aaron "Your church doesn't allow alcohol or homosexuals. Well I'm definitely not joining. I can't imagine heaven without both."


It seems that the seeking connections with other people is a theme common to many gay and lesbian films. There is truth in it, and redemption. We are all looking for connections to one another. The world can be lonely, but not if when we are courageous to be true to ourselves. In my early adulthood, I was in love with someone who had to choose between me and his own religious beliefs. Though my situation had different results than those in Latter Days, I can relate to this film on a very personal level. If you watch this film, be prepared to laugh, cry, and rejoice!


Happy Endings,
Matthew