Mulligans

There are many wonderful movies in the genre of Queer Cinema, but few are as delightfully surprising as Mulligans (2008). In golf, a Mulligan occurs when a player is given a second chance to perform a move or shot. Appropriately titled, this movie is all about second chances. I recommend this film as enjoyable for viewers of any orientation, but you queens with daddy issues are going to love it.



When Tyler (Dereck James) invites his college friend, Chase (Charlie David), to spend the summer with his family on Vancouver Island the lives of the Davidson's undergoe a transformation that redefines them forever. Chase learns that Tyler is a product of teen pregnancy when he meets dad Nathan (Dan Payne), mom Stacey (Thea Gill), and little sister Birdie, who's inquisitive and frank nature provides comic relief in an otherwise drama.



Working together on the golf course, Chase tells Tyler that he is gay. Tyler wants to do the best thing for his friend and confides in his father, who tells him to continue acting the way he always has. Things take an interesting turn when Stacey, Tyler, and Birdie go away for the weekend, leaving Nathan and Chase alone. Nathan reluctantly confides in Chase that he has always had feelings for men, but "Things were different twenty years ago." His attempt to console Nathan results in a surprisingly romantic enterprise for Chase...at least until the rest of the family decides to return earlier than planned.



Nathan's feelings have been concealed for so long that they are now uncontrollable, and his carelessness with Chase results in Stacey and Tyler discovering the truth. The Davidsons face difficult choices that may tear them apart, and Chase leaves in lonely exile for the remainder of the Summer. Forgiveness equals a second chance for redemption; however, no one's life will be as it was before.



This film touched me deeply because beneath the story line is a message about our need for intimacy. The desire for human contact is basic to most people, and an important piece of a greater whole. There is a book available for those of you who prefer to read before you view. I hope you will see this film. It is beautiful.



Happy Endings,

Matthew