BUDDIES (1985)

 

Written, Directed & Edited By: Arthur J. Bressan Jr.

Cinematography: Carl Tietelman

Cast: Geoff Edholm, David Schacter, Billy Lux, David Rose, Libby Saines, Damon Hairston 

The film follows a New York City gay man, in a monogamous relationship, becoming a "buddy" or volunteer bedside companion to another gay man dying of AIDS, and the friendship that develops. 

This is not only a monumental film, but a film of necessity to humanize gay characters, but also people who have and were dying of aids at the time. Providing them with representation and a voice in general and especially in media.

This was one of the first films that dealt with and talked about aids openly as a major release. that seems to have been forgotten. Overtime might be seen as outdated, but still is needed as it provides a look at the landscape of the time and the progression of the disease.

That it’s more minuscule observation and story. It still manages to pack a punch and put a face onto victims and on the characters and those suffering in general.

The film feels more theatrical due to the confines of what is being seen. As it was filmed in 9 days and rehearsed for 5 weeks prior,  that works as a time capsule of the times it’s unsettling and disturbing but human and truly shows humanity in kind.

No, the lack of other characters being seen only adds to the loneliness of the situation, especially after being diagnosed.

The performances are natural and have a ring of truth, despite minor missteps or two. 

As we learn more and more about each character, we discover that they are not just a statistic or a cause an actual person. This is a character theory that is now seeing the human side of the person and the torture of the disease. As it ravages its victims.

They debate one another on subjects and identities that are arguments and theories of the time. That offers no easy answers but declares the fact that we are all human beings and should be treated fairly no matter what our lifestyle or culture.

This is truly a film to experience more than just watch as it is hard to write about this film while it takes you on a journey even in its only limited space.

It’s a snapshot of the time it’s a small independent film that packs so much punch. Remind us of how far we have come, but also those who are out there and suffering.

The writer, Director Arthur J Bressan Jr., and lead actor Geoff Edholm both, unfortunately, from aids a few years after the film was released

Grade: A-