Beautiful Thing

REVIEW
This affectionate story of two teenagers' sexual coming out in a working-class development in London is an inspiring, tender, emotional tale that is sure to enthrall. Jamie (Berry) is a reserved 16-year-old, close to his pub manager mum (Henry), and who prefers old Hollywood musicals to sports. His friendship with neighbor Ste (Neal), a fellow student who suffers through a troubled family life, soon develops into a sexual and eventually a loving relationship. How the two boys tentatively handle their nascent sexual drives is handled in both a fresh and surprisingly upbeat fashion. A wonderful comedy-drama and possibly the best gay coming-out film of the decade.