Holding the Man Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two Aussie blokes fall in love, shag a lot, get sick, and then everyone cries; it’s basically a prolonged tourism ad with a really depressing ending.

🍿 Holding the Man: Detailed Plot Synopsis

High School Romance

The film begins with Tim Conigrave, an aspiring actor, falling for John Caleo, the captain of their all-boys high school rugby team in 1970s Australia. Despite their different personalities and social circles, they begin a passionate and enduring romance. Tim’s flamboyant nature contrasts with John’s quieter demeanor, creating a dynamic that faces early challenges.

Navigating Adult Relationships and Challenges

As Tim and John navigate their relationship into adulthood, they encounter societal discrimination and personal temptations. Tim’s pursuit of acting leads to separations and explorations of his sexuality, causing strain on their bond. The film depicts the realities of maintaining a long-term relationship, addressing issues of jealousy and commitment.

The Impact of the AIDS Epidemic

The AIDS epidemic casts a dark shadow over their lives. After a period of separation, both Tim and John are diagnosed with HIV. The film portrays their struggle with the disease, its impact on their relationship, and the devastating effects it has on their health. They face the challenges of illness, fear, and the limitations of medical treatment available at the time.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Timothy Conigrave (Ryan Corr): An aspiring actor and writer who falls deeply in love with John, navigating the challenges of their relationship and the AIDS epidemic.
• John Caleo (Craig Stott): A talented athlete and quieter personality who shares a profound and enduring love with Tim, facing societal pressures and health crises together.
• Bob Caleo (Anthony LaPaglia): John’s father who grapples with understanding and accepting his son’s sexuality while providing support during difficult times.
• Mary Gert Conigrave (Kerry Fox): Tim’s mother, representing a supportive maternal figure during his struggles with identity and health.
• Dick Conigrave (Guy Pearce): Tim’s father, who initially struggles with accepting his son’s sexuality but evolves to offer support.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Timothy Conigrave: “What happens to my soul if I go mad? Does it stay trapped inside or is it floating free?” – Tim contemplates the existential implications of his diagnosis, questioning what will become of his essence.
• John Caleo: “I’m not ashamed.” – John defiantly declares his lack of shame regarding his diagnosis to his father.
• Timothy Conigrave: “It’s like I’ve killed the man I loved.” – Tim expresses immense guilt and sorrow upon realizing he may have infected John.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $4.5 million (estimated)
• Domestic Gross: $136,815
• Worldwide Gross: $767,038

💥 Holding the Man Reviews

Personal Review

Wow, ‘Holding the Man’ hit me hard. From the opening scene, I was hooked on Tim and John’s story. Ryan Corr and Craig Stott brought such raw emotion to their roles, I felt like I was living their love story alongside them. The parts about AIDS were sad, but they also felt really important. When they are just being a normal couple, you forget that they are being brave and fighting against so many issues. I was sobbing by the end and needed a big hug. This is a must-see film.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of LGBTQ+ cinema”
  • “Viewers interested in historical dramas”
  • “Those who appreciate poignant love stories”
  • “Individuals interested in films about the AIDS epidemic”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Explicit sexual content”
  • “Graphic depictions of illness”
  • “Mature themes”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Strong language”

Professional Reviews

• Variety Film + TV: “While ‘Holding the Man’ treads familiar ground with its depiction of a love story amidst the AIDS crisis, it’s the raw performances from Corr and Stott that elevate the film. Armfield’s direction captures the intimacy and heartbreak with sensitivity.
• The Guardian: “Corr and Stott deliver powerful performances that anchor this story. The film doesn’t shy away from the tough realities of the AIDS epidemic, but it’s the moments of genuine connection between the characters that resonate most.

Audience Reactions

The on-screen chemistry between Ryan Corr and Craig Stott was electrifying.: Viewers praised the film’s authentic portrayal of a gay relationship, especially during the AIDS crisis.

Anthony LaPaglia’s performance as John’s father was particularly moving and nuanced.: The supporting cast brought depth and emotional resonance to the film, making the story more impactful.

Overall Consensus: A deeply moving and well-acted adaptation of Timothy Conigrave’s memoir, praised for its authentic portrayal of love, loss, and the impact of the AIDS epidemic. Not an easy watch, but a worthwhile one.

Awards

1. AACTA Awards (Best Lead Actor)- 2015
2. AACTA Awards (Best Supporting Actress)- 2015

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the memoir of the same name by Timothy Conigrave, published in 1995, shortly before his death.”
• “Ryan Corr, who played Timothy Conigrave, used the real telephone that Timothy used to call John when they were teenagers.”
• “The movie captures the era of the 1970s and 1980s with its soundtrack, featuring hits from those decades.”

🖥️ How to Watch Holding the Man?

As an Australian film, ‘Holding the Man’ may be available for streaming or purchase on platforms that specialize in international cinema or have a wide selection of dramas. Check services such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, or local streaming platforms in your region. Digital purchase and rental options may also be available through these services.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Holding the Man, you might like these similar films:

• Brokeback Mountain (2005): Deals with a forbidden love between two men and the societal challenges they face.
• Philadelphia (1993): Focuses on the AIDS epidemic and the discrimination faced by gay men during that time.
• Call Me By Your Name (2017): Explores a passionate, same-sex love story set in a specific time and place.
• Love, Simon (2018): Features a coming-of-age story centered on a gay teenager and his journey of self-discovery.

🛒 Holding the Man Related Products

• Holding the Man (Movie Tie-In Edition): The original memoir by Timothy Conigrave that inspired the film, offering deeper insights into the lives and relationship of Tim and John. A must-read for fans wanting to explore the full story.
• Ryan Corr Autographed Photo: A professionally printed photo of Ryan Corr as Timothy Conigrave, signed by the actor himself. A rare and valuable item for fans of the movie and Ryan Corr.
• Holding the Man Movie Poster: High-quality print of the official movie poster, capturing the essence of the film’s poignant love story. Perfect for decorating a home theater or adding to a movie poster collection.
• Pride Rainbow Flag: A symbol of LGBTQ+ pride, love and remembrance, flying a rainbow flag is to be in solidarity with the love story in Holding the Man.

🎧 Soundtrack

Holding the Man features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “20th Century Boy” – performed by T. Rex
• “Don’t Fear the Reaper” – performed by Blue Öyster Cult

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Jesus mocked on the cross – #crucifixion #crucified #jesus #cross #crucificado #crucifixión

Want to see a visual representation of a key scene from the crucifixion? This video provides a glimpse into the humiliation Jesus endured. It’s intense, but adds a lot of context.

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