'BearCity' is the name of a 'bear' event. No, not grizzly bears or the kind you find at your local zoo. Bear refers here to the gay term for a hairy, bigger set man, or muscular. As someone who enjoys a hairy, manly physique, it was inevitable for me to watch 'BearCity', and it didn't disappoint! In fact, 'BearCity' is not only one of the best gay films I've seen, but also one of the best comedy dramas.
The film dishes up humour and drama in equal proportions, and features likable, relatable characters. The characters are well cast, and the performances are superb. Throw in a great script, good camera work, a good soundtrack, and you have a winning recipe. 'BearCity' follows 'twink' Tyler entering the hairy world of bears - erm, no pun intended, off course!
Tyler rents a room from gay couple Fred and Brent, and through them he meets their bear friends, and falls in love with the hunky Roger (excellently portrayed by Gerald McCullouch). 'BearCity' is a romantic film in every essence of the word. This was so much better and more believable than most straight romantic comedies out there. The characters felt very real, and their situations were very real. Michael - a heavily overweight man - is one of my favourite characters, whom I rooted for every step of the way. I absolutely love this character, portrayed by Gregory Gunter.
'BearCity' deals with so many themes, genres and elements all wrapped up in a film that is never raunchy despite it's premise and set-up. The clever photography only allows you to see enough to prevent the film from becoming porn in some instances.
'BearCity' will make you happy and sad, laugh and cry, and darn well will entertain you! (Note there is not a single female character...)
