Summary
This review was originally part of our coverage of the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.
It also takes on another complicated and somewhat taboo topic, throwingsex workinto the mix.
But does it achieve its goals?
Image via Sundance
What is ‘Sebastian’ About?
Theres an interesting movie hiding in here that we catch glimpses of.
But apart from those sparse occasions,Sebastianlacks a real sense of tension or danger.
Max, a 25-year-old aspiring writer living in London, begins a double life as a sex worker in order to research his debut novel.
And as it stands, its hard to care.
He ironically does feel like a stock character of queer media.
In addition to being a rather bland protagonist,Max doesnt treat the people around him well.
Theres a sense of entitlement and arrogance that makes him difficult to root for.
Its a pity, as this is by far the most intriguing and authentic dynamic in the film.
Im always rooting for a happy ending with LGBTQ+ narratives.
Sebastianis now playing in theaters in the U.S. Click below for showtimes near you.
Image via BFI
