Swan Song

This film is a tremendously tender love letter and an homage to someone who is currently in the prime of his life, who has survived so many of the life's struggles and problems and hopefully some very good times too, being being an openly gay man in a small, conservative town. The film, though slow, is a tender and moving depiction and a what if scenario of a whole lot of us showing what life possible could turn for us in absence of love, family or friends.

Pat, a former hairstylist now lives in an old age home in a very small town in Ohio. One day a lawyer stops by to tell him that a posh woman Rita Parker, who used to be a big socialite and Pat's esteemed client has passed away and her dying wish was to get her hair done. Pat initially snubs him, since apparently they had a fall out but next day changes his mind and runs away form the home, with whatever little money he has. He makes a shopping list of things that he needs, more as an excuse to visit his old joints and haunts. He meets a couple who now own and live in the house which was once his and his partners. He meets the lady who has a new store where his store used to be.  A woman who came to his shop once to have her hair dyed blonde outfits Pat in clothes from her store. Slowly, through Rita's grandson and through Dee Dee, an arch rival of Pat and once his assistant; we come to know the details of the bittersweet relationship that they both shared.

The film takes a while to grown on you. Initially I was like, here we go with yet another director's self indulgence, but once you give it sometime and try to connect with Pat's character, the film has so much to offer. You have to remember that the town is small, the man is from a different time, but still hasn't lost his sass and his pride. He is now vulnerable and knows not to pick fights. Actor playing Pat is the soul of the film. His depiction of the characters sadness and vulnerability is so spot on , it feels you are watching his own life unfold on screen in front of you. Pat's interaction with all the locals is so heartwarming. You realize not everyone everywhere is nasty and people can be loving and caring and respectful too. The big change is gay lives and a community many years back compared to what it has become today is very subtle addressed too. Its a poignant film, albeit with a bit of clunky direction and a pace that takes time to settle in. But give it a go. The story of an aging man reflecting on his own life, introspecting of what it was and what it is to be, is a stark reminder to all of us of our lives. (6.5/10)