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After Louie

After Louie (2017)

Mar 17, 2017 1h 44m Romance Drama

As an AIDS activist and member of ACT UP in the 1980s and 90s, Sam witnessed the deaths of too many friends and lovers. Battlewounded and struggling with survivor's guilt, Sam now resents the complacency of his former comrades and derides what he sees as the younger generation's indifference to the politics of sex, and of death. An unexpected intimacy with a much younger man challenges Sam's understanding of contemporary gay life. Through this unconventional romance, he is forced to deal with the trauma that so informs his past, their present, and an unknown future.

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Directed by Vincent Gagliostro

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Vincent Gagliostro
Writer
  • Anthony Johnston
Producer
  • Lauren Belfer
  • Bryce Renninger

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, After Louie examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Vincent Gagliostro brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of After Louie took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 104 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 455 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While After Louie shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Brother and Sister, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, After Louie subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like French Touch: Between Men and Miz Cracker's Favorite Haunts explore similar territory, After Louie stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: March 17, 2017
  • Runtime: 1h 44m

Where to Watch

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