Increases in short/feature films that are inclusive of a ‘gay’ story mean more tales are being told that we can most certainly relate to. For some of us, the struggle of coming out includes coming to terms with the fact you might be in love with your best friend.
This struggle is perfectly articulated in a short Sydney based film that has gone viral on Youtube, reaching over 100,000 views since its release in April.
‘The Language of Love’ is written and performed by 17 year old Kim Ho (Charlie), who whilst sat in a French exam, admits he has feelings for his best friend Sam. The nine minute piece explores how the character Charlie would tell Sam, fears he has around coming out, and homophobic bullying he experiences.
The evocative piece has received high acclaim from the likes of British actor Stephen Fry, who tweeted:
The short film has also received praise from US based queer publication The Advocate, which claims the video perfectly captures the ‘wonder, fear and excitement of first love’.
Kim Ho wrote a smaller version of the piece for the Voices Project, which is part of a young playwright development at the Australian Theatre for Young People. The short piece was shot on the grounds of Sydney Grammar.
Nadine Walker
