It is a pleasure to be reviewing a film that manages to have gay characters throughout that don’t stand out, aren’t reliant upon camp or merely included for comedy effect. Avril, the latest release from Peccadillo Pictures is a touching light hearted look at how a person can change their destiny when passion is unlocked. Directed by Gérald Hustache-Mathieu and starring Sophie Quinton as Avril, a young nun about to take her eternal vows, the film is a heart warming tale of siblings separated at birth and what happens when they finally find each other.

David, Avril’s brother, played with real charm by Clément Sibony, is spending time at a beachfront retreat with his boyfriend Jim when his long lost sister appears with the handsome Pierre, an artist’s apprentice who chose to help Avril in her quest. What unfolds is a magical look at how a sheltered young girl awakens her passion for painting, for life and for the company of her brother. 

It is refreshing to be able to watch a film with gay characters that do not descend into caricature or farce; instead David and Jim are a believable couple, experiencing all the problems of any relationship. All four actors manage to lift their characters away from the screen and the intoxicating solitude and beauty of the beach that forms the location for the film is exposed with real charm.

Although perhaps the earlier scenes in the convent feel slow paced, they are necessary for establishing the claustrophobic atmosphere of the sisterhood Avril is set to join. This is a truly modern take on an age old story where the coming out is not of the gay characters but of the young sister which the film revolves around. 

If you are interested in well made films that represent honest relationships and do not dramatise the difficulties of gay love and romance then Avril is definitely worth watching. A quiet film of real intelligent charm and passion, where the energy of youth has the power to define whole lives and loves. 

Avril is available to rent and buy now

Certificate 15

Released on Peccadillo Pictures

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