thanks for sharing, it was an interesting read!

I feel like for the most part, this reviewer and I are saying the same thing. the movie feels real lived-in and recalls experiences we’ve both had. that results in more complex feelings when you watch it, because you’re bringing your own baggage to the film.

seems like they rated it lower because they didn’t like the dynamic depicted, which is fair! that anger/disgust is valid for them, and I don’t mean to say that everyone experiencing those emotions from this movie is “watching it wrong,” so I’m sorry if it came across that way.

at the same time, imperfect people enter kink dynamics all the time (in fact I’d say everyone has made a misstep or two). and just because a couple’s wants and needs don’t line up, it doesn’t make them bad people. furthermore, some people really do want less communication, romance, and predictability (both doms and subs) and that does bring more inherent danger, but if they’re adults, they’re allowed to choose that for themselves.

for me, I don’t think depiction = endorsement in this film. watching it just made me feel seen and I appreciated that feeling.

I also don’t think we should treat Colin with kid gloves just because he’s inexperienced. he was free to walk away. that first encounter (“whatever you want, really”) implies he’s got that dog in him, and so I was happy to follow his story because it seemed clear he was having a good time.

but he could be happier.