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| Saul with actors, Hains and Redford (Ariztical) |
Following a world premiere at Frameline, the San Francisco International LGBTQ Film Festival, The Surface has captivated audiences and critics at screenings nationwide.
From award-winning director Michael J. Saul (Crush, Adults Only, Go Go Reject), The Surface stars Australian model Harry Hains in his leading role debut, alongside Michael Redford and Nicholas McDonald.
The Surface tells the story of Evan Jones, an orphan who was shifted from one foster home to another for years. Now a disaffected college student, he lives with his wealthy boyfriend, Chris. Their social and financial differences have made their relationship increasingly volatile despite their love for one another.
While sifting through relics at an elderly man's yard sale, Evan finds an 8mm movie camera. The man offers to teach Evan how to use it if he comes back the following week. Upon returning, Evan meets the man's 43-year-old son, Peter. Peter gives him reels of old 8mm movies that are collecting dust in the garage. The home movies, featuring a young Peter and his boyhood friend touch a nerve with Evan. Their youthful flirtations and tenderness are uncomplicated and pure. Evan begins to live vicariously through the home movies and his friendship with Peter soon turns romantic. Evan's relationship with Chris splinters as he pushes for greater understanding of himself and the notions of family, love and fulfillment.
I spoke with Saul, via email, about his intriguing film and what's next?
