Director/ Writer: Joshua Sanchez
Starring: Wendell Pierce, Aja Naomi King, Emory Cohen, E.J.
Bonilla, Yolonda Ross, Liam Benzvi
Synopsis: June (Cohen) wants to come out of the closet but fears
for the possible aftermath. In order to test his feelings he arranges a date
online with an older man called Joe (Pierce). As June and Joe spend a night
together a corresponding love story is taking place between Joe’s daughter
Abigayle (King) and her friend from school, Dexter (Bonilla).
Wendell Pierce may be best known
for his aptly named “Bunk” character in The
Wire, though is by no means keen on becoming typecast. Four finds him as a family man who has arranged to meet a teenage
guy intent on losing his virginity. Pierce’s performance is fantastic – not
unsurprising considering his part in the phenomenal Wire series – and tailored to his appearance. A formidable
presence, he embodies the “first time” fears whilst also showing a caring,
embraceable side to him. Pierce is a tremendous actor and eats up his scenes –
one monologue, especially, showcasing his skill – who is trying out daring
material and making it provocative and dramatic.
It is not only Wendell’s film and
as the title suggests, there is a focus on four characters. Wendell shares his
scenes with the lesser-known Emory Cohen. Cohen ignores any imitation that may
come from standing alongside the burly frame of Pierce and adeptly adds the raw
emotion of angst to Pierce’s soft and wistful portrayal.
The remaining two stories are of
Joe’s (Pierce) daughter and her love interest. Moments of poignancy and tender
conversations come and go through this section though this arc remains largely
uninteresting. There are no issues with the pair’s acting ability but any
statement Four aims to make is mostly
found in Pierce and Cohen’s part.
Four has elements that are thought-provoking and dramatic – another
valiant step forward in the gay cinema sphere. Pierce deserves some accolades
but with the mediocre nature of the film that may not come to fruition.
***
By Piers McCarthy. Also posted on LiveForFilms
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