review
Jussie Smollett stars as Magnus, a gay man in a long-term relationship that is completely sexless. After discovering his true love’s infidelity, his friends help him grow to make peace with months of lies. The Skinny cannot be described as anything but hot, with gorgeous men and women in revealing positions. It portrays black gay men and women with realness and tact, something not often seen in gay cinema.
Blake Young-Fountain is the annoyingly bubbly, naïve twink Sebastian who makes a full 360 after a terrible encounter. The growth of his character brings his earlier naivety into sharp relief, reminding us of the terrible hard knocks that the world sometimes has to offer to those newly entering the gay community. As Sebastian grows closer to Magnus, we glimpse the incredible tenderness that Smollett is able to bring to his own character.
It cannot be ignored that the show starts off slow, with the actors stumbling over dialogue that is stereotypical at times. However, the film picks up in the middle as we get a deeper glimpse into the relationships the actors have with each other, and, most importantly, with themselves. Lines are delivered comfortably and laugh lines get the snap they deserve. Incidentally, the film does a great job of providing education about sexually transmitted diseases without coming off as preachy.
I was most impressed by director Patrik-Ian Polk, the jack-of-all-trades of the film. The director of Noah’s Arc (Logo) produces, writes and edits the film as well as performs much of the excellent music. The score perfectly compliments the film, and I look forward to rocking out to the club soundtrack Polk brings to the table.
Despite a weak beginning, The Skinny is a must-see, especially for anyone familiar with the LGBT scene in New York City.
review
Jussie Smollett stars as Magnus, a gay man in a long-term relationship that is completely sexless. After discovering his true love’s infidelity, his friends help him grow to make peace with months of lies. The Skinny cannot be described as anything but hot, with gorgeous men and women in revealing positions. It portrays black gay men and women with realness and tact, something not often seen in gay cinema.
