Film

Synopsis:

Luke, 21, works long hours in a near-empty supermarket, disconnected and weary. He returns home to find his father, Malcolm, in his 50s and living with MS, ashamed after wetting the bed. Luke, overwhelmed, washes Malcolm in silence. The new carer, Hermes queer, confident, and warm arrives on a motorbike with his boyfriend. Luke watches anxiously, fearing how Malcolm will react. He gives Hermes strict instructions, only to hear Malcolm use a homophobic slur as Luke heads to work. Panicked, he leaves. Despite the insult, Hermes treats Malcolm with humour and dignity. Over time, Malcolm grows comfortable in Hermes' care. Seeing this, Luke feels increasingly displaced. When Hermes offers to stay late so Luke can go out, he reluctantly agrees. Luke returns home drunk and tries to kiss Hermes, who gently rejects him. The next day, Luke, hungover and ashamed, avoids Malcolm. Hermes carries on as if nothing happened. After Hermes leaves, Luke enters Malcolm’s bedroom and struggles to speak. Through tears, he finally comes out. Malcolm, moved, embraces his son and assures him there’s nothing to be sorry for. The following morning, in the warm light of their hallway, Luke helps Malcolm prepare for a walk. In the mirror, their reflection stands side by side a quiet symbol of reconciliation and acceptance.