Rock Haven is a failure.
In this story of sexual identity conflicting with religious beliefs there could have been a profound message, but instead the film fails on every possible level. What should have been moving and insightful was instead shallow and uninspired, the script never rises above the bottom levels of mediocrity and the directing is passable at best. The performers really do try their best to make something out of the weak script, but with such superficial material it’s difficult to force sincerity or depth. The performances come across unprofessionally with dubious character choices but really it is the writing/directing that is insipid and one-dimensional. I was very, very disappointed with this movie especially after reading such glowing reviews of it, but the reality of this film is completely different then what the praises promise. The director doesn’t know how to work with actors, that is obvious, but he also doesn’t know how to let the scenes evolve into something more then just the very basic recitation of lines which never allows the emergence of genuine sentiment and emotion. Trite, boring and monotonous… this one may pander to those who are easily impressed or those who’ve been searching for a religious gay flick but to those who won’t be awed with dogmatic Christian pretense (which is sadly never developed) won’t be impressed with this movie. I have seen people compare this with the incredible film “Latter Days” but such a comparison is almost offensive. If you want a religious gay film that’s done right, see “Latter Days” and don’t waste your time with this one.
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