Spoiler Alert: a movie review by Alex First
As the title suggests, the outcome is writ large at the start of the film, which is based on a best-selling memoir by Michael Ausiello.
Spoiler Alert is a 13-year love story between two guys.
Ausiello (Jim Parsons) is a sensitive journalist who writes about TV shows.
As a child, he dreamt of a sitcom with him at the centre of it and his family filling the other roles.
Ausiello is a hard worker, someone driven by his job and hardly a social butterfly.
Then, one day, a flamboyant gay colleague invites him to join him at a bar. After initially turning him down, Ausiello begrudgingly agrees.
It is there that he sets eyes upon photographer Kit Cowan (Ben Aldridge), who is muscular and assured.
Although the pair is very different, the chemistry between them is unmistakable.
The film showcases their resulting relationship, complete with highs and lows.
After Cowan is briefly hospitalised, Ausiello meets Cowan’s parents, who aren’t aware their son is a homosexual.
But far greater hurdles lie ahead.
Combining heart and humour, Spoiler Alert is an emotional and affecting journey.
The harsh reality of the story brings with it extra bite and power.
Director Michael Showalter (The Big Sick) ensures the film is imbued with pathos.
It has been well composed by writers David Marshall Grant and Dan Savage, from Ausiello’s book Spoiler Alert: The Hero Dies.
I greatly appreciated the nuance and quirks that Parsons brought to bear. He introduces Ausiello as a person who cares deeply.
As Cowan, Ben Aldridge comes across as somewhat of a devilish charmer … much more of a “player”.
Sally Field is a scene stealer as Cowan’s mum Marilyn – an effervescent and hyperactive chatterer.
She shines in her characterisation.
Although largely predictable, Spoiler Alert strikes a chord and deserves to find an appreciative audience.
Rated M, it scores a 7 out of 10. Running time 112 minutes
