EDGE San Francisco

Although it certainly falls into some of the old clichéd pitfalls of most gay films, for the most part, Hollywood Je t’aime is an endearing, engaging, and well-produced movie from writer and first-time feature film director Jason Bushman. Topping the list of achievements is lead actor Eric Debets, who - although a fresh face to film both in Hollywood and his native France - brings a level of comfort, ease and believability to the screen; at least as much as the much more experienced Chad Allen.

A classic boy breakup story, the plot centers on Jerome (Debets), a gay Parisian recently out of a long-term relationship. When he finds himself alone and lonely, he decides a trip to sunny Southern California is in store- where surely he’ll meet the love of his life... in the form of a blonde surfer. Upon arrival he realizes that it’s not always warm in Los Angeles (quelle horreur!, and although he soon meets a blonde, he’s no surfer, but a small-time dope dealer with issues of his own.

As the dealer, Chad Allen’s character is more fleshed-out than many others we’ve seen him in and he handles it well, for the most part avoiding the formulaic. Supporting roles are also well cast, and in fact it’s these people - and their characters’ stories - that make the film truly interesting. A past-his-prime bingo-hosting drag queen (Michael Airington) and struggling trans streetwalker (Diarra Kilpatrick) lift the story - and the cast - to a level not always seen in films about gay life. Full of potential cliché, they instead bring a sense of purpose to the story and both parts are expertly played.

Debets is clearly the star, however, and will hopefully continue to rise. An actor who truly deserves to be in the spotlight, his talent and potential is clear to viewers; hopefully it will be as noticeable to casting agents as well.

A small budget semi-indie gay film, "extras" are limited, as one might expect. A few Deleted Scenes, and Commentary, however, prove interesting, rounded out by the Theatrical Trailer.