The latest film from writer-director Ira Sachs showcases a powerful and intense performance by Rami Malek. However, his exaggerated acting style and overt mannerisms may prove overwhelming, particularly as they are conveyed through relatively subdued dialogue, contrasting sharply with his more exuberant singing numbers. Malek’s unique approach to performance is reminiscent of actors like John Malkovich and Jeff Goldblum, but it thrives best when handled with subtlety in both direction and content. Unfortunately, the elements in this film fail to coalesce effectively.
The Man I Love explores the gay culture of 1980s New York during a time when Reagan-era homophobia was rampant. It depicts HIV-positive men grappling with their diagnosis against the backdrop of prevalent societal bigotry. In a particularly striking hospital scene, the cold and unsympathetic demeanor of the authorities is highlighted. Malek portrays Jimmy George, a beloved and charismatic actor and performance artist who has recently been discharged from a three-week hospitalization due to a life-threatening HIV-related incident. Now, he is set to star in a new theatrical production inspired by André Brassard’s 1974 film, Once Upon a Time in the East, where he plays the tempestuous and rebellious Hélène, a character who performs with a band.
Jimmy shares an apartment with his partner Dennis (played by Tom Sturridge), who bears the heavy burden of caring for him. Dennis is immediately wary of their attractive new British neighbor, Vincent (Luther Ford), fearing that an intimate encounter between the two could trigger Jimmy’s compulsive behaviors and jeopardize his recovery. Additionally, Jimmy’s sister Brenda (Rebecca Hall) visits along with her son and her disapproving husband Gene (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), who witness the complexities of Jimmy’s health and emotional struggles.
It remains uncertain whether Jimmy’s new theatrical venture, characterized by his flamboyant blonde wig and occasional lack of direction, will signify a fresh beginning for him. Tragically, it may instead serve as his farewell performance, one that exhausts the last remnants of his vitality. During a family gathering, we observe Jimmy deliver a forceful rendition of “What Have They Done to My Song Ma,” though he struggles to stay in tune. The chaotic and painful nature of the stage show further compounds this sense of impending finality.
Despite some redeeming moments, such as Brenda’s charming rendition of the Irish-flavored song “How Are Things in Glocca Morra?” from Finian’s Rainbow at a gathering in Jimmy and Dennis’s apartment, the film struggles to find its footing. Malek’s spirited recitation of the St Crispin’s Day speech from Henry V toward the film’s conclusion stands out as one of the highlights, showcasing a vibrancy that is missing from much of his other work. Sachs incorporates nostalgic elements that effectively evoke the essence of the 1980s, making it impossible to listen to Talking Heads’ “Crosseyed and Painless” without being transported back to that era.
The Man I Love is a film that comes from a place of genuine intention and thoughtful conception, yet Malek’s somewhat perplexing and forceful lead performance often feels out of sync with the overall narrative.
The Man I Love was screened at the Cannes Film Festival.
