It's My Party

It's My Party is a poignant and thought-provoking drama released in 1996. Directed by Randal Kleiser, who has also helmed classic films like Grease and The Blue Lagoon, It's My Party stars Eric Roberts, Gregory Harrison, and Margaret Cho, who deliver hard-hitting performances that stay with the audience long after the film has ended.

The film is a deeply emotional exploration of life, love, and dealing with terminally ill health without losing one's sense of self. Eric Roberts, known for his diverse roles in both film and television, leads the cast as Nick Stark, a man who learns he is in the terminal stages of an incurable cripple illness. The illness, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, leaves him with limited time before he loses all motor functions and mental capacities. Rather than allowing the disease to diminish his quality of life, Nick decides to end his life on his own terms. He plans a two-day party for his loved ones as a farewell.

Gregory Harrison gives a sensitively nuanced performance as Brandon Theis, Nick’s former lover. Their complex relationship becomes the emotional centerpiece of the narrative, woven with both tension and tenderness. In the midst of his personal plight, Nick attempts to reach closure and reconciliation with Brandon, providing the movie with some of its most touching moments.

Margaret Cho, a stand-up comic and actress known for her edgy humor and outspoken views, brings a lighter touch to her role as Charlene Lee, a friend of Nick's who attends the party. She provides a bittersweet mix of comic relief and emotional depth that counterbalances the film's heavy themes.

The film is largely set in Stark’s house, the location of the party. This setting provides an intimate backdrop, a microcosm of different relationships and emotions that are skillfully revealed through the progression of the party. Visitors filter in and out, each carrying their own perspective, feelings, and interactions with Nick.

Nick’s farewell party is not only a goodbye, it is also a celebration of his life. The film doesn't shy away from capturing all dimensions of this experience — the pain, the joy, the sadness, and the love. The party attendees are not merely his friends and family but also representations of the varying degrees of acceptance that society displays towards a decision like Nick's. Each guest is given enough depth to prevent them from being caricatures, offering snapshots of their complex emotional states ranging from understanding to resentment, from acceptance to denial.

It's My Party masterfully navigates themes of love, loss, illness, friendship, and end of life choices. It's not just a narrative about a gay man struggling with his approaching end, but a universal story about the struggle to find dignity and peace in the face of unavoidable death.

Its narrative draws on the director's own experiences with the AIDS epidemic and its impact on the gay community, adding a profound layer of authenticity and personal touch. The film is more than just a tear-jerker; it’s a striking portrait of human spirit and resilience in the face of despair and impending death.

While the subject matter could easily lend itself to over-sentimentality, Kleiser skillfully maintains a balanced tone throughout the film. He allows for humor and lightheartedness to break through the sadness, and uses the impending tragedy to enhance the value and beauty of life. The director employs sharp dialogue, seamless narrative transitions, and a well-designed soundscape which smartly complements the unfolding drama.

The ensemble cast does an excellent job with the film's emotionally challenging content. Roberts delivers a moving performance, navigating Nick's journey with tenderness, bringing out his vulnerabilities without ever losing his strength. Harrison, as the estranged lover, works brilliantly opposite Roberts, and Cho, stands out with her delicate portrayal of a close friend and emotional support.

It's My Party is a film that asks difficult questions about life, death, and everything in-between. It explores the strength it takes to face the end with dignity and to celebrate life in the shadow of impending death. A deeply moving and emotionally rich cinematic experience, It's My Party beautifully captures the complexity of human relationships, the power of reconciliation, and the courage of holding on to joy in the face of pain and fear.