On the Other Hand, Death

On the Other Hand, Death is a 2008 independent drama/mystery film that stars Chad Allen, Sebastian Spence, and Margot Kidder. It is directed by Ron Oliver and is based on a novel by Richard Stevenson. The movie tells the story of a private investigator named Donald Strachey, who is hired to investigate the death of a young man whom the authorities have ruled a suicide.

The movie starts with Donald Strachey (played by Chad Allen) receiving a phone call from a distraught mother who tells him that her son has died and that she believes it to be murder, not suicide as the police have ruled. The mother tells him of her suspicions that a wealthy and influential gay couple is involved in her son's death. The couple in question (played by Sebastian Spence and Margot Kidder) are known for their extravagant parties and wild lifestyle, and the mother believes that they may have something to do with it.

As Strachey begins his investigation, he discovers that the deceased young man was a regular at the couple's parties, and he starts to uncover some dark secrets about their lifestyle. Along the way, Strachey also has to deal with opposition from the police, who are less than helpful in his quest for the truth.

The movie is a compelling drama that explores themes of sexuality, power, and deception. The dynamic between Strachey and the couple is particularly interesting, as they clearly have conflicting views about the morality of their lifestyle choices. Strachey is a traditionalist who believes in monogamy and a more conservative way of life, while the couple is unapologetically hedonistic and indulgent.

Chad Allen delivers a solid performance as an investigator who is driven to solve the case despite facing numerous obstacles along the way. He embodies the character of Strachey well, bringing a sense of determination and vulnerability to the role. Sebastian Spence and Margot Kidder also deliver nuanced performances, with Spence showcasing the darker side of his character's personality and Kidder providing a sense of glamorous charm and wit.

Director Ron Oliver does a great job of keeping the pace of the movie brisk and exciting, with plenty of unexpected twists and turns along the way. The movie also benefits from a strong sense of place, with the city of Albany, New York serving as an interesting setting for the story.

The movie's themes of sexuality and power are particularly relevant today, and the movie does a great job of exploring them in a thoughtful and nuanced way. Some may find the movie's explicit language and sexual content offensive, but many viewers will appreciate the movie's unapologetic honesty.

Overall, On the Other Hand, Death is a well-produced, well-acted, and engaging drama that will appeal to fans of mystery and detective movies. It offers a compelling story, interesting characters, and a thought-provoking take on contemporary issues.