The Hollow Reed

The Hollow Reed is a heart-wrenching drama from 1996 that deals with complex themes of family, sexuality, and discrimination. The film tells the story of a young boy named Oliver (Sam Bould) who is caught in the middle of his parents' bitter divorce. Oliver's father, Martin (Martin Donovan), is a successful business executive who has recently separated from his wife, Hannah (Joely Richardson).

Martin is struggling to come to terms with his sexuality, and he decides to move in with his new partner, Tom (Ian Hart), a charming and caring man who quickly becomes a father figure to Oliver. However, Hannah is vehemently opposed to Martin's new relationship and starts to use Oliver as a pawn in their ongoing legal battles.

As Martin and Tom try to build a new life together, Oliver struggles to understand the changes happening in his family. He is forced to confront his own prejudices and biases as he starts to question the society's rigid gender norms and traditions.

The film is set against the backdrop of the late 90s, a time when homosexuality was still considered taboo and often met with hostility and discrimination. The Hollow Reed takes an unflinching look at the challenges faced by same-sex couples in a world that doesn't always accept them.

The film features powerful performances from its cast, particularly Sam Bould, who gives a standout portrayal of Oliver. Bould's open and honest portrayal of a child grappling with complex emotions is both touching and heart-wrenching.

Similarly, Martin Donovan delivers a nuanced performance as Martin, a man torn between his desires and his fear of society's judgment. Ian Hart lends warmth and depth to his role as Tom, a man determined to support his new family despite the many obstacles they face.

Director Angela Pope takes a hands-on approach to the sensitive subject matter, approaching it with a tenderness and empathy that avoids sensationalism. Instead, she allows the characters to tell their own stories, resulting in a film that feels honest and genuine.

The film's cinematography is another strength, with Pope using beautifully composed shots to convey the emotional weight of certain scenes. In particular, the film's final scenes are shot in a way that is both haunting and poignant, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

Overall, The Hollow Reed is a powerful and moving drama that tackles complex themes with nuance and empathy. It is a subtle yet heart-wrenching examination of family, sexuality, and the struggle to find acceptance in a world that often rejects difference. The outstanding performances of its cast, combined with its sensitive direction and beautiful cinematography, make it a film worth watching for anyone interested in exploring these important issues.