Suddenly, Last Winter

New Zealand Premiere

TV presenter Gustav Hofer and film critic Luca Ragazzi are a committed couple, living a comfortable life in Rome. When right-winger Silvio Berlusconi’s government is replaced by a centre-left coalition, Italians are promised a new law increasing rights for unmarried and gay couples. Unfortunately, the proposed legislation granting same-sex rights, nicknamed the ‘DICOs,’ is stalled in the Senate in face of opposition by the Vatican, conservative politicians and family-values. With anti-gay sentiment running high, rallies are held, politicians are lobbied and wagons are circled. The violence of intolerant homophobic attacks, launched daily from the pulpits and national TV talk shows, reached such dramatic heights that even the more seasoned analysts and gay rights activists found worrisome.

It was in this the context and camera-in-hand, that Gustav and Luca decided to set off on a journey through their country, to explore and challenge the objections to their civil rights within a loving relationship. With a very light touch and a good measure of patience and humour, Gustav and Luca attempt to navigate the roadblocks, landmines and mind-boggling bureaucracy standing between themselves and their equal rights. The intrepid and at times reluctant filmmakers maintain a steady pace in this study of an ancient culture in flux and a modern couple in love. The result is in turn a hilarious and sobering reflection on Italian society.

While a relentlessly mischievous documentary about a literal life-and-death subject, Suddenly, Last Winter is also, in the end, a loving tribute to a happy union.