Quick Cuts (Seattle): TAOS and FOR MY WIFE…

Posted on: Sunday, March 22nd, 2009
Comments: 3

taos-movieWhen a workaholic lawyer sputters off-road, his life quickly veers off-course, and the unexpected diversion may cause him to lose more than just billable hours, he may also lose his love. The script is not the strength of TAOS, its power derives from its titular setting. Shot on location, the movie relies heavily on its location both for the fateful magic of its story and the natural beauty of its visuals. Editors Megan Griffiths and Doug Loviska do commendable work; for the most part, TAOS outpaces its shortcomings. Ben McAllister‘s score is also a plus. Director Brandon Schmid may live in Seattle, but his first feature won the Best New Mexican Film at the 2008 Santa Fe Film Festival. TAOS suggests promise, indicative that a sophomore project may surpass mere regional rewards.

formywife2From a tragic death to the regressive triumph of Proposition 8, FOR MY WIFE…, follows a surprising trail to examine the necessity for equal rights for same-sex partners and the wisdom of legalizing gay marriage. Seattle-ites may be familiar with the documentary’s inciting incident — the awful, accidental demise of Kate Fleming who drowned in her own basement — but it is the aftermath uncovered by local news, that is the crux of this story. Compelled by the loss of her lover, Charlene Strong is reborn as an activist who helps rewrite Washington State law and inspires others, nationwide, to fight for spousal equality. Gloria Steinem, Kathy Griffin and TR Knight appear briefly, yet David Rothmiller always keeps tight focus on Charlene. Her message is the movie, and, if you are like- or open-minded you will appreciate her struggle, FOR MY WIFE… will be for you, too.


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