Watch Seat In Shadow

Seat In Shadow is an independent British film from 2016 that tells the story of Albert (Henry Coombes), a gay man in his sixties who seeks help from a therapist named Conor (Ross Hunter) to deal with the anxiety and depression that have been plaguing him. The movie was written and directed by Henry Coombes, who also stars in it, and it won several awards at international film festivals.

The film takes place in Glasgow and features a small cast of characters with complex relationships. Albert is a retired painter who lives alone in a cluttered apartment filled with his art and books, and he has become increasingly isolated since his partner died. He struggles with feelings of inadequacy and fears that his talent and accomplishments were not enough to make a difference in the world. Conor is a psychotherapist with a practice in his home, who specializes in working with LGBTQ+ clients. He is married to Paul (Jonathan Leslie), who is also his assistant, and together they provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment for their clients.

The movie focuses on the relationship between Albert and Conor, which develops slowly over a series of therapy sessions. At first, Albert is hesitant and guarded, reluctant to share his deepest fears and desires with a stranger. He is skeptical of Conor's methods and questions his motives, wondering if he is just trying to cure him of his homosexuality. But Conor is patient and compassionate, and he listens to Albert with empathy and understanding. He helps him uncover the root of his problems, which stem from childhood traumas and a sense of shame and guilt that he has carried with him for decades.

As Albert opens up to Conor, he begins to see the world differently. He discovers a new sense of purpose and self-worth, and he starts to take risks and make connections with people he had previously avoided. He befriends a young artist named Charlie (David Sillars), who is struggling with his own demons and whom he mentors and guides. He also reconnects with an old friend named Edmund (Graeme Dallas), a successful painter who he admires but feels inferior to. And he explores his sexuality again, going to gay bars and hooking up with men, something he had not done since he was younger.

The movie is a poignant and honest portrayal of mental illness, sexuality, and aging. It does not shy away from difficult topics or uncomfortable situations, but it also has moments of humor and tenderness. The acting is superb, with Coombes delivering a nuanced and vulnerable performance as Albert, and Hunter balancing professionalism and warmth as Conor. Leslie is also excellent as Paul, who provides a calming presence in the midst of the turmoil.

Another notable aspect of the film is its artistic direction. Coombes, who is also a visual artist, infuses the movie with his signature style, which blends surrealism, pop art, and expressionism. The colors are bright and bold, the angles are off-kilter, and the sets are cluttered and eccentric. The result is a cinematic experience that feels both immediate and dreamlike, and that enhances the emotional impact of the story.

In conclusion, Seat In Shadow is a remarkable movie that deals with serious issues with sensitivity and intelligence. It offers a valuable perspective on the struggles of LGBTQ+ people, older adults, and mental health patients, and it does so in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It is a must-see for anyone who appreciates independent cinema with heart and soul.

Seat In Shadow is a 2017 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.0.