33 reviews
Time out in Tel Aviv
Another superior gay-themed movie from Eytan Fox, the Israeli director of Cupcakes and Yossi and Jagger, among others. It's a simple, but well-observed story about a moment between two gay men from different cultures and different generations. Best of all, it's a showcase for the talents of John Benjamin Hickey, excellent in so many US TV series, from The Big C to Manhattan. It's nice to see him as the leading man. And he's well-matched by Niv Nissem, a young actor with the looks and charisma to make his character, who pretty much embodies the arrogance of youth, attractive. Sublet is also a pretty good snapshot of Tel Aviv, and of Israeli youth. I particularly liked Daria, the would- be dancer who decides she's going to rebel by being completely selfish. Worth the effort if you're in the mood for an intelligent, gentle, quietly moving movie.
Delightful film closes the Generation Gap
- tm-sheehan
- Jul 10, 2021
- Permalink
What a beautiful and touching experience!
Great acting, amazing concept and storyline. It moved me to tears at some moments and it make me burst out loud in others. Such honest portrait of human beings. I'm so glad to have met those characters.
- bruno_dreamer
- Apr 1, 2021
- Permalink
A film to feel
There may not be much happening in the story, but it draws you in very much. There is subtlety in emotions, making it a film to feel.
Confusing themes
- dalehitchy
- Jul 4, 2023
- Permalink
Not your usual travelog
A Jewish-American travel writer returns to Tel-Aviv for the 1st time as an adult. He is staying for 5 days, intending to write an article about non-tourist Tel-Aviv. He sublets an apartment rather than stay in a hotel, where the occupant, a pansexual, commitment-free university student of film studies, is planning on couch-surfing with friends for the duration. The writer ends up hiring the student to show him his world, while dealing with a disagreement with his husband back home.
There is an interesting view of what actual student life might be like, with glimpses of the cultural viewpoints of young Israelis, especially in contrast with older Americans - e.g. the writer is appalled that young artists are interested in hip Berlin as a career destination. There are also interesting reflections of what others see of you.
There is an interesting view of what actual student life might be like, with glimpses of the cultural viewpoints of young Israelis, especially in contrast with older Americans - e.g. the writer is appalled that young artists are interested in hip Berlin as a career destination. There are also interesting reflections of what others see of you.
With reservations
I tend not to watch Israeli films for a number of reasons but made an exception in this case. I remembered why not quite soon into the film seeing the usual cliches were here too. The theme of the film was interesting enough for me to plough on though and it was worth it.
The plot? Well, would even a bohemian student have forgotten he was renting his flat out? OK, there had to be a device for getting Michael and Tomer together so that was as good as any, I guess. And in the circumstances of the two disparate guys getting to know each other something similar had to drive the story on.
The film did touch on some themes that are important and the one that struck me was how people change. Michael told Tomer and Daria that "in his day" people protested and had changed the world; they didn't run away. However, what an utter stuffed shirt he had become in later life wearing pyjamas and shocked at Grindr. Surrogacy and fidelity were also touched upon, not in any profound way but more as part of a story that explained some of the events of the film.
I have to admit that the revelation of the tragedy during the visit to the kibbutz didn't affect me emotionally as it appeared to have done to some reviewers. I was glad to see the culmination of our odd couple's relationship and the film ended in the way it should have - Michael would never have unwound enough for any spontaneous moves after the events of the previous night. And I got an impression that Tomer's tears were for his lost father which was a nice touch at the departure. Seeing him ride his stolen bike again at the end was a liberating experience for the audience and for him; I liked this ending.
So, despite my misgivings as mentioned above, I quite enjoyed this film. It was the right length and well enough constructed to hold the interest throughout.
The plot? Well, would even a bohemian student have forgotten he was renting his flat out? OK, there had to be a device for getting Michael and Tomer together so that was as good as any, I guess. And in the circumstances of the two disparate guys getting to know each other something similar had to drive the story on.
The film did touch on some themes that are important and the one that struck me was how people change. Michael told Tomer and Daria that "in his day" people protested and had changed the world; they didn't run away. However, what an utter stuffed shirt he had become in later life wearing pyjamas and shocked at Grindr. Surrogacy and fidelity were also touched upon, not in any profound way but more as part of a story that explained some of the events of the film.
I have to admit that the revelation of the tragedy during the visit to the kibbutz didn't affect me emotionally as it appeared to have done to some reviewers. I was glad to see the culmination of our odd couple's relationship and the film ended in the way it should have - Michael would never have unwound enough for any spontaneous moves after the events of the previous night. And I got an impression that Tomer's tears were for his lost father which was a nice touch at the departure. Seeing him ride his stolen bike again at the end was a liberating experience for the audience and for him; I liked this ending.
So, despite my misgivings as mentioned above, I quite enjoyed this film. It was the right length and well enough constructed to hold the interest throughout.
Not just a Brief Encounter
Gotta love it when you take a chance on an unknown "quirky little independent film" and it turns out to be a well-written, well-acted piece of work.
The story plays out well mainly because the writing is good and the interaction between the two main characters is enjoyable to watch unfold. You think you know where things are going to go...which they don't necessarily do in the way you might expect.
It's also fun to watch because of the interesting little details that you might miss if you're not paying attention to (e.g., breakfast habits that someone was apparently lying about!) It's cool to hear the older travel writer's story unfold, and it's certainly enjoyable to watch the younger character simply because he's adorable. Fortunately, he can act, too, and has his own worthwhile story. Finally, the character of the mother adds an entertaining element towards the end.
The ending may or may not be what you're expecting going in....I'll just leave it at that. In sum, I was glad that this was yet another "overlooked" little film that turned out to be more worth my time than most Hollywood schlock getting cranked out these days. Give it a look!
- robtyrrell-98607
- Mar 7, 2021
- Permalink
Pls put this on Netflix
Life change to each other when they meet. It's about two extreme character of gays get together and how they change each others. It's quite a easy and comfy movie when watch with all the small things make you happy and sad. I would say it's a recent best gay movie I watched. Can't believe only 26 reviews n 2k rating on this movie only, need promote good movies like this.
A breath of fresh air
I was immediately drawn to this movie for two main reasons. 1. It has John Benjamin Hickey, who I recently became familiar with from Mapplethorpe (knowing an actor in a low budget gay movie means a lot), and 2. It focuses on an older guy (I'm exclusively interested in intergenerational relationships, and I'm a little burnt out on gay films with high schoolers).
Is it good? For the most part, yes. JBH is a good casting choice, I correctly predicted a lot about his character just by observing him. The rest of the cast is good too, and the direction is solid. I'm used to watching tons of micro budget gay films, so simply having decent acting and a director who knows how to work a camera places this towards the top.
The story might not be for everyone. It is deliberately paced, and there's not much drama. You spend most of the film getting to know the two leads, what makes them different, and what makes them connect. The tone is mostly light and fun except for one scene in particular, so it makes for a decent film to put on if you don't want to get too depressed. There's not really any homophobic bullying or violence, which that alone makes it stand out from most of the gay cinema I've experienced.
Overall, I liked pretty much everything about it, especially the characters. I don't know if it makes my top 10 gay films, but it's certainly close. If it interests you, I'd highly recommend it.
Is it good? For the most part, yes. JBH is a good casting choice, I correctly predicted a lot about his character just by observing him. The rest of the cast is good too, and the direction is solid. I'm used to watching tons of micro budget gay films, so simply having decent acting and a director who knows how to work a camera places this towards the top.
The story might not be for everyone. It is deliberately paced, and there's not much drama. You spend most of the film getting to know the two leads, what makes them different, and what makes them connect. The tone is mostly light and fun except for one scene in particular, so it makes for a decent film to put on if you don't want to get too depressed. There's not really any homophobic bullying or violence, which that alone makes it stand out from most of the gay cinema I've experienced.
Overall, I liked pretty much everything about it, especially the characters. I don't know if it makes my top 10 gay films, but it's certainly close. If it interests you, I'd highly recommend it.
- yoshinaruto
- Oct 1, 2021
- Permalink
Somewhat a little subdued, but still charming.
It's a low-key drama film with a warming performance from the always splendid John Benjamin Hickey. It's offers nothing new actually. Been done before. Yet still able to deliver some charms. Besides any Eytan Fox film is always a fine little treat.
- pasaribuharisfadli
- Dec 5, 2021
- Permalink
Unexpected gem!
Beautifully written, funny, charming and moving at the same time, this movie is a little gem that had me smiling all the way through and that even brought a tear to my face.
I was surprisingly happy by how the story developed and how great and dynamic the chemistry between the two main characters was (Tomer's character is very well thought through).
The finale was touching and clearly showed the movie's overall efforts of bringing two generations closer. A must watch!
No chemistry, no substance
Would be better if Tomer wasn't such an insufferable mess of a character. The script tries so hard to portray him as different, artsy, young and wild that the character itself becomes very clichè. Exactly what he would hate. And it's not the only problem with the script. There seemed to be a good sexy idea hidden somewhere in here, but the execution isn't good or sexy, either. All the hot scenes miss the mark and the chemistry between the protaginists is nowhere to be found. Similarly, the funny scenes are awkward and when the film did make me laugh it was never intentional. I give the movie points for cinematography because it looks pretty, but, other than that, pretty forgettable.
10 out of 10 for john Benjamin hickey!!
Sublet is a artistically beautiful film. Cinematography was great. And John benjamin hickey was perfectly casted as Michael green. The dinner scene where he describe about thie child, that scene broke me. I felt his pain. John was splendid in this movie. And...... It was really hard to find the movie.
- olinkhan-75058
- Feb 27, 2021
- Permalink
Not the tourist's Tel Aviv
Sublet (2020) was co-written and directed by Eytan Fox.
John Benjamin Hickey plays Michael, a middle-aged travel writer for the New York Times. Michael visits Tel Aviv as part of his work.
He sublets an apartment from Tomer (Niv Nissim). Michael invites Tomer to stay in the apartment, and Tomer becomes his guide to the real Tel Aviv.
Michael is gay. Tomer is young and bisexual. The plot revolves around whether their friendship will turn to intimacy.
I enjoyed this film. The actors are excellent, and I learned more about non-tourist Tel Aviv.
We saw this movie virtually as part of the always outstanding Rochester Jewish Film Festival. The movie has a tepid IMDb rating of 6.9. I thought that it was better than that, and rated it 8.
John Benjamin Hickey plays Michael, a middle-aged travel writer for the New York Times. Michael visits Tel Aviv as part of his work.
He sublets an apartment from Tomer (Niv Nissim). Michael invites Tomer to stay in the apartment, and Tomer becomes his guide to the real Tel Aviv.
Michael is gay. Tomer is young and bisexual. The plot revolves around whether their friendship will turn to intimacy.
I enjoyed this film. The actors are excellent, and I learned more about non-tourist Tel Aviv.
We saw this movie virtually as part of the always outstanding Rochester Jewish Film Festival. The movie has a tepid IMDb rating of 6.9. I thought that it was better than that, and rated it 8.
A subtle and touching film
The story is subtle and touching. It tells a good story of both the simplicity and complexity of human relations. We can never be defined by one ROLE or one NAME. And love and passion also could have different forms.
- friendshipjohn
- Mar 12, 2021
- Permalink
Another Eytan Fox gem
I have been waiting for this movie to come out for ages, and so glad it finally did.
The story is poignant, and quite moving. With excellent performances by John Benjamin Hickey and Niv Nissim. Great cameo by veteran Miki Kam. It reflects such an accurate representation of a certain sector of gay Tel Aviv, it could have been a documentary!
No spoilers, but I cried at the end.
The story is poignant, and quite moving. With excellent performances by John Benjamin Hickey and Niv Nissim. Great cameo by veteran Miki Kam. It reflects such an accurate representation of a certain sector of gay Tel Aviv, it could have been a documentary!
No spoilers, but I cried at the end.
- stevedgrossman
- Jun 18, 2021
- Permalink
Kinda boring
It's not something very new. The dialogues are kinda weird and the acting is not quite sharp (except for the legendary John Benjamin Hickey).
The plot is overall very shallow, and the scenes of JBH talking to his husband via Skype are extremely boring, unrealistic and not sophisticated.
Plus the references to the Palestinians and the holocaust are very forced, very very shallow and just show the lack of diversity among hipsters in Tel Aviv.
It's cute, that's all.
The plot is overall very shallow, and the scenes of JBH talking to his husband via Skype are extremely boring, unrealistic and not sophisticated.
Plus the references to the Palestinians and the holocaust are very forced, very very shallow and just show the lack of diversity among hipsters in Tel Aviv.
It's cute, that's all.
I need to go to Tel Aviv!
- bgoo-19890
- Nov 17, 2021
- Permalink
Waiting on a sequel
- wcorn-93985
- Aug 27, 2021
- Permalink
Nice to watch
John Benjamin Hickey, Niv Nissim, Tel Aviv! And all three intrinsically and visually erotic. Enough to enjoy!
Beautifully crafted little gem
I have been waiting for this movie for almost a year and it doesn't disappoint. A well layered storyline creating heart from its realness. Moving, touching, & tender ! I Loved the feel that the cinematography and Score provide, to give it that sweet elusive feeling. A must See ^^
- a-cosmic-ritual
- Jul 12, 2021
- Permalink
Not a new plot
For a change the location has been chosen as Tel Aviv. (but why?) There is nothing glitzy to keep you hooked. However, the slow-paced drama isn't boring if haven't watched any other moving centered on gay life or surrogacy.
Try the Danish Girl or Mimi.
Try the Danish Girl or Mimi.
This could be my life
I felt like someone had been watching my life and decided to make a movie. The characters felt so real and genuine and the acting was excellent. But what really got me was the story, the situation, the struggle to feel, and be heard by others.
I predicted the ending but it was more as if that is the ending I knew that had to be. So often movies feel they need to give a twist or surprise in order to feel justified. But watching this film was like watching a beautiful flower come into bloom. You knew where it was going and you watched with anticipation for it to be revealed, knowing it was a splendid thing.
At a time when the world seems out of control, it was satisfying to be told a wonderful story filled with warmth, joy of living, willingness to be honest without being mean, and above all a story of healing and learning how to keep on trying to live the best we can.
I predicted the ending but it was more as if that is the ending I knew that had to be. So often movies feel they need to give a twist or surprise in order to feel justified. But watching this film was like watching a beautiful flower come into bloom. You knew where it was going and you watched with anticipation for it to be revealed, knowing it was a splendid thing.
At a time when the world seems out of control, it was satisfying to be told a wonderful story filled with warmth, joy of living, willingness to be honest without being mean, and above all a story of healing and learning how to keep on trying to live the best we can.
Beautiful
Brilliant, moving, earnest, heartfelt, painfully sweet.
- drkavitha_k
- Jul 26, 2021
- Permalink