The movie was adapted from an Obie-Award winning Off-Broadway theater production. The movie set in Sydney, Australia,

The Sum of Us, contradicts the premise that a gay-positive themed movie could never be one accepted. Perhaps some

believe the Australians, are less hung up on sexuality than the States. But, I see it as being more accepting and tolerant

of each person differences. The Sum of Us received the 1994 Sydney Film Festival Best Feature Award. Along with, three

1994 Film Circle Critics of Australia awards, including Best Picture. Six Australia Film Institute nominations, which included

Although the movie is about a match making father and a gay son, it is not the only aspect. The relationship of a father and

his son is the main theme throughout the movie. The respect, affection and amount they truly care and love each other is

seen as the heartwarming theme of this movie. Mostly a comedy, a tragic side of the movie goes to show the closeness

Harry, Jack Thompson, is a rough and tumble retiree and his roommate Jeff, Russell Crowe, a shy very attractive 24-year-old rugby-player. They're father and son roomies, who get along swimmingly. Their relationship is heightened by Jeff's matter of

fact announcement that he's gay and not hiding in the closet. The dream of all who come out to their family, is that they will

be accepted at best and not kicked out of the house at worst. The manner in which Harry receives his son's revelation, exceeds just acceptance. Harry becomes very interested in Jeff's finding happiness in his love life. Thus, Jeff finds his father constantly meddling in his love life. As for Harry, he can't seem to control himself with his new found position as match-maker for his son.

It's resembles the 'Daddy's Little Girl Syndrome', seen in most heterosexual families. Harry suffers from, "Daddy's Gay Son

Syndrome" and is determined to find a the perfect love match for his gay son. Harry has no hang-ups about Jeff's sexuality

which is evident in his match making efforts. While Jeff is weary of getting his heart broken and efforts searching for love is

quite low key. Harry is constantly pushing Jeff to get out and meet new guys. At one point in the movie, Harry is seen to

entice Jeff and a friend to get busy on the sofa. Harry's acceptance of his son sexuality is tested in one instances in the

movie. When he meets a wonderful woman and is interested in marrying her. But, Harry does not mention Jeff's sexuality

and sadly, when he does, it to late. But, I won't go into further detail, not wanting to ruin to much of the contents of the movie.

I can only say, this movie offers much that makes it a must see. If your an emotional type, as I admit to, there are points you

may want to keep a tissue handy for. But, even though it has a few sad points, the off the cuff humor and message of just how

wonderful this father and son's relationship, will leave all who see it feeling warm and fuzzy.

I did do a search on this movie and found it is available on the net at VideoFlicks.Com at the best price. You can purchase it

on VHS for $9.99 and on DVD for $21.99. Use this link for ordering information.