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Stop! That! Train!

By Golu
Coming out of the same studio that gave us RuPaul's Drag Race, and stacked with a whole crew of former contestants, Stop! That! Train! plays like RuPaul basically taking a bow for the entire franchise she's built. It's not really a gay film in the traditional sense, but with so many drag stars from Ru's shows popping up alongside a few cameos from well known out gay actors, I figured it earns a spot on this blog anyway. The whole thing is completely over the top, packed with GenZ slang, loud flashy visuals, and humor that's constantly winking at you knowing how ridiculous it is. Going in you'd assume it's meant to be a laugh riot, and a lot of critics online seem to be eating it up, but I just couldn't get into it at all. I've never really been someone who vibes with campy silly stuff like this, so honestly my reaction doesn't surprise me one bit. The setup follows Tess and DeeDee, two low level stewardesses who sneak onto the fancy Glamazonian E...
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Let's Eat Together, Aki and Haru: More Please (Japanese)

By Golu
Continuing with the ambiguous love story between Aki and Haru, the sequel of the original movie was much awaited. I was hoping that after having tread the lines of friendship in the original movie, this one will focus more on the actual budding romance and the feeling that the two boys share for one another. It happens but too late in the game. It's only in the last 5-10 minutes of the film when they confess their true feelings and something meaningful happens. Till that point, sadly it continues to be spiritual sequel while retaining the charm of the original film.

Aki and Haru have now lived together for 3 years and are now in their final year of university. The two friends cherish their mealtimes together, enjoying casual chats, playful jokes, and each other's company. They are both at the point where they are looking for a job. Aki is nervous about interviewing but he finally finds a job in home decor. The two friends are quite happy with the news. Haru continues his passion for photpgraphy and he knows that the job in that field would be limited. Knowing this he even declines a video editor job that he gets. Both friends have still doubts on what future holds for them. Closer to finishing the university, Aki gets to know that his job will be in Osaka, which means Haru will also have a look for a new house to live. His worst fear comes true of being away from Haru. He realizes that he is in love with Haru but decides to keep his feelings to himself. Almost towards the end of college year, Haru says that he doesn't want to move the house because it has memories with Aki and this is when Aki confesses that he is in love with Haru. Initially Haru is surprised but quickly realizes that all his feelings for Aki also are nothing but true love. The film ends with Aki moving to Osaka for job but frequently keeps visiting Haru continuing to make memories.

Just like the predecessor, the movie quickly settles into a familiar rhythm, reacquainting us with the two lovable leads. Both the boys are as goofy as before and we continue to see some delightful meals that Aki prepares. Although I do have to say that this time there were too many surprises when it comes to food. The film soon moves to the realistic challenges of two young adults preparing for life after graduation and the uncertainty that the life will bring for them. In that sense the film is very relatable. But then, I was looking for more love and romance and sadly that happens towards the very end of the film.  It acknowledges Aki and Haru's attraction instead of only implying they have a close relationship. I appreciate getting direct confirmation that they are interested in each other. Still the romance is timid, there is no kiss or much physical attraction; it still feels like bromance. Let's Eat Together, Aki and Haru: More Please has a happy ending as the couple plans their future together. The last few scenes show them laughing, goofing around, and sharing hearty meals. Their interactions seem sweet and genuine. The film is a feel good film, but nothing more than that to be honest. I expected a lot form from this sequel, so for me this will be strictly average fare. (5/10)
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