The indie film Departures has arrived on the scene with its first trailer, and it promises a roller coaster of emotions.
Filled with messy breakups, chaotic reconciliations, and intimate encounters, the movie is already generating buzz for its candid exploration of modern relationships.
Directed by Lloyd Eyre-Morgan and Neil Ely, this Manchester-produced comedy-drama follows two men who seem destined for both romance and heartbreak.
Lloyd Eyre-Morgan not only co-directs but also stars as Benji, whose impulsive airport meeting with Jake leads to a whirlwind connection.
David Tag, known for his work on the British soap Hollyoaks, brings depth and intensity to the role of Jake.
According to the film’s synopsis, Benji instantly finds himself captivated by Jake, a man who radiates both physical magnetism and elusive charm.
When Benji guesses that Jake might be “a bit gay,” sparks begin to fly, and the two embark on monthly getaways to Amsterdam.
Amid the seductive city lights, an undercurrent of tension arises, hinting at a looming power imbalance between the pair.
What begins as carefree fun gradually transforms into something more volatile, setting the stage for comedic highs and unsettling lows.
This daring project has been self-funded by a team of working-class LGBTQ+ filmmakers, emphasizing a grassroots approach to storytelling.
That sense of authenticity shines through in Departures, which is described as both raw and empathetic in its portrayal of same-sex romance.
Additional cast members include Liam Boyle, Saira Choudry, Kerry Howard, Olly Rhodes, Lorraine Stanley, Kimberly Hart-Simpson, Tyler Conti, Jacob Partali, Kelsea Knox, Ali Afzal, Oliver Sublet, and Jake Haymes.
The film is set to have its world premiere at the 2025 BFI Flare Film Festival on March 23, with a second screening scheduled for March 29.
This prestigious event has become a vital platform for groundbreaking LGBTQ+ cinema, making it a fitting venue for the unveiling of a project as personal and boundary-pushing as Departures.
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David Tag, in a recent interview with Digital Spy, revealed that his character Jake identifies as bisexual.
He explained that this role presented a challenge he had never before tackled, especially given that Jake struggles with his sexuality.
For director Lloyd Eyre-Morgan, the film draws inspiration from “real heartbreak,” which underscores why its plot is rich with palpable chemistry and emotional stakes.
Eyre-Morgan’s previous work includes the short film Closets, which garnered critical acclaim and won a Best of British Iris Prize.
His directorial credits also extend to episodes of EastEnders, Waterloo Road, and Hollyoaks.
With such a robust creative team, Departures aims to deliver a cinematic experience that resonates with audiences of all orientations.
Its frank portrayal of love, lust, and the messy complexities of life invites viewers to see a part of themselves in the characters’ trials and triumphs.
As the countdown to its premiere begins, buzz continues to build around Departures, raising expectations for a film that dares to be both humorous and heartbreakingly real in equal measure.