Did you see Jeroen's face expression when the doctor referred to Chris's "sexual contacts after that" (as in plural).... my heart broke in a thousand pieces for him
so did mine....as when he told his ex in such loving terms/affection and then his actions after he got the results was so cruel and aloof, i felt so really bad :(
This was very well acted but in particular the actor who played Jeroen is exceptionally good - his facial expressions, the way he engaged then looked away, he conveyed so many emotions in a very short period of time and with a limited amount of dialogue. Both were good in their roles so perhaps the reason I was so impressed by him is the fact that I've walked in those shoes in real life. Marvelous 👏🏻
I find it interesting that at the end Chris tells Jeroen to “keep in touch.” However, had Chris tested positive it seems that he would have relied quite heavily upon Jeroen. I’m certain his comment would have been different. And it seems that Jeroen would’ve been there for Chris as well. To me, it’s a reflection of life that often times those who are there and are most dependable are also, sometimes, those who are easily and frequently disposed. I feel for Jeroen because I can relate.
Mike Tripp absolutely, that prick just blew right out of there. No consideration for Jeroen or his time etc. How often in life has this been the case? More than I care to say.
i think people like Joeren aren't appreciated enough, BECAUSE they will always be there. It's only when you want someone and they don't come that you realize how much you should have appreciated them.
That's what happens when you get involved with a liar and a cheat. I like how we get a sense that Jeroen is heartbroken but done with him by not having him take him to his bike.
Rick Funes I have been there my partner of 13yrs cheated on me for over a year tho I suspected he was. When I finally found out after realising the truth he wanted to spend half the week with his lover and half with me , wtf ? Also asked to borrow money from me (a usual request which he never paid back ) I told him to ask his lover and he said he wouldn’t lend me any?. Next day I told him to piss of . He was astonished and said and asked where he could go. I just said start with your lover who was a closet case. Took me a long time to get over the betrayal.
@@johnoakes4143 I'm sorry that happened to you. It's no wonder we become so cynical and jaded when we are older. We start to think that relationships based of love, honesty, and faithfulness are the exceptions instead of the expected.
@@johnoakes4143 good for you to take a stand, I can understand the strength and the strong will that someone needs to come up strong and be dignified again.
Yes.... We can see the sadness in his eyes yet to say he was still cared for him, until the moment he decided to walk by himself... Jeroen different facial expressions are priceless...saying them clear through his eyes... Good acting
Excellent movie, great actors, I like Jeroen a lot. A faithful friend, he came although they separated. His ex does not appreciate him enough. Incidentally, he found out that his ex had more contacts than the one he said. His ex did not ask him to go for a coffee or for a walk. Jeroen deserves a better partner than his ex. I am Dutch and was pleasantly surprised to hear the Dutch language.
Yes the movie did a good job of showing that Chris was plain trash. Notice how twice he simply ignores Jeroen. Once when they meet up outside the clinic and next when they leave the clinic. He's texting someone else when Jeroen who selflessly came to support him stands and watches. That was a brilliant way of showing how much Chris cared about Jeroen in return. So much was done in a short time. Painful but beautiful !
I am praying that may God's healing hands continue to be upon you. May you live and enjoy life and have everything that makes you happy through the highs and lows. God loves you and is always by your side. May HE comfort you and your loved ones through it all. Have a beautiful day and Life!!!!
Jeroen is such a loyal, caring friend, my heart just aches for him. How could anyone ever let someone like him become an "ex" anything, especially an ex-boyfriend? 🙁 Chris sure doesn't deserve him, he's lucky to still have him as the friend he is.
I'm not sure if Jeroen is really an honest. Why would he lie to Chris when he told him that he took the tram? Also, why Jeroen did not take the test at the clinic as well as depicted in the film? What was Jeroen afraid of?
@@badworld02 Jeroen and Chris may have always used protection, or they may have never had sex together, unlikely but possible, as Chris "claimed" he'd never had unprotected sex with anyone until this current unknown person. Also, perhaps Jeroen had already been tested and knew he was negative, in addition to always using protection when he was intimate with someone, including Chris. At any rate, this wonderful film's focus is on what a P.O.S. Chris is, and what a loyal and "walked on" friend Jeroen is. (Plus, we're shown how Jeroen isn't the same person he was when he was with Chris, when he tells Chris he's quit smoking.)
@@gossimer3 I got your point. You seem to have a very trusting heart and affection for people who seemed to be kind, handsome and underdog. Do not get me wrong. There is nothing wrong about it and its cool. Just do not forget too much of it can be risky and dangerous though. Sometimes not all good guys who seemed kind and good-hearted are really good. Just a thought. Take care
badworld02 r u kidding me... The other guy cheated on him w a guy who was infected most likely, he lied about just being one guy so he cheated on him w other guys... Jeroen doesn't owe shyt to his ex, it's the other way around... He deserves better because his ex is a liar n a cheater two things I hate so much... He doesn't deserve his friendship or forgiveness
An excellent actor. His eyes, facial expressions in all angle suggest truthful acting. An 11 minutes acting captured the entire emotion of a faithful person. He should get award here for that powerful display of genuine talent 🏆👏
Jeroen dodged a bullet regarding Chris. Chris is fortunate to still have Jeroen as part of his life but Chris is not worthy of Jeroen's' friendship. Jeroen is a much better man and is deserving of a more honorable partner. This situation should serve to confirm to Jeroen why Chris is (and should remain) an "ex."
I think that's what the ending of the movie dealt with. Jeroen came with Chris to the clinic coz he's a wonderful person and he can't stop caring about someone just overnight. But the unsafe sexual contact in question was during their relationship. I thought that was the reason they broke up. Then Jeroen listens to the doctor say that Chris had other exploits too ( may be some of them during their relationship). Even Chris looked over at Jeroen to make sure he was okay with that piece of information. That's when Jeroen made the decision to move on. That's when he got closure I think. Was a really well done movie. Really sad but really well done.
@@shivshukla4394 -The idea that Chris had affairs while still in a relationship with Jeroen wasn't obvious to me. My impression was that they broke up and during that post relationship period, Chris screwed around. And Jeroen was in the dark about what Chris had been doing since the break-up. The details came out only at the clinic. In any case, my sense, totally unsupported by given information, is that Chris has trouble with commitment and intimacy which are the qualities that Jeroem is looking for. The end of the film is a time when Jer has to come to terms with the fact that Chris isn't capable, at this point, of being what Jeroen needs.
@@renzo6490 yes what you're saying may as well be right . My opinion is unsupported as well obviously. But I drew my conclusion from the fact that they tried to show the tension about those exploits of Chris in 2 scenes. And those 2 scenes were always like the defining moments of Jeroen making his decision, atleast that's what I felt. But I may as well be wrong. Yours sounds less painful anyways. I hope that's true 🙂.
@@shivshukla4394 -In any case, it was a thoughtfully and intelligently made little film. I noticed how their tense connection was contrasted by the two men who walk out of the consultation room happy and relieved together. And, in the past, Jeroen and Chris both smoked. But Jer, perhaps jolted by the need to take better care with his health, quit. Chris, doesn't. Does this tell us that Chris is addicted in a way that Jeroen wasn't? Is Chris a sex addict.too? That might be a stretch. But why include the matter of smoking in the film, then? It's a great story for evoking discussion, isn't it?
@@renzo6490 I agree with you on all of those. The chain smoking definitely had some references hinting at other issues in their relationship too 🙂 And yes it was a beautiful movie. The attention given to those silent moments of just waiting was so brilliant. Loved it !
The acting and the editing in this short were excellent. That the subtleties of their relationship and the situation could be fleshed out so fully in such a short film speaks well for all involved. Thanks for sharing.
I've been in that situation a couple of times taking friends in for a HIV test. Some weren't as lucky with the results. I was out in the beginning of the AIDS crisis, I lost many friends at the time. There was a page in the High School reunion book of the many that died from AIDS. I'd taken HIV tests in the beginning, it took two weeks to get the results. Enough time to make you crazy with worry. At that time in the 80's a positive test result equaled a death sentence. I'm so thankful now that it's no longer the case and with the right medication people can live a long normal life now. I saw too many people die during that time. Everyone still needs to practice safe sex and get tested at min once each year. You are responsible for your own health.
Daniel Cornellisen is an amazing actor. The almost imperceptible nodding of a “reluctant ok” was masterful and worthy of a much more seasoned professional. Great work!
Jeroen's reaction when he heard that Chris had another "safe" encounter after the unsafe one breaks my heart into pieces like hey wait I think I've been in that situation before so I know how it feels Jeroen.
Stunning production,proof if it's ever needed just how emotive a short can be,if one has the right writer,actors and of course director💥👊💯🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Kudos to yourself and everyone involved👏👏👏Very pleased to have caught this beautifully nuanced film. Best wishes to you,yours & anyone reading this ,at this very strange time in the world👋🌟✌
People seem to complain about Chris sparing no affection to Jeroen and crying on Jeroen being disposed. I personally think that it's a matter of choice and self-awareness. When you understand your self-worth and value, no one can dispose you.
Story: Excellent, authentic and touching. Structure: The film-making axiom of "Show it, don't say it" is searingly alive in this. The understated reaction from Jeroen after the doctor's comment about notification said volumes -- really splendid direction and acting. The two men going in and coming out told their entire experience without dialogue. This is thoughtful and skilled film craft.
Great slice of life movie. It reminded me of when I was much younger and used to get into new relationships too quickly and end up with guys I didn’t really know well enough to be in a relationship with. Those rushed relationships always ended in disappointment. There’s no reason to rush into any new relationship, much safer to go slowly and get to really know someone for who they really are before trusting them, especially with your life. ❤
Very well acted, an excellent script holding the viewer's attention to the end where it becomes obvious that one man is of quality, the other is a liar, and better left to his own devices. There was just one buddy in the friendship.
Daniel Cornelissen's face ( Jeroen) is one of the most expressive I have ever seen. Even if he didn't pronounce any words, absolutely everything wuould be understood. Stunning!!!!
Niels, you are a very competent filmmaker. This is one of the best films I have ever seen. It is so much better than most of the gay-themed films made in the United States. Part of the film's strength lies in what it does not say. The fine actors--and you, as the director--convey everything with very few words.
when somebody isn’t committed to improve their habits; a positive transformation of life will never come, and this story reflects that self love is more important than caring for someone which aim is destroying themselves, never let somebody drags you to their chaos, let them go, never let somebody uses you to fill their emptiness
"never let somebody uses you to fill their emptiness". I think that should have been the title of the film. At least in the film he soon found out, in real life you can be the only one unaware of it for years.
Compassion towards other human beings as a very beautiful thing. If you’re secure and strong you can still have a relationship with somebody who is failing and lost. You just need boundaries. There are lots of good people who have been broken in someway. It’s the strong people that they are attracted towards.
I remember watching this a long time ago and have just revisited the film at your suggestion! It is very beautiful. The sexual tension but dawning love between the 2 men, has you on the edge of your seat. It’s maddening, and you urge them to see what we can see! The actors are superb. The chemistry between them is extraordinary.
The moment when you realize that there were reasons why you couldn't be with the asshole anymore and that he hasn't changed. To say so much with so few words - not everyone can do that. Thanks to everyone who worked on this film - it is definitely one of the best short films I have ever seen!
Daniel (Jeroen) is a marvelous actor, held the entire clip together: his maturity, his tolerance, his affection, all convey so well: his old boyfriend surely better that he is an old boyfriend: the narcissism of the boyfriend is so shocking, almost revolting, as Jeroen's intensity, unwavering support, comes through so well. That the biyfriend uses people for whatever, sex, friendship, fillers, etc., also is well acted but somehow misses the needed edge. Jeroen last few moments on the screen as he reflects as to how he has been used, exploited, mocked almost was the best Daniel acted. Bravo. Did the cat really die? Daniel even took the train...
I think he has someone else and was using the sweet, hurt Jeroen. Utterly selfish and thoughtless person. I believe his partner's infidelity broke the relationship and now Jeroen is heartbroken. Exceptionally well played! 💜👍
All it took was a moment to ruin a relationship. But the fact that Joeren went to the clinic shows the courage it takes to stand by his ex when things got sideways, to be there for whatever comes next for both of them.
Excellent movie clip. I almost could hear the thought process of him thinking, hell, I should get tested too. Thank you for the HIV poke. Blessings to you all for your hard work making this. Definitely stay safe kids! Hugs, pam (or grams)
Great subject matter for a film. It was very subtle as the emotions can run very deep with this situation for many young men. Not excluding women. The main point here is safe sex protects you from the chaos that can consume your whole life.
At the end, I find it interesting that Chris tells Jeoron, “keep in touch.” I sense had Chris tested positive that he would’ve relied heavily upon him and he would have willingly been there for Chris. So Chris only sees him as someone to have around when he is in need and when times are bad. But when times are good, he has no use for him. So many people do that to individuals who possess a sense of character and duty. I can relate to Jeoron.
Thought I would add some more ideas - after reading 217 comments! :) Some of the comments made me think " did we just watch the same film?" LOL But that is what makes art (film/music/books/etc) so wonderful. I am guessing that it was not supposed to be completely clear. I just re watched it before writing this. I had pretty much the same reactions/interpretations as the 1st time. I didn't assume that "the guy" happened during their relationship but that Chris had shared this "mistake/carelessness" with is ex (his buddy) due to his not having any other close friends in his life - if indeed he was only into casual hook ups. And Jeroen, being the kind person and friend he is, was willing and even eager to support this man (friend/former lover) in any way he could. If these episodes (the unprotected guy and the other "safe" encounters) happened after the break up, there is less mendacity on Chris' part - but still very hurtful to Jeroen. Since it seemed that he still had very strong feelings for Chris. But, it could also make sense that these happened before the break up and therefore would be cause for concern health wise as well as feeling betrayed/lied to. I liked how the texting bookended (ok sorry not a real word ) the film as he was texting even after Jeroen arrived, ignoring him briefly and then again at the end. The acting IMHO was superb! I also wondered if he was going to go back in to get tested - but that wouldn't make sense if Chris had already told him - which he obviously had since they were going to the clinic for that reason - and then Jeroen would have been also going to get tested. But it would not be a stretch to wonder if Chris had been unfaithful during. OK, sorry for being so long winded. Is there a limit on how long these can be? :) Great short film!
That's why he didn't want you in the room, to face you being the liar he is, and more than likely during your relationship. So glad you are done with him, let him be.
I understand that out of the kindness and love in your heart I too would have taken my ex to their appointment but i felt a sense of neglect and manipulation of his emotions. But like his ex literally just walked out his life again. Like if he was positive, would he felt this obligation or expectation to get back together or take care of him?
I think when Jeroen found it, it clicked for him that he needs to stop being there for people that probably wouldn't be there for him in return. This is gold.
Very deep. I believe Love which fades away and took for granted is not love. True love will stick by your side at every stage of your life. I would never support my ex like this.
Aw, the gay life - the world treat you like less than - shitty, and then we turn around and treat each other the same. There's a clinical word for it...
‘Negative’ along a number of fronts. Is there a follow-up with Jeroen’’s story? His reaction to the doctor talking about “sexual contact” was a landscape of grief. Subbed.
Nice short film which succinctly summarizes certain aspects of some relationships. That said, some here are making too much of it or reading too much into it, which says much more about who's writing the comment than about the film itself.
WOW . . . true, it's a short Film . . . but soooo GOOD! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻🤗🤗🤗👏🏻👏🏻 Sometimes it's really amazing, how stubborn Guys can be. Well done, great to see this act. NICE👍🏻👍🏻🔥🔥💪🏻
When they first started to speak I was confused because I expected them to speak English, then I felt stupid because it took me a few seconds to recognize my own Native language, German. Then I realized they don't even speak German. Well, it's late.
reading the comments, i suspect this film is being widely misinterpreted. Chris didn't lie - there was only one incident of cheating. The subsequent sexual contacts were with Chris' new boyfriend, obviously the one he texts with the news. Jeroen was under the mistaken impression that chris was interested in getting back together but Chris had already moved on
I found this so deeply moving. I've watched it a few times, and with every viewing my heart breaks for the man who's left behind. It's a credit to very good acting to see all the many words unspoken through Jeroen's eyes and expressions. But in life there are rarely the Happy Endings we dream of or swoon over in the abrupt ending of a film. So often the scenario reveals the loyal and loving partner ill-fitted with the one who only has eyes for the next fix. Makes you wonder if the romantic man subconsciously seeks the evasive playboy. And I still haven't quite figured out why he lies about having travelled with the tram, and not his bicycle. Perhaps to avoid the probable café visit - not willing to spend more time with the love who keeps you at arm's length?
