thesar-2 As close to a masterpiece a gay-themed movie can be, I've now seen 'Big Eden' eight times. And all eight times, they've got the same emotional response (well, let's say I cry at the appropriate times) from me. I loved this movie, this pure fantasy so much, I don't view it so much as a "gay-themed" movie as much as I see it as a great romantic film, beautifully shot. We have Henry, who, after being raised by his grandfather in the northwestern American city of "Big Eden," left for the "Big Apple" only to be called back home due to Grandpa's stroke. There he learns his growing-up best mate-crush returned at the same time. It's touching how Henry tries to rekindle those feelings with Dean, whom Henry had to have therapy to get over. Under the radar is Pike, a local who is dealing with both feelings for Henry and his own sexuality. As little as his character speaks, you truly feel his longing to be with Henry and to make him happy. Henry's messed up, however, he's so unfocused on life (I'm sure a lot of us can feel the same way; I do) he can't see 2 feet in front of him. Even the great Louise Fletcher delivers a great speech involving his "wandering." (This and the following scene, by the way, is what breaks me – see previous comments – each/every time.) Sure, it's predictable and unrealistic (even in this day and age, it's hard to believe such a small town would be so accepting of homosexuals.) For this, I call it a fantasy. And it's nice to be wrapped in such a far-away land where everyone's accepted. Bonus points to beautiful scenery, romance, good dialogue, great acting and small-town atmosphere that makes you believe you are there.Side Note: Nice to see a gay-romantic movie produced in 2000 that doesn't involve nudity, violence, sex, language or AIDS-related subplots. It was just a simple love story about loving life. It can be enjoyed by anyone, gay or straight with such believable characters who really get into character. I truly believe I am in "Big Eden." Despite the seasons never changing (see a snowless Montana at the end of November) and a small town group of people who obviously have enough money to "hang out" all day without obligations – man, didn't anyone work for money? – it's highly recommended.(EXTREME SPOILER, only read if you've listened to the audio commentary.) I was so curious to learn more about one of my all time favorite films, one of the eight times I've seen this, I listened through the audio commentary. "Big" mistake. I learned why there are so many close-up shots of both people and structures. This was due to the time of shooting, as this took a long time to shoot, the seasons and surroundings changed so much, they didn't want to give too much of a distraction to the audience. Now, with that knowledge, it's painfully obvious why so many close-ups were in the film and now, they're a distraction. Fortunately, I can get past them to one of the best movies ever made. If only this fantasy/romance could become a true life story. For anyone.

roger-640 I've seen some stupid movies in my day, but this is about the sorriest. No nuance anywhere. The makers of this movie are culturally tone-deaf. To take an stereotypically Jewish man and pretend that he comes from these obviously non-Jewish people. To have him even spout Yiddishisms among them. To have a kind of church concocted by someone who can't ever have been in a church (it has crucifixes and tabernacle complete with sanctuary candle burning -- marks of Catholicism --, but a minister in business-suit and choir and soloist performing as in evangelical meetings).As a mature gay man full of experience, I can say that I recognize none of the romantic/sexual situations that are presented. The boring, boring, sullen, rude main character and his graceless treatment of people (more acceptable in certain social circles in New York City -- where I live -- to be sure, but not tolerated in close-knit rural communities). Not one emotion, not one personal encounter rings true. I wanted to slap the "hero" over and over and, in real life, the other characters would have done it for me.

moonspinner55 While "Big Eden" has lots of aw-shucks charm, and a rather surprising amount of male-to-male affection, it features relationships and character quirks which aren't always made clear--and, as a result, its plot gets bunched up in knots. Arye Gross seems rather fatigued and unfocused as a gay, single artist in New York who travels back to his hometown in Montana after his beloved grandfather suffers a stroke; once there, he meets up again with the straight best friend from high school he's harbored a crush on for many years. Nicely-made, nicely-judged movie about getting a gay relationship off the ground, although Gross's heart isn't really into this role (he only comes to life during a dance at the outdoor festival). The straight hunk he's loved from afar (Tim DeKay), divorced and with two kids, is a much more interesting and complicated man than the shy, awkward Native American (Eric Schweig) who is added to the mix, yet writer-director Thomas Bezucha doesn't allow either of these supporting characters to bloom. In the straight fellow's case, Bezucha gives him little bits and pieces of on-screen time in which nothing important gets said, and the Indian is so insecure he comes off as anti-social. Still, the attempt is certainly there, and all the others in this friendly town (full of cracker-barrel wisdom and united mischief) are a wily, fun bunch. The soundtrack songs are exceptionally smart and the woodsy settings are very attractive. **1/2 from ****

erik-324 I'm not sure where I heard about this film, but I am so glad I found it. I just watched it again and was so moved. As the director says in the commentary, it is just a film about love and how it would be wonderful if being gay was just normal and no one had second thought about it. That is what makes this film so special, coupled with the small-town feel and the amazing vistas. Hats off to the director, Thomas Bezucha, and producer, Jen Chaiken. I wish there were more films like this. The acting is amazing, the story beautiful. The entire cast is wonderful, every scene is so great to watch and so moving. I recommend this film to everyone.