Watch David Searching

David Searching is a 1997 indie drama film directed by Leslie L. Smith, who also co-wrote the film's screenplay with Anthony Rapp. The film stars Rapp himself along with Camryn Manheim and Julie Halston in pivotal roles. The film revolves around the central character of David, a recent college graduate who finds himself adrift in life and grappling with his identity and sexuality.

David is an aspiring writer who has just finished college but has no clear path ahead of him. He is gay but not yet out to his family, and his relationships with his parents and his sister are strained. He moves to New York City to seek inspiration for his writing and to find a place where he can be himself. However, the city's vibrant gay scene and his own personal struggles prove to be a challenging combination.

At first, David searches for love and validation in all the wrong places. He has casual sexual encounters with strangers and becomes involved with a self-destructive party boy named Greg (played by Nick Stahl). Meanwhile, he tries to reconnect with his estranged father (played by Peter Onorati) and comes out to his sister (played by Halston), who is supportive but unsure how to help him.

Throughout the film, David's emotional journey is framed by his writing. He has a habit of narrating his life as if it were a novel, and the film frequently cuts to scenes of him typing away on his laptop. His writing serves as a way for him to process his feelings and make sense of his experiences.

One of the highlights of the film is its depiction of New York City. The city is a character in its own right, and the film captures its energy and diversity. There are scenes set in dance clubs, coffee shops, and parks, and the film captures the rhythm and pulse of the city.

Anthony Rapp delivers a strong performance as David, and he brings a vulnerability and sensitivity to the role. Camryn Manheim is also excellent as a no-nonsense lesbian bartender who becomes a mentor of sorts to David. She is blunt yet kind, and their scenes together are some of the film's best.

The film is a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the search for connection. It doesn't shy away from the difficulties that come with coming out and finding one's place in the world, but it also offers hope and a sense of possibility. It's a film that speaks to anyone who has ever struggled to find themselves.

In conclusion, David Searching is a touching and thought-provoking drama that tells a personal story with honesty and heart. The performances are strong, the writing is sharp, and the film captures the spirit of its time and place. It's a film that deserves a wider audience and will resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost and alone.

David Searching is a 1998 romance movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.