Watch Fair Haven

Fair Haven is a poignant drama film that follows the story of a young man named James (Michael Grant) who returns to his hometown in rural Vermont after spending six months undergoing conversion therapy to 'cure' his homosexuality. James comes back home to his parents, Everett (Gregory Harrison) and Rachel (Jennifer Taylor), who run a dairy farm in the small town of Fair Haven. He tries to pick up his life where he left off, including his relationship with his ex-girlfriend, Charlie (Lily Anne Harrison), who is now married to another man.

The movie explores the sensitive topic of conversion therapy and its harmful impact on the LGBTQ+ community. James, who is struggling with his sexuality and guilt from his religious upbringing, feels alienated and alone in his own family since they do not accept him for who he is. The film depicts the emotional turmoil that James goes through as he grapples with his sexuality and tries to reconcile it with his family's expectations of him.

The character of Everett, James' father, plays a prominent role in the film as he struggles to come to terms with his son's sexuality. He is a conservative farmer who holds strong religious beliefs and cannot accept the fact that his son is gay. Gregory Harrison delivers a stellar performance as a father torn between his love for his son and his deep-rooted beliefs. The scenes between James and Everett are some of the most intense in the film, as both characters struggle to bridge the gap that has been created between them.

Tom Wopat plays Richard, a local carpenter who is struggling with his own demons. Richard takes James under his wing and gives him a job at his woodshop, which serves as a sanctuary for James. The relationship between James and Richard is a refreshing change from the strained tension between James and his family. The camaraderie between the two characters is heart-warming as Richard sees James for who he truly is and accepts him without judgment.

The movie explores the themes of forgiveness, acceptance, and love. James' journey to self-acceptance is a compelling one, as he seeks to reconcile his sexuality with his faith and the expectations of those around him. The film is emotionally charged, and the performances of the actors, particularly Michael Grant's portrayal of James, are raw and authentic.

The cinematography of the film is breathtaking, showcasing the beauty of the Vermont countryside. The soundtrack is also impressive, adding to the overall emotional punch of the movie.

In conclusion, Fair Haven is a moving drama that offers a glimpse into the struggles of those who endure conversion therapy and the impact it has on their lives. The performances are superb, and the film tackles a sensitive subject with compassion and care. It is a heartfelt story of love and acceptance, and a must-watch for anyone interested in issues of LGBTQ+ rights and mental health.

Fair Haven is a 2017 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.