Watch Kept Boy

Kept Boy is a charming and amusing comedy-drama that explores modern gay relationships and the challenges of maintaining long-term companionship. This feature film from writer/director George Bamber stars Jon Paul Phillips as Dennis, a mid-thirties Los Angeleno who has been living the high life as the long-term kept boy of a wealthy older man named Farleigh (played by Thure Riefenstein).

Life in Farleigh's Beverly Hills mansion is the epitome of luxury, so much so that Dennis has grown accustomed to having his every need catered to by the house staff. However, when Farleigh's fortunes take a turn for the worse, Dennis is suddenly forced to confront the fact that his life of leisure may be coming to an end.

Although Farleigh insists that he loves Dennis and wants to make things work between them, Dennis is skeptical. He is worried that their relationship is built on convenience and that the pretenses of their lifestyle have masked any deeper connections they might have had. As he grapples with these doubts, Dennis begins to explore new avenues for his life outside of his cushy existence with Farleigh.

One of the main sources of conflict in the film is the tension between Dennis's desire for a more fulfilling life and Farleigh's expectations of him as his kept boy. Farleigh is used to being in control and having Dennis at his beck and call, but he is also aware that he needs to keep Dennis happy if he wants their relationship to last. Meanwhile, Dennis can't help but yearn for the kind of independence and self-awareness that Farleigh's wealth has prevented him from having.

As the film progresses, Dennis becomes more and more involved with his friends and the local Los Angeles art scene. He finds himself drawn to the creative energy and freedom of his new acquaintances, and starts to wonder whether he can really go back to his old life with Farleigh.

In addition to its exploration of relationships and personal growth, Kept Boy is also notable for its witty and biting sense of humor. The film never shies away from poking fun at the absurdities of LA culture and the dynamics of money and power in romantic relationships. There are several standout comedic performances in the film, most notably from Reinhard von Schönau as Farleigh's personal assistant, Karl.

Despite its emphasis on humor and lightness, Kept Boy also handles its dramatic themes with sensitivity and nuance. The film doesn't pass judgment on the characters' choices or priorities, but instead allows them to grapple with their own desires and insecurities in their own way. This makes for a compelling and thought-provoking viewing experience, one that will leave audiences pondering their own lives and relationships long after the credits roll.

Overall, Kept Boy is a charming and funny film that offers a fresh perspective on contemporary gay relationships. With its clever writing, sharp performances, and astute observations on human nature, it is sure to entertain and inspire audiences of all backgrounds.

Kept Boy is a 2017 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.