‘I Just Don’t Like You…’ explores the complexities of a decade-long relationship between Justin (Troy Hatt) and Jacob (Brandon Keith Rogers) against the backdrop of a tropical hike. Jerome Elston Scott’s short drama navigates the shifting dynamics of their connection, delving into themes of complacency and discontent.
The film’s comedic underbelly provides occasional relief, injecting humor into the narrative, but the heart of the story lies in the palpable tension between the characters. Jacob’s attempt to communicate his unhappiness is met with Justin’s relentless sarcasm and jokes, highlighting the theme of taking one another for granted. The humid trek becomes a bittersweet backdrop as the couple grapples with unaddressed issues.
Hatt and Rogers deliver solid performances that will allure the audience, infusing authenticity into the characters’ struggles. The high quality cinematography by Lubor Zuzin adds a cinematic flavour to the narrative, enhancing the visual appeal.
As the film reaches it’s climax, the plot takes an unexpected turn, introducing an unforeseen twist (no spoilers) that elevates the story beyond the conventional exploration of relationship dynamics. While initially challenging to grasp, the revelation adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, keeping viewers enthralled.
‘I Just Don’t Like You…’ is a finely crafted gay tale that just about captures the quirks of a long-term relationship on the brink. Scott’s direction, coupled with robust performances and skilled cinematography, makes this LGBTQ+ themed gem a worthy watch. The relatable portrayal of a crumbling relationship, linked with the unexpected tech-induced climax, ensures that the film will leave a memorable mark on it’s core audience. Highly recommended.
