Opinions are like a**holes, everyone has one. That being said, I loved this movie. Yes, due to the constraints of a 2 hour movie, the leads fall into a serious relationship quite quickly. And maybe two guys in West Hollywood circa 1979 may not have fallen in love exactly like this, but darn it, does every gay film have to depict us all as un feeling sexual beings only. What a great message for future generations, and a timely one with gay marriage at the supreme level, that some gay men actually do want love and a family. My biggest compliment to the film was that by the end I was to enraged to cry. With only 16 theaters in the country showing this, and a mere 40k weekend, I feel so fortunate to have seen it in the theater. Ignore his 4 out of 10 rating and seek this little gem out.
40 Reviews
This should have received more attention.
McCamyTaylor6 July 2013
I watched the movie because I admire the work of Alan Cumming, and yes, he was (as always) brilliant as the singer---think Garbo doing Camille but with a five o'clock shadow. He is so completely lovable from moment one that his relationship with the lawyer is 100% believable.
What bothers me about the film is not anything contained within the film. I loved that it did not have the ending that Hollywood has lead us to expect such films to have. I loved that it was realistic. I loved that it celebrated love.
What I am curious about is why is this a "little" film? Given the timeliness of its subject matter, I would have expected it to receive more mainstream attention. Is mainstream American film criticism still uneasy at the thought of a gay couple raising a kid? Why don't we have any openly gay leading actors in the U.S.? What is wrong with our country? Once upon a time, back in the 70s when I was growing up, everyone was "bi", regardless of who you slept with. How did we end up going back in time?
What bothers me about the film is not anything contained within the film. I loved that it did not have the ending that Hollywood has lead us to expect such films to have. I loved that it was realistic. I loved that it celebrated love.
What I am curious about is why is this a "little" film? Given the timeliness of its subject matter, I would have expected it to receive more mainstream attention. Is mainstream American film criticism still uneasy at the thought of a gay couple raising a kid? Why don't we have any openly gay leading actors in the U.S.? What is wrong with our country? Once upon a time, back in the 70s when I was growing up, everyone was "bi", regardless of who you slept with. How did we end up going back in time?
Adoption
jotix1001 January 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Love and compassion for a mistreated young boy, Marco, suffering from Down syndrome, is the basis of "Any Day Now", a film with its heart in the right place. The subject matter is not exactly suitable for a studio production because it has the added peculiarity that the people looking to do the right thing are a gay couple who must put up with prejudice and ignorance from the legal system in the country.
The film directed by Travis Fine, who co-wrote the screenplay with George Arthur Bloom, offers a glimpse at a thorny issue in our society. Is it terribly wrong that two gay men, willing to raise Marco as their son, be denied custody just on the basis of their life style,and not on the love in their hearts? It seems unfair toward a boy who has been totally neglected by a drug addicted mother who brings men into her cramped apartment, instead of letting Marco be with Rudy and Paul, who are willing to do for him what a mother from hell will not do.
Obviously, the film was a vehicle for Alan Cumming, a talented actor who surprises with his take on Rudy. Mr. Cumming has a chance to sing in the film with his unique style and elegant delivery. Garrett Dillahante does not fare as well, but his role is not the flashy One.The best sequences in the movie are the ones in which a courtroom is involved. Frances Fisher, Gregg Henry, Chris Mulkey, and Don Franklin are seen in supporting roles.
The film directed by Travis Fine, who co-wrote the screenplay with George Arthur Bloom, offers a glimpse at a thorny issue in our society. Is it terribly wrong that two gay men, willing to raise Marco as their son, be denied custody just on the basis of their life style,and not on the love in their hearts? It seems unfair toward a boy who has been totally neglected by a drug addicted mother who brings men into her cramped apartment, instead of letting Marco be with Rudy and Paul, who are willing to do for him what a mother from hell will not do.
Obviously, the film was a vehicle for Alan Cumming, a talented actor who surprises with his take on Rudy. Mr. Cumming has a chance to sing in the film with his unique style and elegant delivery. Garrett Dillahante does not fare as well, but his role is not the flashy One.The best sequences in the movie are the ones in which a courtroom is involved. Frances Fisher, Gregg Henry, Chris Mulkey, and Don Franklin are seen in supporting roles.
Where is the audience for this great film?
avenuesf31 May 2013
I've never been a fan of Alan Cumming, but this film has turned me around. He gives a great performance in this, and it's confounding to me why this never got a broader release. Yes, there are some flaws in the way the 70's are portrayed, and some of the characterizations are a little trite; but I thought overall the film was poignant and made its statement very effectively. Like other reviewers have mentioned, the ending was not at all what I thought it would be and took me by surprise. What stays with me after seeing the film are the brief clips of Cummings singing, in particular, "Love Don't Live Here Anymore," in which he almost sounded like someone wounded. I will be buying this DVD, as I really feel like the film wasn't given much of a chance at the box office to gain the wider audience it deserved.
Moving Human Drama
sonjaboyce197417 June 2013
I was lucky enough to see this film while I was on holiday in Arizona and attended some screenings at The Sedona Film Festival. I didn't know anything about the film but have always been a fan of Cumming so chose this as one of the films to see. I wasn't disappointed, in fact I think it's fair to say this film completely blew me away and I left the cinema a bit of an emotional wreck! Some of the plot points at times may feel a bit rushed or contrived but if you just go with it you can enjoy a really beautiful, moving human drama. That's exactly what I chose to do and moved I was! The performances from all the cast are top notch, but Alan Cumming really is outstanding. I've never seen him better. It's really nicely shot and scored. The costumes and hair (!)are bang on period and the film flows seamlessly from beginning to the shocking end, which I had not anticipated and left me reeling! Would I recommend this film, in a word YES!
Surprisingly Authentic
JohnDeSando31 January 2013
With ample opportunity to turn heavy-handed and sappy, Any Day Now is surprisingly authentic without jerking tears about a 15 year old Down-Syndrome boy being saved from institutions by a male couple. The film does not turn on sentiment but rather on the weakness of the 1979 judicial system that might deny custody just because the parents are gay.
Rudy (Allan Cumming) is a drag queen, who wants to care for neighbor boy, Marco (Isaac Leyva), abandoned by druggie mom. Paul (Garret Dillahunt), an assistant district attorney, comes out to Rudy and falls in love with him. Both men love Marco, yet they struggle to convince the court that because a couple is gay, it should not be denied custody.
It is the '70's after all, and being gay and a drag queen can be a real drag for the authorities. To the film's credit, even the tough-minded judges can have moments of sympathy. Minor players like the prosecuting attorney go beyond stereotype, and the ending goes against expectations, a real plus for a film that could have followed the play book for tears and happiness.
An audience favorite at Tribeca and Chicago film fests and winner of the Golden Space Needle award at Seattle, Any Day Now, inspired by a true event, delivers an honest conflict with an honest conclusion. I'll take that any day now
Rudy (Allan Cumming) is a drag queen, who wants to care for neighbor boy, Marco (Isaac Leyva), abandoned by druggie mom. Paul (Garret Dillahunt), an assistant district attorney, comes out to Rudy and falls in love with him. Both men love Marco, yet they struggle to convince the court that because a couple is gay, it should not be denied custody.
It is the '70's after all, and being gay and a drag queen can be a real drag for the authorities. To the film's credit, even the tough-minded judges can have moments of sympathy. Minor players like the prosecuting attorney go beyond stereotype, and the ending goes against expectations, a real plus for a film that could have followed the play book for tears and happiness.
An audience favorite at Tribeca and Chicago film fests and winner of the Golden Space Needle award at Seattle, Any Day Now, inspired by a true event, delivers an honest conflict with an honest conclusion. I'll take that any day now
Has a few basic flaws but beautifully made....
gulla-harsha14 April 2013
I would start by saying that Alan Cumming did an excellent job in depicting the character "Rudy" in the movie . The story line was warm and new but the only downside to the movie is that the movie is set in the late 70s but dressing and art work suggest otherwise. Some characters in the movie were well defined but some were quite vague.The camera work was OK, nothing too special.The movie completely deserves a better rating than it has right now. Overall a very entertaining and touching movie. I would not regret watching the movie twice. PS: Make sure you carry a tissue paper with you. You might drop a tear or two while watching the movie.
A must see!
i3adfish715 January 2013
I saw this movie on a whim at the Palm Springs Film Fest and I feel like I left the theater a different person. I loved this story in all its heartbreaking glory. Alan Cumming's performance was wonderful and raw and at times I felt as enraged, as hopeful, as passionate and as proud as he did. I experienced so many emotions during the film that I was spent afterward, and I'm not ashamed to admit that I shed many tears during and after the movie.
I didn't know what to expect going in and I am so glad I picked this film. I could say more, but I don't want to spoil anything for the next person. Love, love, love - thank you Travis Fine.
I didn't know what to expect going in and I am so glad I picked this film. I could say more, but I don't want to spoil anything for the next person. Love, love, love - thank you Travis Fine.
536th Review: Straight, Gay, who cares? Good emotional drama is good...
intelearts13 April 2013
Any Day Now attempts something unconventional, which I Love Philip Morris did for romantic comedies in 2007, - that is, it sticks to the conventions of its genre while doing so through a gay lens. As a straight man, who simply loves good films, this doesn't mean that some films are good because of an agenda and some are bad - I guess my criteria is: do I feel involved, did it move me, was it memorable?
On that criteria Any Day Now flies high - it is a good solid drama about two men who not only find each other but also a surrogate son with Downs Syndrome. Set in the mid-70s. they run into problems.
The first half is exceptional in being riveting without a need for tension - an achievement in itself - the establishment of relationships and character is superb. The second half's arc is slightly too melodramatic in places and this overbalances the film slightly in the middle, but it does recover superbly by the end.
What we end up with is a very good drama, with real poignancy; and one that you shouldn't avoid because it's about male parents. This is worth watching for Alan Cummings' performance alone, he was Scotland's best comic in the 90s, doing full-on high camp as an air steward before taking on film roles in America (noticeably in the Spy Kids franchise). Here turns to real acting - it's a great performance - he almost manages, but just misses in places, that intense subtlety which makes great actors seem transparently honest, but like other comedians who've made this difficult transition, we sense the pain and the drive for that honesty.
Definitely worth anyone's time.
On that criteria Any Day Now flies high - it is a good solid drama about two men who not only find each other but also a surrogate son with Downs Syndrome. Set in the mid-70s. they run into problems.
The first half is exceptional in being riveting without a need for tension - an achievement in itself - the establishment of relationships and character is superb. The second half's arc is slightly too melodramatic in places and this overbalances the film slightly in the middle, but it does recover superbly by the end.
What we end up with is a very good drama, with real poignancy; and one that you shouldn't avoid because it's about male parents. This is worth watching for Alan Cummings' performance alone, he was Scotland's best comic in the 90s, doing full-on high camp as an air steward before taking on film roles in America (noticeably in the Spy Kids franchise). Here turns to real acting - it's a great performance - he almost manages, but just misses in places, that intense subtlety which makes great actors seem transparently honest, but like other comedians who've made this difficult transition, we sense the pain and the drive for that honesty.
Definitely worth anyone's time.
...misunderstood.
werewolf_son29 June 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Is not about being gay or straight and all the rainbow movement in the world, is not about the handicapped children who can't fight back, is not about some zen message that must make you grow and become a better person. Is not about drugs, sex, violence... It's all about love. And how people can't see THE LOVE even if it stay right before them. You can talk about how good is Alan Cumming, or how emotionally is the music...you can talk about the story,a true story...but, in the end it's all about love. If this is a problem for you, don't watch this movie. Go see a blockbuster or something that can make you forget that life is beautiful, but filthy with crappy people.
Fighting the good fight
bain003818 December 2012
Any Day Now is a moving film about a gay couple who tries to adopt a displaced and lovable adolescent with Down Syndrome, (Marco). The story, set in West Hollywood in 1979, is meant to be relevant today, because it addresses gays on parenting, which the film confronts, but in an odd way. That's because this is a film about love at first sight. You would think this about a stable and well to do couple who decide to adopt, not so. The first scene finds Allan Cummings, (Rudy), playing a drag queen in a dimly lit dive bar. A well-dressed and sad looking man, Paul, sits down by himself. The two light up when they make eye contact. They fall in love. Then they take to Marco. Paul turns out to be in law. The two move in together and get custody of the child all within a few days. It's an unlikely family, an instant family, and it's based on a true story.
The film does come off, at least initially, as a bit preposterous. Why would this prominent lawyer go for a drag queen who can barely pay rent? Perhaps it's to emphasize the point that we don't know what makes people fall in love. And why would they risk everything to adopt this child with no future? Our heroes have a the gift of empathy, one wouldn't think that you would have to fight for your right to exercise it, but that's the main conflict here as they go to court for permanent custody. It's the story of a couple fighting against a world half stuck in dark ages that wants to destroy their family so they can salvage the prehistoric traditions they're holding onto. It's amazing how far we have come in the past thirty three years
Any Day Now is not a perfect film. The acting falls flat on occasion, at times you might not understand motives and some character development seems premature. That said, this is a pertinent work that gets stronger as you watch it. It also grows with you after leaving the theater. The test audience I sat with was in sync with laughter and tears. And yes, some even stayed through the credits.
The film does come off, at least initially, as a bit preposterous. Why would this prominent lawyer go for a drag queen who can barely pay rent? Perhaps it's to emphasize the point that we don't know what makes people fall in love. And why would they risk everything to adopt this child with no future? Our heroes have a the gift of empathy, one wouldn't think that you would have to fight for your right to exercise it, but that's the main conflict here as they go to court for permanent custody. It's the story of a couple fighting against a world half stuck in dark ages that wants to destroy their family so they can salvage the prehistoric traditions they're holding onto. It's amazing how far we have come in the past thirty three years
Any Day Now is not a perfect film. The acting falls flat on occasion, at times you might not understand motives and some character development seems premature. That said, this is a pertinent work that gets stronger as you watch it. It also grows with you after leaving the theater. The test audience I sat with was in sync with laughter and tears. And yes, some even stayed through the credits.
Brilliant film with an unforgettable performance by Alan Cumming
pyotr-316 December 2012
After the movie ended, the entire audience stayed long afterwards, stunned and devastated by what they had seen.
I expected to be able to predict the ending of this film, but I was very wrong. It was completely unpredictable.
The relationship between Cumming's character and the lawyer was very touching, though it did require an actor of Alan Cumming's massive talent to make the relationship believable. Cumming deserves an Oscar for his performance. I can not imagine that any other actor will surpass Cumming's magic here.
The story takes place in 1979, a year I remember well because I always say it was my favorite year, and I think that they captured the look and feel of 1979 very well.
This is a very beautiful movie that everyone should see. A great story, well acted, and one that will be commented on for years to come.
I expected to be able to predict the ending of this film, but I was very wrong. It was completely unpredictable.
The relationship between Cumming's character and the lawyer was very touching, though it did require an actor of Alan Cumming's massive talent to make the relationship believable. Cumming deserves an Oscar for his performance. I can not imagine that any other actor will surpass Cumming's magic here.
The story takes place in 1979, a year I remember well because I always say it was my favorite year, and I think that they captured the look and feel of 1979 very well.
This is a very beautiful movie that everyone should see. A great story, well acted, and one that will be commented on for years to come.
A quiet surprise
twilliams7614 August 2013
Warning: Spoilers
It is these little known movies many have never heard of that end up being the biggest surprises (although I saw the trailer for this film when I saw Anna Karenina in the theater last winter). Any Day Now is a quiet surprise as it is a small-ish film with no "significant" stars in its cast that packs an unexpected emotional punch.
While Any Day Now is a flawed film -- editing isn't so great, there is an almost too-authentic/over-the-top 70's feel to the production and there are some continuity flaws clearly visible on screen -- the story and acting are quite good. Most of the actors in the film tend to be strong supporting players/character actors and it is nice seeing some of them get bigger roles proving they are capable actors who have wisely chosen their profession.
Inspired by a true story, Any Day Now takes place in the late 70's and is about Rudy Donatello (Alan Cumming - Circle of Friends) who one day takes notice of Marco, a down syndrome kid (a remarkable Isaac Leyva) who is his neighbor and who unfortunately has a deadbeat, drug-addled single parent mother (Jamie Anne Allman -- Aunt Terry of 'The Killing') who cares little for him or his well-being as her primary concern in life appears to be her scoring her next hit. Disgusted and distraught for the innocent child, Rudy asks his lawyer pal Paul (Garret Dillahunt - No Country for Old Men) to see what he can do about helping the child after Marco's mother abandons him after telling Rudy he was free to take care of him if he wished (as he'd be out of her hair).
Any Day Now is a story of love and compassion but most of all acceptance ... as Rudy takes in and loves another in spite of all obstacles he knows he will encounter. Rudy and Marco create a makeshift family and nobody has a problem with it until it is revealed that Rudy is a homosexual (NOT a spoiler as the audience knows from the opening scenes) and his love and kindness and respect are apparently no longer valid. The closeted pal Paul struggles with coming out and doing what is right as he knows all-too-well the repercussions of being gay in a not-quite-fully accepting society.... all while the audience sees that true love knows no bounds because an innocent Marco sees nothing but love for those who have loved him.
The film (unfortunately) becomes a bit more of a legal drama than one would wish as it explores the biased legal system in the film's second half; but at its core is Cumming's genuine and heartfelt performance that is rather impressive. Who knew that the slithery creep (who could make one's skin crawl) from Circle of Friends could also make you like him?!
We know the film is about a man who wants the best for a disadvantaged, disabled child. We know the man happens to be gay in a time much less accepting than today. What we don't know and the film is about is what happens to Marco and whether or not his wants/wishes are even considered by both a legal system and a society afraid of homosexuality.
While it won't be a film for everyone, open-minded and big-hearted individuals should like several aspects of this film. Yes ... it could have been better but so can the world we all live in.
While Any Day Now is a flawed film -- editing isn't so great, there is an almost too-authentic/over-the-top 70's feel to the production and there are some continuity flaws clearly visible on screen -- the story and acting are quite good. Most of the actors in the film tend to be strong supporting players/character actors and it is nice seeing some of them get bigger roles proving they are capable actors who have wisely chosen their profession.
Inspired by a true story, Any Day Now takes place in the late 70's and is about Rudy Donatello (Alan Cumming - Circle of Friends) who one day takes notice of Marco, a down syndrome kid (a remarkable Isaac Leyva) who is his neighbor and who unfortunately has a deadbeat, drug-addled single parent mother (Jamie Anne Allman -- Aunt Terry of 'The Killing') who cares little for him or his well-being as her primary concern in life appears to be her scoring her next hit. Disgusted and distraught for the innocent child, Rudy asks his lawyer pal Paul (Garret Dillahunt - No Country for Old Men) to see what he can do about helping the child after Marco's mother abandons him after telling Rudy he was free to take care of him if he wished (as he'd be out of her hair).
Any Day Now is a story of love and compassion but most of all acceptance ... as Rudy takes in and loves another in spite of all obstacles he knows he will encounter. Rudy and Marco create a makeshift family and nobody has a problem with it until it is revealed that Rudy is a homosexual (NOT a spoiler as the audience knows from the opening scenes) and his love and kindness and respect are apparently no longer valid. The closeted pal Paul struggles with coming out and doing what is right as he knows all-too-well the repercussions of being gay in a not-quite-fully accepting society.... all while the audience sees that true love knows no bounds because an innocent Marco sees nothing but love for those who have loved him.
The film (unfortunately) becomes a bit more of a legal drama than one would wish as it explores the biased legal system in the film's second half; but at its core is Cumming's genuine and heartfelt performance that is rather impressive. Who knew that the slithery creep (who could make one's skin crawl) from Circle of Friends could also make you like him?!
We know the film is about a man who wants the best for a disadvantaged, disabled child. We know the man happens to be gay in a time much less accepting than today. What we don't know and the film is about is what happens to Marco and whether or not his wants/wishes are even considered by both a legal system and a society afraid of homosexuality.
While it won't be a film for everyone, open-minded and big-hearted individuals should like several aspects of this film. Yes ... it could have been better but so can the world we all live in.
Engaging but flawed.
Davalon-Davalon15 February 2015
Warning: Spoilers
The heart of this movie is in the right place, but there are too many plot holes and incongruities for it to rise above anything other than a unique, but flawed film.
We are put in the shoes of Rudy Donatello (Alan Cumming), a part-time drag queen/struggling songwriter, who realizes that a mentally handicapped child in the apartment next to him is not being taken care of properly by his drug addict mother. The night before he discovers this, he has a sexual encounter with Paul (Garret Dillahunt), a man who has come into the bar where Rudy works. It so happens that Paul is a lawyer for the D.A.
The timing of these events is incredibly fortuitous and the film races along before we even have a chance to question things. For example: Rudy takes an immediate interest in the child and determines that he, who basically has no money, can't pay his rent on time, and works at night, is somehow going to take care of this child. When Family Services comes to retrieve Marco after his mother has apparently been picked up on drug or prostitution charges (it wasn't clear), Agent Martinez (Kamala Lopez) rushes the poor boy, trying to get him to gather his clothes and other belongings. But why? A person from Family Services rushing a handicapped child to grab his clothes and get the hell out of the only home he may have known, without any explanation or a shred of sensitivity? This did not ring true.
Also: When Rudy decides that he doesn't think Family Services should take care of Marco, he contacts Paul via the phone number he gave him after their first sexual encounter. He assumes that because Paul is a lawyer, he must also therefore know what the next step is in getting Marco out of Family Services (an organization trained to handle such situations) and back into his loving arms. But why? He makes the assumption that Marco could only possibly end up in a terrible place. It MIGHT be true, but it is still only an assumption. When he calls Paul on the phone, he is obnoxious to his secretary because she won't connect him to Paul instantly. Why would she? Is he really stupid and selfish enough to assume that Paul has no other business other than responding to his fury that must be resolved instantly or he'll go on a rampage? Apparently, because that's Rudy's next step. He charges into the law office where Paul works as if he owned it, demanding to see Paul. Paul says, quite realistically, "What are you doing? This is where I work!" It's great that Rudy wanted to care for Marco, but to treat everyone else along the way like sh*t did not make me sympathetic to his cause.
The B-story was almost laughable. Paul, having heard Rudy's off-key singer-songwriter voice , determines he should makes demos and find work, and buys him an 8-track tape recorder. Rudy records a slow version of the disco hit "Come to Me." While I give the film props for successfully nailing what a songwriter would have to do in the '70s (record on 8-track, get cassettes made, mail them out in padded envelopes and hope for the best), to think that a club owner would give Rudy a shot at fame by offering him two nights a week to sing whatever the hell he wanted... I don't see it. Also, Rudy wasn't what you would call "audience-friendly," so I'd really like to know where the audience (who sits in cold-stone silence during Rudy's performance) came from.
There is a long list of other questionable "moments," but as I lived in L.A. during that time, I can say that the director made every attempt to accurately portray 1979 through clothes, hairstyles (even if that meant questionable wigs for the two male leads), cars, music and vocabulary. The two leads also essentially nailed the personality and philosophy of the two gay men they were portraying from that era. For example, from the first moment Paul parks his car outside the gay club, I could sense the fear, tension, panic, denial, worry... it was all in his face. He wanted to go in, but he was afraid. For Rudy, it was more "F*** all of you. This is who I am, take it or leave it."
In fact, I felt I had been whisked back into time... and, despite all the fun music, cheap food and gas, there was, for gay people, the real fear that their lives could be in danger, their jobs jeopardized and their family relationships challenged by the exposure of the fact that they were gay. This was quite real, and the film nails these moments.
There were other excellent performances in small parts: Clyde Kusatsu as a sympathetic but honest doctor who gives Rudy and Paul the harsh lowdown on Marco's illness, Frances Fisher as a sympathetic but realistic judge, and Don Franklin as a no- nonsense attorney who agrees to handle Rudy and Paul's case.
The key to making it all work was Isaac Levya as Marco, who seemed to clearly understand what was going on and rose to the occasion as an actor and not just as a Down syndrome poster boy/prop. I loved that Rudy and Paul cared enough to take care of him in a loving way, and I loved that Marco realized that someone actually loved him and was willing to help him, since his pathetically misguided mother could not.
I did get sucked into the film and I was moved. But I would like to believe that the filmmakers would now look at the film and say, "Right. We could have done that better." Nonetheless, it was a unique film and I'm glad I saw it.
We are put in the shoes of Rudy Donatello (Alan Cumming), a part-time drag queen/struggling songwriter, who realizes that a mentally handicapped child in the apartment next to him is not being taken care of properly by his drug addict mother. The night before he discovers this, he has a sexual encounter with Paul (Garret Dillahunt), a man who has come into the bar where Rudy works. It so happens that Paul is a lawyer for the D.A.
The timing of these events is incredibly fortuitous and the film races along before we even have a chance to question things. For example: Rudy takes an immediate interest in the child and determines that he, who basically has no money, can't pay his rent on time, and works at night, is somehow going to take care of this child. When Family Services comes to retrieve Marco after his mother has apparently been picked up on drug or prostitution charges (it wasn't clear), Agent Martinez (Kamala Lopez) rushes the poor boy, trying to get him to gather his clothes and other belongings. But why? A person from Family Services rushing a handicapped child to grab his clothes and get the hell out of the only home he may have known, without any explanation or a shred of sensitivity? This did not ring true.
Also: When Rudy decides that he doesn't think Family Services should take care of Marco, he contacts Paul via the phone number he gave him after their first sexual encounter. He assumes that because Paul is a lawyer, he must also therefore know what the next step is in getting Marco out of Family Services (an organization trained to handle such situations) and back into his loving arms. But why? He makes the assumption that Marco could only possibly end up in a terrible place. It MIGHT be true, but it is still only an assumption. When he calls Paul on the phone, he is obnoxious to his secretary because she won't connect him to Paul instantly. Why would she? Is he really stupid and selfish enough to assume that Paul has no other business other than responding to his fury that must be resolved instantly or he'll go on a rampage? Apparently, because that's Rudy's next step. He charges into the law office where Paul works as if he owned it, demanding to see Paul. Paul says, quite realistically, "What are you doing? This is where I work!" It's great that Rudy wanted to care for Marco, but to treat everyone else along the way like sh*t did not make me sympathetic to his cause.
The B-story was almost laughable. Paul, having heard Rudy's off-key singer-songwriter voice , determines he should makes demos and find work, and buys him an 8-track tape recorder. Rudy records a slow version of the disco hit "Come to Me." While I give the film props for successfully nailing what a songwriter would have to do in the '70s (record on 8-track, get cassettes made, mail them out in padded envelopes and hope for the best), to think that a club owner would give Rudy a shot at fame by offering him two nights a week to sing whatever the hell he wanted... I don't see it. Also, Rudy wasn't what you would call "audience-friendly," so I'd really like to know where the audience (who sits in cold-stone silence during Rudy's performance) came from.
There is a long list of other questionable "moments," but as I lived in L.A. during that time, I can say that the director made every attempt to accurately portray 1979 through clothes, hairstyles (even if that meant questionable wigs for the two male leads), cars, music and vocabulary. The two leads also essentially nailed the personality and philosophy of the two gay men they were portraying from that era. For example, from the first moment Paul parks his car outside the gay club, I could sense the fear, tension, panic, denial, worry... it was all in his face. He wanted to go in, but he was afraid. For Rudy, it was more "F*** all of you. This is who I am, take it or leave it."
In fact, I felt I had been whisked back into time... and, despite all the fun music, cheap food and gas, there was, for gay people, the real fear that their lives could be in danger, their jobs jeopardized and their family relationships challenged by the exposure of the fact that they were gay. This was quite real, and the film nails these moments.
There were other excellent performances in small parts: Clyde Kusatsu as a sympathetic but honest doctor who gives Rudy and Paul the harsh lowdown on Marco's illness, Frances Fisher as a sympathetic but realistic judge, and Don Franklin as a no- nonsense attorney who agrees to handle Rudy and Paul's case.
The key to making it all work was Isaac Levya as Marco, who seemed to clearly understand what was going on and rose to the occasion as an actor and not just as a Down syndrome poster boy/prop. I loved that Rudy and Paul cared enough to take care of him in a loving way, and I loved that Marco realized that someone actually loved him and was willing to help him, since his pathetically misguided mother could not.
I did get sucked into the film and I was moved. But I would like to believe that the filmmakers would now look at the film and say, "Right. We could have done that better." Nonetheless, it was a unique film and I'm glad I saw it.
You won't forget this in a hurry.
MOscarbradley20 October 2014
Travis Fine's remarkable film "Any Day Now" deals with the very thorny issue of gay parenting or more specifically, gay adoption. Alan Cumming, (superb), is the drag artist who feels responsible for the mentally handicapped child next door, (a terrific Issac Leyva), after his mother is picked up by the vice squad and who decides to do something about it by legally adopting the child himself with the help of his new lover who just happens to be a lawyer, (a very good Garret Dillahunt). It's the kind of topic the movies tends to shy away from and it has all the potential for mawkishness but Fine manages to steer clear of sentimentality; the result is both intelligent and very moving, yet not without a degree of humour. Of course, it also deals with issues that many will find grim and distressing and it proves to be a challenging watch. This is one gay-themed film that lays it very much on the line and is all the more powerful for it. In an age when so many polemical films are cut and dried and conventionally on the side of the angels here is one that is content to bleed like an open wound. You won't forget it in a hurry.
The fight against injustice
Gordon-1116 September 2013
This film is about a gay couple who fights the legal system to get custody of a mentally handicapped child in the USA in 1970's.
"Any Day Now" tells a touching story about how two gay men fall in love with each other, and their love extends to a mentally retarded child who is left alone because his mother is sentenced to prison for drug related offence. The film couple becomes loving and caring parents to an underprivileged child, despite the discrimination of the conservative society. This selfless and unconditional love is quite touching in itself, but what is more touching is their solid determination to fight against systematic discrimination and injustice.
I am glad that this film is made, so that this story, together with their activist spirit, reaches a wider audience. Hopefully, someone somewhere is inspired by this couple, and will stand up against injustice like they did.
"Any Day Now" tells a touching story about how two gay men fall in love with each other, and their love extends to a mentally retarded child who is left alone because his mother is sentenced to prison for drug related offence. The film couple becomes loving and caring parents to an underprivileged child, despite the discrimination of the conservative society. This selfless and unconditional love is quite touching in itself, but what is more touching is their solid determination to fight against systematic discrimination and injustice.
I am glad that this film is made, so that this story, together with their activist spirit, reaches a wider audience. Hopefully, someone somewhere is inspired by this couple, and will stand up against injustice like they did.
Wow!
missdyky13 June 2014
I watched this just and feel compelled to review the film, which I don't usually do. What an amazing film, both beautiful and moving but also sad considering it is based on a true story. Things have moved forward since the 1970's but there is still a lot of discrimination in this world. This film showed quite strongly that same sex couples can love a child just as well, and even better, than heterosexual people or birth parents. With so many children looking for a loving, supportive home I am glad that we have changed our views on same sex adoption, but a lot is still to be done to ensure equality for all.
Alan Cumming played an amazing part in this film, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
10/10!
Alan Cumming played an amazing part in this film, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
10/10!
Hopefully, soon.
ptb-816 March 2014
I was skeptical as I sat there but when informed that this is a true story, I engaged better and ultimately admired this small simple emotional film. An unlikely first act overcome, the story of a gay couple who adopt an abandoned teenager with Down Syndrome and the legal battle that follows when conservative law is aghast, makes for a strong story. Talented Alan Cumming is a bit hard to deal with at times and often resembles a younger Dustin Hoffman. The teen is wonderful and Garret Dillahunt right for the hesitant lawyer/partner. A particularly emotional ending is straight to the heart. I do recommend this honest interesting film and if admire the concise low budget production values.
a must see movie
paddynoble20 January 2014
This was an excellent movie, I was shocked at the end but then I wasn't surprised given that in the 70s everything wasn't in the favor of two gay men. I'm glad that that everyone who prevented Marco from going back to the two men, in the court system received a letter illustrating the outcome.
There was a lot in this movie to like but the court scenario where Garett Dillahunt (Rudy's partner) stressed the obvious that nobody wanted Marco being a down syndrome child, and yet these two men loved him, and were his only safety net.
I recommend this movie. Also some interesting actors show up too, many A listing Actors.
There was a lot in this movie to like but the court scenario where Garett Dillahunt (Rudy's partner) stressed the obvious that nobody wanted Marco being a down syndrome child, and yet these two men loved him, and were his only safety net.
I recommend this movie. Also some interesting actors show up too, many A listing Actors.
In need of a happy ending
SnoopyStyle2 November 2013
It's 1979 in Hollywood. Rudy Donatello (Alan Cumming) is a gay drag queen performer. He falls for Paul Fliger (Garret Dillahunt), a lawyer in the DA office. Rudy's neighbor is a drug addicted nuisance with Down syndrome kid Marco (Isaac Leyva). When she's arrested by vice, Rudy takes the kid in despite many obstacles.
This is a gut-wrenching tearjerker. It really hits its stride when the gay couple takes in Marco. Marco is amazingly sweet which made all the struggles that much more compelling. I really felt Rudy's love for the kid. The only problem is the ending. Without spoilers, let's just say it was extremely unsatisfying. There isn't a finality that this movie needs.
This is a gut-wrenching tearjerker. It really hits its stride when the gay couple takes in Marco. Marco is amazingly sweet which made all the struggles that much more compelling. I really felt Rudy's love for the kid. The only problem is the ending. Without spoilers, let's just say it was extremely unsatisfying. There isn't a finality that this movie needs.
Any movie, Mr. Cumming
kwright-284 June 2013
I wanted to watch this movie because Alan Cumming has a star turn and it sounded interesting. How good is the movie? It's excellent and wonderfully realistic. Story goes, Cumming is rather down and out but balks at social services taking custody of a prostitute's disabled child. How the story winds around the relationship Cumming's character has with his lover and the child is the hook here. Some of the characters seem stuck on or added for effect, but once again, this is Cumming's movie. This is not to say that the other actors aren't good or effective, but Cumming outshines them. The young man at the center of the story is limited. His character is bound by his disability. So, watch the movie because it's very good and if you haven't seen Alan Cumming in a unique role, this is your chance.
You don't need to stack the deck that high to convince me that gay couples are viable for adopting, OK?
Howlin Wolf8 August 2014
Warning: Spoilers
and I realise with that one summary, I may have alienated more conservative readers, but hey - you're already preaching to the converted.
So, as an audience, do we really need to see that the mother is a hopeless case AFTER the custody decision has been awarded in her favour?! Does the kid have to die, as a result of the ruling? I realise this is how events MAY have transpired, but some judicious pacing could have been employed, in order that proceedings not feel quite so manipulative.
I'm fully in favour of adoption to a loving home, no matter the sexuality of the prospective parents I am but it would be nice if the individual facts of the case were trusted to speak for themselves, instead of feeling like the undecided have to have their arm twisted behind their back before they can be counted upon to make the right call. A little more subtlety would have made the movie more effective to me, even if marginally less persuasive for those whose verdict is still in the balance.
It's a shame, too, because the message is all in favour of a good cause, and Cumming's performance is masterful. It's a pity for the sake of organic storytelling in entertaining form, that those factors alone were not judged as compelling enough to be able to swing the vote.
So, as an audience, do we really need to see that the mother is a hopeless case AFTER the custody decision has been awarded in her favour?! Does the kid have to die, as a result of the ruling? I realise this is how events MAY have transpired, but some judicious pacing could have been employed, in order that proceedings not feel quite so manipulative.
I'm fully in favour of adoption to a loving home, no matter the sexuality of the prospective parents I am but it would be nice if the individual facts of the case were trusted to speak for themselves, instead of feeling like the undecided have to have their arm twisted behind their back before they can be counted upon to make the right call. A little more subtlety would have made the movie more effective to me, even if marginally less persuasive for those whose verdict is still in the balance.
It's a shame, too, because the message is all in favour of a good cause, and Cumming's performance is masterful. It's a pity for the sake of organic storytelling in entertaining form, that those factors alone were not judged as compelling enough to be able to swing the vote.
don't miss this great movie
toddcha29 June 2014
Great acting, probably it's Alan Cunning's best performance ever. Simple and straightforward with no other exaggeration words or actions makes the acting/love more pure between the gay parents in a gay family. Don't think this move cliché. It's not another gay adaption issue with the setting in '70s. On the contrary, it gives us, at least me, a more clear picture/argument that why gay parents can't adopt a child-- if gay parents are really the source of bad influence to children, why we still have so much violence, crime and hatred in a world whose members are definitely mostly straight people. And those criminals behind the bar are raised by straight people too. It's just nothing but the power exchange/dominance, which is especially clear in the court defense. Back to the movie. I do think that the kid, Marco, should play a bigger role, which may increase the judges' injustice and bias. I appreciate Paul's fighting in the court and caring in daily life, but need more explicit affection towards Marco. and the way it describe the kid's life may ease the tension ( say, it should raise the tension between pro-gay adoption and con-gay adoption). But it still depends on how wise the audience are if their attitude towards gay adoption would change because of this movie. The last point is the soundtrack. It's amazing. even better than the original. Must have if you have chance.
Could have been good
thomasshahbaz13 March 2014
This has so much potential, but much in the same way as Sean Penn's "Into the Wild", it lays on so much sentimentality that it becomes risible (slow-mo turning heads to show pain, cheesy music when you're meant to feel sad, TERRIBLE OTT montage to show the progression of the relationship between the child and new parents). In the hands of a more experienced director, who would have allowed the powerful story to speak for itself, instead of piling on the amateur gimmicks, this would've been amazing. Instead, I'd say it's a bona-fide box of tissues, ice-cream schmaltz-fest to be tolerated by only the most "sex-in-the-city" of audiences.
DONUTS ARE POISON
nogodnomasters9 August 2018
Warning: Spoilers
The film takes place in West Los Angels 1979.
Rudy (Alan Cumming) is an out of the closet female impersonator,and not a very good one. While on the job at Fabio's he meets Paul (Garret Dillahunt) a man who looks like Jon Voight out of "Midnight Cowboy." They become an item. Rudy lives in a run down apartment next to a coke-prostitute named Marianna (Jamie Anne Allman). She has a son, Marco (Isaac Leyva). Marco has Down Syndrome and Marianna is a terrible mother.
When Marianna gets busted for prostitution and drugs, Rudy cares for the child in order to keep him out of a foster home. Paul joins the family as they become the emergency legal guardians of Marco. When Paul's lifestyle becomes exposed, prejudices abound and lives change dramatically.
The film is well acted. The action moves slow, but steady. The film contrasts the gay care free disco music of the era to the angst of our gay couple. Make no mistake about it, this is a pro gay adoption movie. I am sure this film will convince anyone that we need to allow gay couples to adopt kids with Down Syndrome nobody else wants...and as the title suggests, 14th amendment equality will come any day now.
Parental Guidance: F-bomb. no nudity. M/M implied oral car scene, 2 men in bed hugging/kissing.
Rudy (Alan Cumming) is an out of the closet female impersonator,and not a very good one. While on the job at Fabio's he meets Paul (Garret Dillahunt) a man who looks like Jon Voight out of "Midnight Cowboy." They become an item. Rudy lives in a run down apartment next to a coke-prostitute named Marianna (Jamie Anne Allman). She has a son, Marco (Isaac Leyva). Marco has Down Syndrome and Marianna is a terrible mother.
When Marianna gets busted for prostitution and drugs, Rudy cares for the child in order to keep him out of a foster home. Paul joins the family as they become the emergency legal guardians of Marco. When Paul's lifestyle becomes exposed, prejudices abound and lives change dramatically.
The film is well acted. The action moves slow, but steady. The film contrasts the gay care free disco music of the era to the angst of our gay couple. Make no mistake about it, this is a pro gay adoption movie. I am sure this film will convince anyone that we need to allow gay couples to adopt kids with Down Syndrome nobody else wants...and as the title suggests, 14th amendment equality will come any day now.
Parental Guidance: F-bomb. no nudity. M/M implied oral car scene, 2 men in bed hugging/kissing.
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