Reviews (39)

A Classic FINALLY back in print! :)
I've been lucky enough to view an advance promotional copy of MGM Home Entertainment's brand new dvd version of the classic AIDS themed film, "Longtime Companion."

Well, I have to say this film has never had such clear sound and beautiful picture quality. The Letterbox transfer is perfect and the Stereo is VERY nicely done. We watched it on a very large, THX system and the sound was channeled very well.

I have to give many votes of praise to MGM for re-releasing this wonderful title that was out of print for much of the 90's. I can't say how happy I am to see a quality, letter-box release of this movie! It's about time!! :)

So, PLEASE, don't waste another dime of your money paying for the poor quality, out-of-print version Vidmark released of this in 1990. I know you're gonna have to wait until January for the official release of this dvd, but, believe me it's worth it!

Groundbreaking movie about AIDS
As a serious attempt to dramatize the AIDS crisis by showing its impact on a small group of friends, "Longtime Companion" holds up well. The limitations evident when the movie debuted are still there: yes, the men (with the obligatory wise-cracking straight female friend) are all rich yuppies, and they're all white. They seem to exist on their own without any family members--though perhaps this is realistic; many gays and lesbians are indeed estranged from close relatives. More seriously, the omission of the latest news available then about the HIV virus and how safer sex could reduce transmission makes the health picture appear more dark than it in fact was, even in 1990.

Ultimately none of this lessens the emotional impact of the intertwined stories of these characters, due to a quality script and superb acting. There are scenes that overwhelm even now with their power and truth, notably that of Bruce Davison gently helping his lover Mark Lamos let go of life, and the conclusion, that slips momentarily into fantasy in a most moving way. The promiscuous gay lifestyle is given its due, but so are stable, long-term relationships. One wonders why the careers of actors such as Campbell Scott and Dermot Mulroney have not taken off further than they have--hopefully it's not because they had the artistic courage to portray open, fully-rounded and attractive gay men.

"Longtime Companion" still stands out as a carefully produced, well-written and non-judgmental portrayal of people coping with one of the darkest periods of modern American history.

Dark and Light
This drama is filled with possitive messages but has a darkness to it that will make you angry, in a productive way.

Still Relevent
This moview will make you laugh and cry. It show that love and care that a group can give.

Brilliant handling of a subject few understand.
I had seen Longtime Companion in it's first release, and, ironically, have received it as part of my home collection from a friend who passed from the disease.

My assessment of a great film is that it makes you relate to a world that is completely foreign to you. Being a straight woman with a circle of gay, male friends, this was not a subject I was unfamilliar with. I have, however, screened this film for several friends who weren't so familliar with gay culture and the issues that surround it. They were astounded at how powerfully this film conveyed the lifestyle and terror in a way that never bordered on melodrama.

There are two scenes that are gripping, one of which comes near the end and I won't destroy it's intent by revealing it here. The first scene that will just leave you numb is Bruce Davison's character at his lover's side urging him to 'just rest,' as he essentially begs him to die. It is quietly and poigniantly stoic and will break your heart. Davison's Oscar nod for this performance was WELL deserved.

This is a movie that requires an open mind, but if you are looking for a film that will give you an enlightening view of a lifestyle you don't live, this is a great film for you and will not disappoint. ... Read more