Our Sons

Synopsis:

When James admits to his mother that he is gay it strains her liberal attitude. A San Diego businesswoman, Audrey believes she is a modern, open-minded mother, but the news sends her reeling. However, the real shock comes when James asks her to travel to Arkansas and inform his lover’s estranged mom, Luanne, that her son has AIDS. As Audrey and Luanne learn to put aside their prejudice toward each other, they soon discover how to share their thoughts, hopes and fears for their sons.

Quick Thoughts:

Today there are a handful of great queer films that address the subject of AIDS. However, in the early 90’s, there were very few as many studios and even actors were afraid to honestly address the disease terrorising the gay community. “Our Sons” was groundbreaking when it aired on TV in 1991, because this queer drama approached AIDS in a way that many could relate to. And with a cast of A-listers, it drew attention. Hugh Grant portrays the fear of his lover dying from AIDS and unbable to do anything to help. Julie Andrews wonderfully plays his mother, who accepts her gay son but is still reserved when it comes to the reality of AIDS. And of course, Ann-Margret is simply brilliant as the mother of Donnie, Hugh Grant’s lover, who could not accept her gay son. Andrews and Margret go head to head as class and views clash. But in the end, it’s about acceptance, something that was direly needed in the 90’s when it comes to AIDS. It may be a bit melodramatic at times, leaning into some common issues with TV movies, but the queer drama “Our Sons” is absolutely worth watching!