Paul Monette: The Brink of Summer's End

Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of this documentary about the life and death of writer Paul Monette is this: before AIDS, Monette was a relatively unknown writer churning out poorly reviewed novels; after contracting AIDS, Monette not only found his voice as an activist, but produced a slew of notable works, including Borrowed Time: An AIDS Memoir and the National Book Award winner Becoming a Man: Half a Life Story. AIDS did not, of course, turn Monette into a great writer; however, it focused his attention and galvanized his purpose--time did not stretch luxuriantly into the future as it did for other young writers. Filmed over a three and a half year period, this Audience Award winner at both Sundance and the S.F. Int'l Lesbian & Gay Film Festivals directed by Monte Bramer and narrated by Linda Hunt combines home movie footage, interviews with family and friends, and most importantly, numerous candid clips with Paul Monette. While the film is too long (material from the early years and kudos from friends could have been trimmed back), Paul Monette: At the Brink of Summer's End is a powerful film which touches on many areas--growing up gay, struggling with AIDS, fighting homophobia, etc.--while offering an inspirational portrait. Monette well deserved the praise he received for helping to bring the AIDS crisis to public awareness through his writings and public appearances; but as Becoming a Man and other late works proved, Monette also attained his dream of becoming a noted American author. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (R. Pitman)