Belgian filmmaker David Lambert is no stranger to skewering love and relationships in his films. His fourth feature Turtles examines the relationship between gay couple Henri and Thom.
We see Henri (Olivier Gourmet) on the first day of his retirement after a career as a police officer. We then see his husband of over thirty years Thom (Dave Johns). Henri is trying to relax and enjoy the new part of his life, but soon feels suffocated by the overbearing (yet loving) Thom, who dotes on him constantly. This new dynamic soon wears on Thom, who tries to find excitement in his new life in any way he can.
Even if that means threatening a divorce.
We see Thom suffering from a crisis of identity, which ultimately leads to him selling off his possessions (including his wedding ring) at a flea market as a means of starting over. A sense of boredom overwhelms Henri, which causes him to blow up at his lifelong partner. The film is a fascinating look at the sometimes loving, sometimes painfully mundane existence of a lifelong couple. Henri and Thom are simultaneously loving and bitter, at each other’s throats one moment and then reconciling the next. It is a film anyone who has been with someone for a long time can relate to. You get to know someone at a level far beyond a normal relationship when you’ve been together for decades.
Turtles is not only a portrait of a queer relationship, but one that has been ongoing for years. It is a fascinating drama, and one that absorbs the viewer as it progresses. Lambert squeezes tension out of completely ordinary moments, moments that are relatable for anyone who’s ever questioned their own relationship status. Turtles is a beautifully paced film, one that relies on the normal human experience for its drama. It would work well in a series of LGTBQ+ films, as well as those studying behavioral psychology or relationships.
How can Turtles be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
Turtles can be integrated into public libraries’ collection development as an essential resource for exploring queer relationships, identity, and aging. The film’s nuanced portrayal of a long-term gay couple offers a valuable perspective on LGBTQ+ life, particularly within the context of long-term relationships. It would fit well in collections focused on LGBTQ+ studies, relationship dynamics, aging, and human psychology. Libraries could also include it in their collections of films about love, retirement, and the complexities of personal identity, providing both entertainment and educational value.
What college courses and majors could benefit from using Turtles?
Turtles would be particularly useful for students in the following courses and majors:
- LGBTQ+ Studies: The film explores the dynamics of a long-term gay relationship, offering rich material for discussions about queer identities, aging within the LGBTQ+ community, and the evolution of same-sex partnerships over time.
- Psychology/Behavioral Science: Students studying psychology or behavioral science would benefit from the film’s exploration of emotional complexities, identity crises, and relationship dynamics, particularly in the context of aging and life transitions.
- Sociology: Turtles provides insights into the societal pressures and personal struggles faced by long-term couples, making it relevant for courses that examine relationships, social norms, and the concept of family.
- Film Studies: As a dramatic film with strong character development and tension drawn from everyday moments, it offers an example of how personal relationships can drive compelling narratives, making it suitable for analysis in film studies courses.
- Gender and Sexuality Studies: The film’s focus on a queer couple and the exploration of their emotional struggles would enrich discussions around gender, sexuality, and queer theory.
How could Parks and Recreation programs use Turtles in their educational initiatives?
Parks and Recreation programs could use Turtles to facilitate discussions about relationships, aging, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity in community settings. The film could be screened as part of an LGBTQ+ awareness program or during events focused on the importance of maintaining meaningful relationships throughout life. Following the screening, discussions could be organized to explore themes of relationship dynamics, identity, and coping with transitions, such as retirement. This would provide an opportunity for community members to reflect on their own relationships and personal growth.
What are the Public Performance Rights (PPR) considerations for screening Turtles?
For any public screening of Turtles in libraries, community centers, or educational institutions, Public Performance Rights (PPR) need to be secured. This typically involves purchasing the appropriate licensing from the distributor to show the film in a public setting. Institutions must confirm they have the necessary rights to legally host the screening and ensure that the filmmakers and distributors are properly compensated. It is essential to arrange for these rights before any scheduled event to avoid legal issues.
How could Turtles enhance special events on college campuses?
Turtles could be an excellent addition to special events on college campuses focused on LGBTQ+ issues, relationships, or aging. The film could be featured during LGBTQ+ Pride Month or during events centered around mental health and relationship wellness. It could also be part of a film series that examines the diversity of queer relationships across different life stages. Post-screening discussions could explore themes such as the challenges of long-term relationships, the impact of aging on identity, and the psychological complexity of couples facing transitions like retirement. This would create a space for students to reflect on their own relationships and the societal norms surrounding love and commitment.
Why is Turtles a strong candidate for movie licensing?
Turtles is a strong candidate for movie licensing due to its poignant portrayal of a long-term queer relationship and its exploration of themes that resonate across different demographics—identity, aging, and the complexities of love. The film’s relatability, combined with its focus on LGBTQ+ issues, makes it an important piece for educational institutions, public screenings, and community organizations. Its universal themes, along with its focus on aging and emotional intimacy, ensure its relevance for diverse audiences, making it an ideal candidate for licensing for both academic and public viewing.