An older gay couple’s love is put to the test in this bittersweet romance
We have many stories about first love or the sweeping rush of new romance, but tales of long-term companionship – all of its ups and downs – are much more rare in film and television, especially when it comes to gay relationships.
That makes the romantic dramedy Turtles feel like something wholly unique and all the more exciting.
From writer-director David Lambert, the French and English-language film introduces us to older gay couple Henri (Olivier Gourmet) and Thom (Dave Johns, who film fans may recognise from the Cannes-winning I, Daniel Blake), who have built a life in Brussels and have been together happily for 35 years. Or so it would seem …
After retiring from his job on the local police force, Henri finds himself depressed and bored with his life. Not even Thom putting on a sexy outfit, bringing him breakfast in bed, and playing their song – Ottawan’s “Hands Up (Give Me Your Heart)” – can cheer Henri up.
With each passing day, the distance between them grows wider and wider, and their once happy home becomes a battleground. But Thom still finds himself madly in love and isn’t willing to give up on them so easily.
He’ll do whatever it takes to make things right. The two sixty-something gay men even try using Grindr for the first time, which opens up a whole other world of complications for them.
Eventually, a desperate Thom realises: Their best bet at rekindling the spark in their romance? Asking for a divorce.
Turtles takes its name from the pair of pets – Topsy and Turvy – they’ve both been caring for since they first moved in together all those years ago. Once a symbol of their longevity, the turtles now might be the only thing keeping Henri and Thom together.
Lambert’s bittersweet film first premiered in France last autumn, then made its US debut at the SXSW film festival in March.
I can’t wait for Turtles to reach the UK.
Live at Lunchtime – Free Concerts at Bridgewater Hall
We’re so pleased to announce this year’s Live at Lunchtime series is back starting Friday 3 May.
Live at Lunchtime is an annual series of free, lunchtime performances running from May to September in the Stalls Foyer at The Bridgewater Hall. It is dedicated to being a platform for talented musicians of all ages and genres.
Doors open at 12.30pm and the music starts promptly at 12.45pm. All are free to attend and usually last 45 minutes.
The Stalls Cafe will also be open, so come grab some great food and listen to some amazing artists!
Performing this year are:
3 May – The Mancunium Consort
10 May – Chetham’s School of Music
17 May – NOMAD
24 May – Mali Hayes
31 May – Ricardo Gosalbo & Julieth Lozano
14 June – Music for the Mind and Soul: Guiliano Modarelli & Kousic Sen
21 June – Emily Mercer
2 August – Bay Bryan
30 August – Jazzette with Carol Jason
6 September – Ahmed Dickinson
20 September – So Many Beauties Collective
27 September – Dilettante
You can find more information by clicking here.
The Bridgewater Hall – Community Members Day 2024
Monday, 20 May – 9.30am – 3.30pm
(please arrive between 9.30am and 10.30am)
Throughout the day you’ll discover music from around the world as you take part in a singing workshop led by Simply Singing, take home a piece of original art inspired by live music with workshop leader and musician Lili-Holland Fricke, and also join the brilliant guides on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hall.
Tea, coffee and a light lunch will be provided. Please could you let us know of any dietary requirements? (Vegetarian, gluten free etc).
Places are limited and the deadline for booking a place is 9 May.
If you are interested in attending, please contact us here.
Voting Day
Don’t forget to bring photographic identification to vote. Your vote is your voice.
Research opportunity
Nina Rabbitt, Trainee Clinical Psychologist from The University of Manchester is looking for participants for research:
Do you have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder?
Do you identify as cisgender and lesbian or gay?
We would love to hear from you!
Check out the poster below and email to express your interest in taking part.
May the fourth be with you!
Out in the City 