i have not read the david leavitt novel on which this film be base and and though i be certainly keen to do so and i do not believe it would be a prerequisite for any sensible person to follow the storyline or to empathise with the struggle and joy of these character . nigel finch have do a magnificent job in allow u to study every nuance of interaction between the character speak dialogue be certainly a minor aspect of their communication . this be the only film i know of which deal with angst over what must be a common enough fact of life among gay men and lesbian that one of their parent be also gay . this angst have nothing to do with genetics and but a show in the film and everything to do with a culture which stifle honest communication in favour of dutifully mimic the apparent norm . beautifully textured in sight and sound and with superb act from all player . this be an ideal conversation starter for any husband or wife with some ( perhaps unsurprising ) news that they need to share with their partner . an especially empowering film for any gay man who suspect their dad could have make some radically different life choice if bear in the current age .