A Very Natural Thing

A Very Natural Thing is a poignant drama that explores the intricacies of a same-sex relationship in 1960s America. The film, directed by Sir William Friedkin and released in 1972, is a landmark in LGBTQ+ cinema, shedding light on the complexities of gay relationships amidst societal pressures and limited understanding. At its core, the movie delves into the story of David, a contemplative and introspective young man who has emerged from the confines of a monastery. Having severed ties with his spiritual past, David is navigating the realities of the secular world, seeking to connect with others on a deeper level. His chance encounter with Mark marks a pivotal moment in his life, as they both embark on a journey of love, growth, and self-discovery. David's affinity for Mark stems from their intellectual curiosity and shared introspection. They bond over discussions on philosophy, love, and the human condition. The film skillfully captures the quiet intensity of their interactions, conveying the deep emotional resonance between the two characters. As they grow closer, David, still reeling from his monastic past, asks Mark to join him in a communal existence, marking a significant milestone in their relationship. The early chapters of their cohabitation are basked in a serene glow, with David painting a domestic idyll. His idiosyncratic domestic arrangements suggest the fragile stability he craves, while Mark, the more laid-back counterpart, seems to accept David's eccentricities. David's definition of commitment takes the shape of an unwavering commitment to Mark's well-being, reflecting the profound bond he feels. For David, the bond with Mark transcends a romantic partnership, embodying the essence of marriage – love, trust, and companionship. However, their blissful coexistence is soon disrupted by an irreconcilable difference in their perception of commitment. As they struggle to articulate their needs and desires to each other, a chasm widens between them, reflecting the complexities of human communication. David, still caught in the web of his monastic past, yearns for the stability and constancy that Mark appears to eschew. Mark, though deeply committed to David, seems to crave freedom to explore, sowing the seeds of discord in their relationship. David's desperate attempts to reconcile his vision of a life together prove futile, as Mark's desires clash with his vision of domestic stability. Mark's openness to new experiences creates tension between the two, as David grapples with the fragility of their relationship. The conflict between David and Mark is not merely a battle of wills but a struggle to reconcile the inherent duality in their relationship. David seeks a life of stability and companionship, while Mark craves the thrill of exploration. A Very Natural Thing poignantly raises questions about the elasticity and resilience of human relationships. As David wrestles with the consequences of their differences, the film forces us to confront the precarious nature of love and commitment. The narrative masterfully interweaves themes of self-discovery, intellectual exploration, and vulnerability. A Very Natural Thing is a nuanced exploration of two human beings in search of genuine connection, seeking to transcend societal norms and create their own reality. Ultimately, the film presents a poignant portrayal of the heartache and introspection that often accompany the end of a relationship. Though the film's narrative seems to gravitate towards a melancholic conclusion, David's inner journey suggests that even the darkest experiences can be transformative. His struggle to reconcile the loss and the desire for healing is deeply empathetic, humanizing the universal pain that often accompanies heartbreak. As David emerges from the shadows of his relationship, he slowly reconfigures his sense of self, laying the groundwork for an introspective journey of self-renewal and recovery. In this process, A Very Natural Thing illuminates not merely the complexities of gay relationships but also the profound impact of heartbreak on the human psyche. As a landmark film in the LGBTQ+ canon, A Very Natural Thing remains an unforgettable exploration of the human heart, capturing with great sensitivity the intricacies of same-sex relationships during an era of restricted freedoms and limited understanding.