CANNES REVIEW: Strange Way of Life, Extraña forma de vida, Is a Vibrant Short Queer Western
Inspired by Ang Lee‘s Brokeback Mountain (2005), Pedro Almodóvar writes and directs his queer western Extraña forma de vida (Strange Way of Life), starring Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal, to the Cannes Film Festival.
The 31-minute glamourous film short submitted from Spain is led by Ethan Hawke (Jake), Pedro Pascal (Silva) and a supporting cast that includes George Steane (Joe), Pedro Casablanc (Charpentier), Manu Ríos (Singer), José Condessa (Young Silva), Jason Fernandez (Young Jake) Sara Salamo (Conchita), Ohiana Cueto (Calixta), and Daniela Medina (Patricia).
Two men that were smitten with each other at a time when it was unheard of meet once again in the Western town of Bitter Creek 25 years later, only to have unresolved feelings during a lifetime of secrets. Men were unheard of as sexual partners or lovers, and just as secretively as Sheriff Jake and Silva met years ago and shared an intimate and very sexy wine pouring from a hide into their mouths scene, they share an intimate reunion that comes with some family baggage and a bit of resistance. Jake does succumb to Silva’s advances and reminders of what they once had. But who wouldn’t with the very handsome Pedro Pascal juggling your senses? Silva’s son is wanted for the murder of Jake’s sister-in-law, and despite having an intimate rendevous when Silva shows up announced, he’s set on bringing him in.
Shot in Almería, Spain, with sets designed by the late Sergio Leone for the Man with No Name trilogy, this eye-popping, vibrant, and fashion-savvy Western was produced by the newly formed Saint Laurent Productions, which was created by the creative director of the Saint Laurent brand, Anthony Vaccarello.
While the short film only gives a glimpse into the life of the well-dressed estranged duo, there’s action and gunfighting, scenic landscapes, vibrant costumes, and loads of on-screen chemistry and heated passion, along with a steamy glimpse of Pascal, making this a full-on queer love story you don’t want to miss.
Strange Way of Life releases this fall and will surely be an awards contender. For more on the Cannes Film Festival, click here.
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