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Review

Billy’s primary escape from a life of macho expectations and rugby-obsessed peers is his active fantasy life, usually envisioning himself as interplanetary heroine “Lana.” When he meets Roy, the school’s newest outcast – and rumored "poofter" – Billy finds an opportunity to explore his sexuality, but is too scared of his peers' repercussions to associate with him publicly. However, Billy drops all cares and pretensions when his family hires a sexy, young live-in farm laborer, Jamie. In between shamelessly flirting with Jamie, Billy fights with his tomboy best friend, Louise, and an increasingly jealous Roy.

Adapted from Graeme Aitken’s novel, 50 Ways presents a complex gay pre-teen protagonist we haven’t seen before: utterly likable, empowered and funny at times; self-centered, shallow and even detestable at others. Main brings a quirky yet engaging style to the film, captures striking visuals of the New Zealand countryside, and coaxes fantastic performances from his young leads. Fabulous indeed!

 -- Lawrence Ferber