Review: 'On the Fringe of Wild' Underscores Pain of Homophobia

Sociologists, the writers of LGBTQ+ history, and the rest of us want to proclaim that there's been much progress toward the acceptance of homosexuality, but you wouldn't find a whole lot of evidence of that in crucial parts of "On the Fringe of Wild." Written by Sorelle Doucet, the saga opens with a scene of high school bullying targeting Peter, one of three teens we soon see struggling in horrible, hateful home lives.

They are understandably intimidated and/or defensive in reaction to their parents – a collection of apparently rotten, rejecting, hate-spewing screamers, with the exception Peter's mother. She tries unsuccessfully to talk sense into her crassly homophobic husband. He's one of those who states that real men don't cry, but yelling is prized. He's no prize as a parent, and thinks he can "toughen up" the lad, roughing it out in the woods, toting a rifle for hunting. In another unhappy home, Jack is tormented by his mega-nasty drinker of a dad as well as the third boy, the aforementioned bully (who has his own sexuality issues, sadistic inclinations, sniggering sort-of girlfriend, and miserable mother).

Yes, some of these people are as cold as the Canadian snow around them, so getting the shivers and a case of claustrophobia are to be expected for Peter, Jack, and film audiences. Warily watching, waiting, and sympathizing, we are encouraged and relieved when both Peter and Jack manage to escape from their dreaded dads, encounter each other in the freezing woods, and warm up to each other. A cabin becomes their oasis, and they get to spend some time together as grateful, mutually supportive survivors and friends - just the two of them. Will both drop their defenses and openly admit their gayness? And, as long as we're hoping, will they fall in love and have a happy, coupled life somewhere? And will parents and that bully and girl ever come around in their attitudes? Or will they instead come around looking for the guys, banging on the door? Will some kind of tearful tragedy (or two) be coming around the corner? The answers are not all "Yes" or "No."

Under Emma Catalfamo's direction, with some incidents and motivations unclear, "On the Fringe of Wild" is on the fringe of feeling alternately uncomfortable and inspiring. As for the latter, we're led to believe that the scarred human spirit can survive. While some actors have thoroughly thankless roles, thoughtful and sympathetic performances come from Cameron Stewart (Jack) and Harrison Browne (Peter). The movie was originally titled "Peter and the Rabbit," referencing the recurring furry creature he lovingly sketches (and is mocked for), and which he's asked to see just as a potential meal.

As a historical aside, it may be interesting to note that the soulful and convincing portrayal of Peter is just one accomplishment for Harrison Browne, who only recently switched gears to pursue acting after coming out as trans amid a career as a professional hockey player in women's leagues/teams in Canada and the U.S. He is a pioneer and spokesperson at numerous events and meetings for trans visibility, rights, and understanding.

"On the Fringe of Wild" available today on DVD and VOD, platforms including iTunes/Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, Vudu, DirecTv, and through additional local cable & satellite providers