Loggerheads MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +1 Content: -2 1/2

In this drama inspired by true events, Mark (Kip Pardue) has returned to the state he left many years earlier, but not to his hometown of Eden. Rather, he has made himself comfortable in Kure Beach, N.C., where he satisfies his obsession with saving the loggerhead turtle while ignoring his own fate that lies in the hands of his HIV+ status. Here, he meets George (Michael Kelly), a friendly local motel owner who takes in strays like Mark. Across the state in Asheville, Grace (Bonnie Hunt) quits her job to begin searching for the son she gave up when she was a teen. She wont let legalities or her doubting mother stop her. Back in Eden, Elizabeth (Tess Harper), a pastors wife, is torn between her wayward son and her staunchly conservative husband (Chris Sarandon), who hasnt spoken to Mark in seven years. As these three embark on their journeys, they are faced with uncertainty. Will they find what they are looking for?

Filmed on the beautiful beaches of North Carolina, Loggerheads has the potential to be an interesting film about preserving natures endangered inhabitants and righting the wrongs of ones life. Instead, viewers will see a homosexual lifestyle presented from a sympathetic perspective and clergy portrayed as cold, uncaring and pious. The religious figures in this film are more concerned about rules than relationships. When two men move in next door, the pastor and his wife do not invite them to church as it appears they may be gay. But when they discover that one is a widower and the other his brother-in-law, the invitation is extended, thereby exposing their self-righteousness. When their worst fears come true and they discover their homosexual son is dying from AIDS, the pastor believes that it is Gods punishment and continues to refuse contact. More offensive than the elements of homosexuality are the negative and hostile feelings toward Christianity throughout the film. Believers of all walks of faith will feel insulted and belittled by Loggerheads.

Preview Reviewer: Kellie Parmar
Distributor: Strand Releasing