We Forgot to Break Up: The Soundtrack of Growing Up
A few days ago, we had the opportunity to catch an early screening of We Forgot to Break Up before its US premiere at Frameline48, which is tomorrow, June 28th (if you’re in the Bay Area, tickets are still available here). And you know what? We haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since. It’s one of those films that sticks with you long after the credits roll, for all the right reasons.
The film will be theatrically distributed in Canada by Northern Banner, and although international dates haven’t been announced yet, we really hope you all get the chance to see it soon. We’ve mentioned this before in some of our other reviews, but as movie lovers, it’s important to support indie films so they can find their audience and get the recognition they deserve. There are so many amazing stories out there that need to be seen. But anyway, we’re getting a bit off track. Back to We Forgot to Break Up.
Based on the award-winning book Heidegger Stairwell by Kayt Burgess and the acclaimed 2017 short film of the same name that captivated audiences at Frameline42, this new take on the story places a trans rock star in the spotlight without centering the story in his transness. Directed by Karen Knox, We Forgot to Break Up is more than just a story about a band’s journey to success; it’s an exploration of youth, identity, and the transformative power of music.
We Forgot to Break Up: A Symphony of Identity and Growth
The film follows a diverse group of musicians in the small Canadian town of Emmett Lake, who come together to form a band called The New Normals. Set in the early 2000s indie music scene, it invites us to dust off our VHS camcorders and punk audio cassettes for an exhilarating ride with these talented, young folks.
From the very first scene, we are drawn into Evan’s (Lane Webber) world. The film opens with our protagonist having an interview that triggers a nostalgic journey back to 1999, where his history with music and personal identity began. Evan and his girlfriend Isis (June Laporte) are the heart and soul of their nameless garage band, which includes Angus (Jordan Dawson) on drums and Coco (Hallea Jones) on bass. When Angus’s brother, Lugh (Daniel Gravelle), a shy but insanely talented guitarist with an awkward charm, joins the band, their dynamic shifts in fascinating ways—and The New Normals are born.
What stands out in this film is its commitment to authenticity, the film excels in portraying the band’s early days. The scenes in Emmett Lake, filled with garage rehearsals and late-night hangouts, capture the raw energy, passion, and angst of youth. Evan’s transition, subtly woven into the narrative, is portrayed with a refreshing normalcy. His relationships, particularly with Isis and Lugh, are complex and beautifully messy, reflecting the reality of growing up and discovering oneself.
As the band moves to Toronto in 2001, the story delves into the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity while chasing success. Living in a cramped apartment, juggling day jobs, and navigating evolving relationships, the band’s journey is a rollercoaster of emotions. The tension between Evan’s ambition and the group’s dynamics reaches a peak when Lugh confronts the band about their lack of focus, sparking a renewed commitment to their music.
The film’s portrayal of fame and its impact on personal relationships is key. Evan’s rise as a sex symbol and leading man, and the ensuing struggles with his identity and loyalty add depth to his character. The affair between Evan and Lugh, kept secret from Isis, brings a powerful layer of drama and heartbreak, that culminates in a raw confrontation that eventually leads to the band’s breakup.
In the aftermath, we see Evan grappling with the consequences of his actions and the disintegration of his band. His solo career brings him success, but it also leaves him with a haunting sense of emptiness as he reflects on what he’s lost along the way. The glitz and glamour of his newfound fame can’t fill the void left by the dissolution of The New Normals and the friendships that once defined his life.
As he returns to Emmett Lake for a tribute to the band, the reunion is bittersweet. The town that once felt too small now serves as a poignant backdrop for the unresolved feelings and lingering connections that each band member carries. The meeting is a raw and emotional journey, highlighting the complex tapestry of their shared history and the individual paths they’ve taken since.
We Forgot to Break Up is a profound exploration of youth, growing up, finding your identity, and the sacrifices that come with chasing your dreams. We particularly appreciate how the characters’ identities, while essential to their art, aren’t the sole focus of the narrative. Evan’s journey is a mix of ambition, desire, and self-discovery. His sexual identity and artistic passion are deeply intertwined, but they don’t define one another. This isn’t a story about a trans man and his band; it’s a universal tale of growing up, discovering who you are, and navigating the tumultuous journey of life and love.
Karen Knox’s direction masterfully portrays the journey from youthful idealism and high expectations to the harsh realities of adulthood. We Forgot to Break Up beautifully illustrates that we humans are fallible and often make mistakes and that achieving our dreams often requires great sacrifices. With a solid cast across the board, the actors skillfully convey the raw emotions and complexities of their characters, adding depth and authenticity to the film’s powerful narrative.
As we mentioned earlier, We Forgot to Break Up is a film that lingers in your mind for all the right reasons. It’s a beautiful, emotional rollercoaster that will resonate with anyone who’s ever chased a dream, faced the messiness of relationships, and struggled to find their place in the world. Plus, it has a great soundtrack, don’t miss it!
We Forgot to Break Up is coming to theaters soon. Stay tuned to this space for updates on release dates and more. In the meantime, follow us on X and Instagram for all queer stuff!
Featured Image: Courtesy of Motel Pictures Inc.
