Zerophilia (2005)

It's no definitive masterpiece but it's damn close.

For all the hype it got I was expecting a lot more!

The story, direction, characters, and writing/dialogue is akin to taking a tranquilizer shot to the neck, but everything else was so well done.

It is neither dumb nor smart enough to be fun, and spends way too much time with its boring human characters.

The blurb/description for this is actually quite misleading. Luke isn't insecure in his masculinity until his recently post-pubescent body starts becoming more feminine as his sexual desires become increasingly intense. The speculative fiction element proposes that Luke has a certain extra chromosome, which doesn't allow him to change sex at will, but rather to spontaneously switch gender after climax. This makes for a few rather amusing scenarios, as Luke so aptly puts it:"I make out with a girl, I start turning into one. You've gotta admit that's a little weird."While the science in this film is questionable at best, I absolutely love the idea of spontaneous gender-swapping.Of course this situation gets more complicated for Luke as he starts falling in love with a girl… even though he sometimes finds himself more physically attracted to her brother.Aside from the hilarity that ensues when a teenage boy starts turning into a girl, there's an underlying thread of philosophy here, an important one that raises the question of gender identity, of love in the face of flexible sexuality, and of self-actuality. It's a refreshingly light-hearted take on some serious subject matter that ultimately results in a more spiritual-sexual awakening rather than just a typical coming-of-age watershed. While not explicit, the film doesn't shy away from open discussions of sex, including masturbation and the loss of virginity so be prepared.I'd like to leave you with another favorite quote from the movie, which not only sums up the gist of this story and why I think this film is so special:Luke: "I am supposed to be a guy."Michelle: "There's no supposed to be anything. You just are."

I saw ZEROPHILIA on Showtime last night; and, I found it to be is a very unusual and unique comedy, to say the least.First off, the cast is wonderful and each character is likable. That's only because the acting was so exceptional. Taylor Handley as Luke; and, Marieh Delfino as Luka really pulled this one off. They look enough alike; but, it's the attitude, mannerisms and gestures that really work. Also, Rebecca Mozo as Michelle and Kyle Schmid as Max are excellent foils to our hero/heroine. In addition, I was absolutely thrilled to see Gina Bellmen (of Coupling fame) in her role as Dr. Sydney – WOW, what a performance! ZEROPHILIA is easy-going and non-judgmentally in its presentation of gender roles – I mean just look at the title sequence, "Microangelo Entertainment" and "Scambled Egg Productions" – these guys aren't taking themselves too seriously.

This film is an affirmative coming of age film for a teenage man with a condition that makes him change sex when he has sex.The plot is very original and innovative. I have never thought about anything remotely like that before! On the surface, it is a film about an imaginary genetic condition called zerophilia. It explores self discovery and self acceptance. Luke finds out that he in fact like guys, tries to change this but fails. Then he accepted himself as who he is, and starts a relationship with Max. This very much mirrors the sexual discovery of adolescents.This film brings a positive message about self acceptance, as highlighted in the symbolic scene of Luke given a light blue top for ladies. It's OK whoever you choose to be.The positive message is portrayed in an entertaining way. I hope this message can reach a wider audience!

Writer/Director Martin Curland did a great job. I loved it.I was invited to a screening of Zerophilia at Westwood Crest Theatre November 16, 05 in the LA area and it was great to see the theatre packed. It's a romantic comedy with a twist. The audience loved it. I'm not one to laugh easily at films, but, this one had me laughing out loud a lot.I hope these guys get distribution.The theatre was packed and everyone was clapping and smiling at the end. You could tell by the faces that everyone loved it.I went in without knowing a thing about the premise line and never looked at the trailer. It took me by complete surprise. A cute movie that really does a great job of highlighting love for a person no matter what the gender is. It's a great comic fantasy. With a twist I'd never thought of.You are what you are! Good job...;)