Forgive and Forget
- Director: Aisling Walsh
- Writer: Mark Burt
- Producer: Philip Hinchcliffe; Carmel Maloney
CGiii Comment
A complex character study...that starts off well and rapidly deteriorates, the chat show interjections are just vile, unbelievable and amateur.
Fine dialogue (in part) let down by immature and insensitive direction, amateur supporting cast and an unbelievable ending.
Begs the question (again): should a woman direct a gay story?
This should have been an important piece but, sadly, misses the mark entirely.
Trailer...
The(ir) Blurb...
David O'Neil, a plasterer and mature student Theo have been best mates for fourteen years and are practically inseparable. However, their friendship has become strained as Theo is about to move in with his long-term girlfriend, photographer Hannah. A raging jealousy awakes in David and he starts scheming to break up the loving couple using Hannah's insecurities against them. When the couple eventually separate David is in a quandary about his next move and is forced to confront his long-hidden homosexuality and feelings towards Theo. Eventually, David decides to reveal his sexual orientation and deep love for Theo very publicly by arranging for them both to appear as guests on Judith Adams' talk-show, "forgive and forget", with tragic consequences for their friendship and David's family.
Cast & Characters
Steve John Shepherd as David O'Neil;
John Simm as Theo;
Laura Fraser as Hannah;
Maurice Roeves as Michael O'Neil;
Ger Ryan as Ruth O'Neil;
Meera Syal as Judith Adams;
Nikki Amuka-Bird as Emma;
Annette Bentley as Michelle;
Isabella Marsh as Gabby;
Roger Griffiths as Carlton;
Stephen Graham as John;
Huggy Leaver as Paul;
Charles De'Ath as Alex;
June Page as Carol;
Paul Panting as Gerry