Squeeze (1980)

Squeeze, a significant early New Zealand film, directly addresses the sensitive topic of homosexuality. It stands as a powerful statement by Richard Turner, aiming to end the silence around this issue. The story follows a complex romantic relationship between a young man and a successful executive, offering a realistic look at Auckland's LGBT community at the time. Paul Eady and Robert Shannon give compelling performances, portraying their characters' emotional depths. As their relationship develops, conflict arises when the executive is engaged. This intense drama examines love, desire, and societal pressures on relationships, questioning traditional norms. Though it faced early opposition, including challenges to funding, Squeeze has been widely acclaimed by film lovers. The LA Times praised the film's honesty and its empathetic portrayal of the main character, noting its ability to connect with viewers.