"Match"

 2014 * R * 1h 32m   Warning: If you're looking for an action-packed thriller, look elsewhere. However, if you're looking for a gently-paced, thoughtful drama that's full of surprises and riveting performances, put this film in your queue. It's based on a Tony Award winning play by Stephan Belber and stars Sir Patrick Stewart, Carla Gugino, and Matthew Lillard. The film takes place ialmost entirelyn a Greek diner and in a NYC apartment. 

A young woman Lisa (Gugino) is working on her dissertation on the history of dance in 1960s New York City. She's accompanied by her husband Mike (Lillard), who happens to be a tough cop. They meet with Tobi( Stewart) a dance instructor at Julliard, at a Greek diner in New York. After interviewing Tobi for a short while, he invites the couple to his apartment. There things get interesting. Tobi just loves talking about his colorful past in the world of dance. He makes no bones about being gay, but he's had numerous flings with several women during the wild "free love" 60s. 

You get the sense that the couple has some ulterior motive in meeting with Tobi, and the story takes a number of surprising twists and turns. And the ending completely caught me off guard. I have nothing but respect for Sir Patrick for taking on such a challenging and different role like this. I already knew he was an amazing talent, but it's refreshing to see someone of his caliber make a powerful indie film like this one. I was glued to y screen for the entire hour and a half. I'll wager you will be as well. 

4 1/2 out of 5 stars 

Currently streaming for free with your library card on Kanopy.com. Also on Plex TV and Prime Video.