2007, Canada
Drama, Family
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Extended version:
Man hates kids. Man gets kid. Man likes kid. The ultimate arc of Breakfast with Scot may be predictable, but the journey to the end is a thoughtful one.
Laurie Lynd directs the light dramedy based on Michael Downing’s novel. Thomas Cavanagh (formerly Tom for "Ed" fans) stars as an ex-hockey player turned sportscaster who must face his own sexual identity issues when his boyfriend gains temporary custody of his brother's girlfriend's son.
Unlike Cavanagh's Eric McNally who was known as a bruiser in the rink, young Scot is a bit more flamboyant with his free-flowing affections. Eric finds himself mortally embarrassed by the attention Scot receives when dressing up and acting effeminate, although Scot is confident in his behavior. As would be expected, Eric's heart begins to melt as he learns more about the orphaned kid and realizes that through his hardened actions, he is in fact trying to guard Scot from the painful childhood with which he is familiar.
In the background is Sam, Eric's hidden boyfriend portrayed by Ben Shenkman. It is a shame that the talents portrayed in "Angels in America" were not allowed more room in this production. Though it is understood that Eric keeps his private life private out of fear of ruin in his testosterone-driven sports career, there is little shown of the chemistry between the two men. Just as Eric would like it portrayed to the outside world, behind closed doors they seem merely roommates.
Perhaps this is meant to shed light on the foil that is their new housemate. Attracting the hateful, ignorant eye of the neighborhood bully and the immediate fascination of the school nerd and sickly kid, Eric does not know how to deal with the child he worked so hard at not becoming in order to save face.
Despite Eric's concerns, he never receives the scorn he expects from his coworkers or teammates. In fact, both the NHL and the Toronto Maple Leafs officially sanctioned the film, making it the first time a professional sports league has done so for a gay film.
Breakfast with Scot is a kind movie, subtly presenting that a family is what you make of it, not necessarily what is expected. As Eric recalls his harsh father and Sam deals with his irresponsible and self-absorbed brother, it becomes apparent that love can outweigh bloodlines and legal documents. Idealistic, perhaps, but the film becomes a charming story about the differences that bring people together.