HOOK UP ???
Short Synopsis:
Witness the extraordinary journey of a decalogy of short films that unfolds over a decade. Each year, a new film catapults the audience forward in time, intimately following the lives of two men who first connect via a hook-up app.
From the moment of their initial encounter, these two men embark on a transformative odyssey, each chapter chronicling the evolving dynamics of their relationship.
Through this episodic narrative, we gain glimpses into the ever-changing landscape of their lives, the relationships and marriages they navigate, and the profound connection that binds them.
Long Synopsis:
Witness the extraordinary journey of a decalogy of short films that unfolds over a decade. Each year, a new film catapults us forward in time, intimately following the lives of two men who first connect through a hook-up app.
From the moment of their initial encounter, these two men embark on a transformative odyssey that transcends borders. As the films progress year by year, we witness their shared experiences attending conferences in foreign countries, each chapter chronicling the evolving dynamics of their relationship. Through this episodic narrative, we gain glimpses into the ever-changing landscape of their lives, the relationships and marriages they navigate, and the profound connection that binds them.
This mesmerizing series paints a nuanced portrait of the human experience, delving into the depths of personal growth, evolving relationships, and the inexorable passage of time. With each film, we witness the characters' personal transformations, the challenges they face, and the profound impact they have on each other's lives. As the years unfold, their journey becomes a reflection of the complexities and intricacies of love, friendship, and the enduring power of a deepening connection.
Spanning a decade, this decalogy of short films captures the ebb and flow of life, portraying the beauty, trials, and triumphs that accompany the passage of time. Immerse yourself in this captivating series as it unfolds year by year, revealing the richness of human experience and the profound bonds that can withstand the test of time.
"Hook Up" delves into the complexities of desire, secret encounters, and the blurred lines between personal and professional lives. It explores themes of identity, sexual exploration, and the consequences of hidden relationships.
Part 1: Sydney: "Hook Up ???" is the steamy introduction to the decalogy of short films that explores the complicated lives of two men, Daniel, mid 30s and Fred, also in his mid 30s, who engage in an NSA sexual encounter during a business conference. The story starts at a Sydney hotel/convention centre, at the hotel rooftop swimming pool, where Daniel swims laps alone. Fred, on the other hand, is in his hotel room engaging in provocative chats on a hook-up app. The two men exchange messages and agree to meet in Fred's room. After a passionate evening together, they part ways, but the connection lingers in their minds.
Fast forward to the conference the next day, where Daniel, sitting a few rows behind Fred, notices him but remains unseen. After a presentation, Daniel strategically positions himself, waiting for Fred to pass by. Vanessa, Fred's colleague, stops to let Daniel pass, and they exchange smiles. Later, at the conference after party, Daniel observes Fred entertaining a group of conference attendees with an amusing story. Daniel's colleague, Cristian, joins him and makes a remark about Vanessa's attractiveness. They engage in a light-hearted conversation about relationships.
In Daniel's hotel room, he anxiously browses a hook-up app, hoping to find Fred. There’s a knock at the door and Fred enters the hotel room. They share intense moments, exploring each other's bodies. The next morning with Daniel gazing at Fred while he showers. They engage in a conversation, discussing Fred's marriage and his experiences with sexuality. Fred shares a story about attending a swingers night with his wife, which caused strain in their relationship. After their second night of NSA sex, Daniel askes what Fred’s name is. He lies and says it’s John. Despite the complications, Daniel and Fred share a passionate kiss before parting ways.
In the hotel elevator the next day, Daniel, Fred, and Vanessa find themselves in an awkward situation. As they exchange pleasantries, Vanessa exits the lift, leaving Daniel and Fred alone. The two begin a friendly conversation, discovering mutual acquaintances and sharing their respective fields of expertise. With a hint of playfulness, Daniel mispronounces Fred's real name (Alfredo), leading to a humorous exchange. Surprising Fred, Daniel leans in and kisses him passionately just as the elevator reaches its destination. They hurriedly break apart, their connection undeniable. As the elevator doors close behind them, Daniel invites Fred to his room, hoping to continue the conversation over a bottle of red. Fred, torn between desire and his early flight, hesitates but ultimately declines, citing his need for sleep on the plane.
Resigned, Daniel bids Fred farewell, and the elevator ascends to the next floor. Outside the elevator, Daniel expresses his frustration with the situation but eventually retreats to his hotel room. Alone in the room, he reflects on his actions and berates himself for his impulsive behaviour. Suddenly, there's a knock on the door, startling Daniel. He cautiously opens it to find Fred standing there with a bottle of wine. Overwhelmed with desire, Fred pushes Daniel onto the bed, expressing his intentions.
Part 2: San Francisco: The story continues one year later as Daniel and Fred navigate their way through a series of encounters and conversations in San Francisco. Daniel walks through the vibrant streets of San Francisco, eventually ending up at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Inside the hotel bar, Daniel spots Fred among a group of women. At the bar they reconnect and share some light-hearted banter before Daniel invites Fred to join him and the group of women he was with. Paula, one of the group of women, playfully teases Fred. Feeling uncomfortable, Fred excuses himself and leads Daniel away from the bar. Worried about the situation, Fred expresses his concerns to Daniel, who suggests they sneak away to a different place.
They end up at iconic San Francisco gay bar, where they continue their conversation over drinks. They discuss their personal lives, with Daniel revealing he is in an open relationship, while Fred admits he is dissatisfied with married life. They share their experiences and observations, exploring topics such as family, career, and self-acceptance. As they spend more time together, the two men grow closer and head to another bar. Inside, they witness a lively drag queen, the compare of a Karaoke night, and engage in light-hearted banter about singing and dancing. The evening concludes with Daniel and Fred enjoying each other's company, savouring the vibrant atmosphere of the bar.
Overall, it’s a night of reconnection, self-reflection, and the exploration of personal desires and relationships. The story delves into themes of identity, sexuality, and the complexities of finding fulfilment in life.
Part 3: Rome: One year later, Daniel & Fred meet in Rome, where Daniel is intoxicated by Fred’s ability to speak fluent Italian. Deciding to embark on a train journey to Fred's hometown, Fred introduces Daniel to his cousins by passing him off as a colleague from Australia. As suspicions arise among the cousins regarding the nature of Fred and Daniel's relationship, tensions escalate. On their return journey to Rome, Daniel experiences a realization of his deep feelings for Fred. Playfully, Fred serenades Daniel with an Italian love song, creating a tender moment enhanced by the melody playing through his headphones.
Part 4: Paris: One year late, Daniel and Fred's next encounter begins in Paris, where they rendezvous at the Shakespeare and Co bookshop. Daniel guides Fred through the enchanting locations featured in the film "Before Sunset." Amidst the romantic ambiance, Fred becomes aware of Daniel's growing affection for him. Complicating matters, Fred bluntly reveals his desire for only no-strings-attached (NSA) encounters with men, leaving Daniel disheartened. Claiming fatigue from jet lag, Daniel abruptly departs, agreeing to meet later that evening. Dejected, Daniel returns to his hotel visibly upset.
Later that night, they reconvene at a gay nightclub. After a few drinks, Fred leads Daniel to the dance floor, where their bodies move to the music. A mysterious, leather-clad man catches Fred's eye, mouthing in French, "Je te veux" (I want you). Intrigued, Fred joins the man, and they share a passionate and aggressive kiss.
As Daniel watches from the dance floor, Fred whispers into the man's ear. Inviting Daniel to join them, he cautiously crosses the dance floor. Fred passionately kisses Daniel, followed by the leather-clad man. The trio shares simultaneous kisses, and the leather-clad man takes them by the hand, leading them out of the club to the street.
Upon reaching the open air, Daniel hesitates. Expressing his reservations, he suggests to Fred that they retreat to his hotel room. Unwilling to miss out on the moment, Fred adamantly refuses. Proceeding down the street, Fred and the leather-clad man share kisses, leaving a dejected Daniel behind.
Part 5: Athens: A year later, at a conference in Athens, Fred and Daniel reconnect. Observing their colleagues, Vanessa and Cristian, attempting to conceal their relationship without success, Fred and Daniel share a moment of reflection. "I wonder if anyone suspects us," Fred ponders. Daniel dismisses the idea, pointing out Vanessa and Cristian's inability to hide their affection. He adds, "You never look at me like that." A handsome Greek waiter named Costas approaches them with drinks. Engaging in conversation, Daniel shares his connection to Melbourne's Greek community. Despite Fred's attempts to interject, the banter between Daniel and Costas continues. Costas suggests showing Daniel around Athens, and they agree to meet the next morning at the Acropolis.
After a tired exit from the conference, alone in the hotel lift, Fred and Daniel share a passionate kiss. The following day, they rendezvous with Costas at the Acropolis. As Costas kisses Daniel on the cheek, an awkward moment arises when Fred realizes he is not a part of the plan. After resolving the situation with an extra ticket, they ascend the Acropolis together. During their walk, Costas confides in Daniel about his gay identity, prompting Daniel to disclose his own orientation. When asked about his relationship with Fred, Daniel awkwardly clarifies that they are work colleagues, and Fred is straight and married. At the summit, Fred notices Costas's interest in Daniel, sparking jealousy. Observing their happiness, Fred is conflicted.
The next day, at the airport, Daniel prepares to board his flight. As he approaches security, Fred catches up with him, surprising Daniel with a passionate farewell kiss. The intense moment leaves them both unsteady on their legs. After saying their goodbyes, Daniel hesitates to break away, eventually departing as security closes behind him. Visibly upset, Fred wanders aimlessly through the airport, grappling with his emotions.
Part 6: Madrid: A year later, the scene shifts to Madrid, where Fred eagerly anticipates Daniel's arrival. Preparing a romantic table for two at the hotel restaurant, Fred is disappointed when Daniel doesn't show up. He leaves a message on Daniel's phone, urging him to contact him upon arrival. Thinking Daniel's flight may be delayed, Fred decides to take a walk around Madrid. Simultaneously, Daniel, also opting for a stroll, listens to Fred's message.
In a split-screen scenario, both Daniel and Fred traverse the iconic Gran Vía street, looking for each other but at slightly different times. Their separate journeys lead them through various Madrid landmarks like Museo del Prado, Palacio Real, El Retiro Park, Puerta de Alcalá, Templo de Debod, El Rastro Market, culminating at Puerta del Sol. The split-screen continues, capturing Fred searching for Daniel and Daniel trying to avoid Fred.
At Puerta del Sol, Vanessa meets Fred and takes him to a nearby café, where, to Fred's surprise, Cristian and Daniel are already present. Vanessa and Cristian reveal their secret romance. Despite feigning surprise, Fred and Daniel celebrate the revelation with the famous Tinto de Verano cocktail. Unbeknownst to Vanessa and Cristian, Fred and Daniel had suspected their romantic involvement for years. The unexpected disclosure adds a touch of humour to the evening, and they all share a moment of laughter and camaraderie.
On the way back to their hotel, Daniel opens up to Fred about the reason for avoiding him. Six months ago, after returning from Athens, Daniel formed a relationship with Craig and they now live together. Despite the sudden end of their connection, Fred accepts the situation, acknowledging that he has no claim to the relationship as he is still married and hasn't come out. Fred admits to Daniel that he has only recently come to terms with being gay. Reluctantly agreeing to cut ties with Daniel, they embrace and share a timid kiss, which transforms into a passionate moment.
Breaking away from the kiss, Fred confesses his love for Daniel, who believes it's a reaction to him meeting someone new. Fred counters, expressing that he fell in love with Daniel the moment they met five years ago. Daniel pushes Fred away, walking off, leaving Fred upset and in tears, feeling hopeless about their relationship. Unexpectedly, Daniel returns, stating disbelief at Fred giving up so easily. He encourages Fred to fight for their love, and they embrace, rekindling their connection.
Part 7: Berlin:
Part 8: New York:
Part 9: Melbourne:
Part 10: Bologna: