Josh O’Connor portrays Johnny, a discontented farmer in rural England who frequently turns to alcohol and casual encounters with the village's other gay man, Harry Lister Smith, in a compelling performance. His father, portrayed by Ian Hart, is no longer capable of managing the farm and now simply adds to his son’s sense of hopelessness. The pair bring in a Romanian worker, Alec Secaeanu, for assistance with physical…

The frequent comparisons to “British Brokeback Mountain” do a disservice to what is truly a remarkable movie—and an impressive first feature directorial effort. The story unfolds at a measured speed, which I appreciate because I enjoy seeing stories develop gradually; some viewers may find it less engaging, but it allows for a deeper connection with the characters and their environment, so that when events progres…