Is affection enough to keep a relationship going? It's true that it can create a strong connection between people, but is that really enough when other problems pop up—like the everyday difficulties of life, disagreements about important goals, trouble living together, or a decline in physical intimacy? These kinds of issues often become clear during major life changes, such as retirement, particularly if partners have different ideas about what that next chapter should look like. This is what Henri (Olivier Gourmet), a recently retired Brussels police officer, and his longtime partner, Thom (Dave Johns), a former drag queen and seller of used goods who now mostly stays home, are dealing with. Thom had been looking forward to this new period in their lives, but Henri has started distancing himself, wanting to pursue his own path—even if that involves seeing other men, something he doesn’t try to hide. Understandably, Thom is devastated and tries to win back his husband's affection, but nothing seems to work, which makes their relationship increasingly bitter (though often quite funny). So, what does the future hold for this couple? Divorce certainly feels like a possibility. But do they really want that? These are the questions explored with insight, honesty, and sensitivity in writer-director David Lambert’s fourth film, a bittersweet romantic comedy-drama about how things can change. It thoughtfully looks at the self-reflection and reevaluations that come with retirement, similar to what's seen in the Swiss comedy-drama “Golden Years” (“Die goldenen Jahre”) (2022), as well as the intense conflict that can develop between partners, like in the dark comedy classic “The War of the Roses” (1989). The film’s carefully written and well-paced script examines all sides of this situation through a story that's touching, wickedly funny, heartbreaking, and heartwarming. This is supported by excellent performances from the two main actors, as well as the endearing presence of a police dog named Sherlock, who plays an important part in how the story unfolds. This was easily the best film I saw at this year’s Reeling Film Festival (and perhaps one of the best I've ever seen about relationship problems, no matter someone’s sexual orientation). As the song “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do” so accurately points out, the movie really captures that feeling and does it with a level of eloquence and realism that you don’t often see on screen. Couples facing similar challenges should check this one out; it will probably give them more practical advice about how to deal with their problems than any marriage counseling session ever could. Like the animals referenced in the film's title, “Turtles” brings attention to the issues commonly encountered in these situations—and honestly shows that partners can’t avoid confronting them by simply withdrawing from each other.

Source on TMDB