i second "Before Night Falls". I loved that depiction of Havana's renaissance just before the fall. That period of growth in Cuban literature, art and music seemed so romantic. Which of course makes it's fall so much more tragic. And Javier Bardem is amazing in that film.
also, has anyone seen "Buck and Chuck"? Okay, not sure if I'd call it a gay friendly film. It's weird and quirky but good.
Total Eclipse is kinda funky, especially coming from the director of a great flick like Europa Europa. Eclipse has kind of become more known for having a full frontal nude shot of Leonardo DiCaprio (who, TLA Video quips, isn't so 'titanic').
Before Night Falls was terrific, loved it. I have a couple of clients who actually did go through some of the torture that he endures in the book/movie, it was heinous. Personally I still don't have a grip on how to evaluate Castro's influence on Cuba, but the movie is great, especially for Johnny Depp as a smuggling drag queen.
And Chuck and Buck, what a cool, funny movie! Very atypical 'gay movie', more about obsession and the desire to stay a child. The two male stars are good, but Lupe Ontivero really knocked it out in that movie. Definitely worth a rent if you're in the mood for a very offbeat movie.
Juan