MovieChat Forums > Shelter (2009) Discussion > After the first kiss

After the first kiss

posted 11 years ago by blindvias-071407
2 replies | jump to latest

I thought their first kiss was sweet, especially how respectful Shaun was towards Zach, willing to put on the breaks when perhaps most guys would have been much more assertive and tried for more passion.

My question is, the next time they met, Shaun focused on Zach's art and said nothing about the kiss. Did that upset Zach? Was he pissed off that Shaun took that liberty and then ignored that it happened, as if it was not significant to Shaun while clearly it must have been a big deal to Zach? After all, it was probably Zach's first same sex kiss and a milestone in his life.

The first time I saw the movie I didn't think about that, but now that I've seen it several times I begin to wonder if Zach feels let down or used by that kiss.

I like the movie a lot and bought my own copy.

[–] glennh69 11 years ago

IMO, both Shaun's & Zach's reaction to the "first kiss" was portrayed well. Shaun could sense he was receiving affectionate vibes from Zach that went beyond that of an ordinary "surfing buddy" (aka "gaydar"). At the same time, it was obvious to Shaun that Zach made no suggestion that he had ever considered dating--or been interested in--another guy (leaving Shaun with "mixed vibes").

Shaun took advantage of the opportunity of Zach's drunken state in order to test the waters to see if the gay vibes were valid. Had Zach been incensed and pushed Shaun away, Shaun could simply apologize & dismiss the attempted kiss as a reckless, drunken mistake. Conversely, if Zach were open to the kiss, it would provide a "green light" that Zach was probably interested in exploring either bisexuality or homosexuality.

Afterwards, Shaun was astute enough to know the difference between an impulsive drunken kiss and reciprocal sexual passion, so he intentionally didn't take things too far. He also knew that it was Zach's first same-sex experience and that Zach might subsequently experience confusion and/or guilt---so Shaun realistically backs off and never revisits the issue. Rather, he waits for Zach to bring it up or reciprocate if-and when-he is ready.

From Zach's perspective, he is clearly uncomfortable with the realization that he enjoyed the kiss--which means he might be either bisexual or homosexual. His realistic reaction is to block & deny the episode as if it never happened. It's not that he is "unfulfilled" or feels "used" by Shaun, rather he is confused and ashamed by the fact that he enjoyed the kiss--and what that means about his own sexual orientation.

[–] mycalangelo 11 years ago

I too loved that first kiss. It was delicate and beautiful. Plus it wasn't that fake Hollywood pressing mouths together kiss. They really kissed. The looks on their faces. The glances at each other before it happened and afterwards. Bravo to both actors for a great scene.