Never in a million years did I imagine a low-budget gay-oriented production could bring actors of such high caliber on board. Dean Stockwell (Quantum Leap) and Jason Behr (Roswell) make this film stand out in the video store. Jason doesn't get any hotter than this!!! Plus, he can act!Briefly, Rites of Passage is a thriller that will keep you guessing all the way to the bitter end. Del (Stockwell) is caught having an affair by his successful son, D.J. After wrapping up a business trip in San Francisco, they go off to the family cabin to talk things out where they find Campbell (Behr) already staying. Campbell and his father are not on the best of terms after dad has a knee-jerk reaction upon seeing Campbell and his boyfriend, Billy, together. The incident happened well over a year ago, and the two are forced to interact now with D.J. in the middle.There are so many character revelations in this movie, I found it difficult to get wrapped up into the story. Just when I think I've discovered what makes the characters tick and get into the heat of the moment, another element of a character (mostly Campbell) is revealed, and I find my bewildered self sitting on the living room couch again. Therefore, I am probably overanalyzing the film, but only because it had the potential to be so much more with a few small changes. Not that it makes any difference, but the screenplay is a semi-autobiographical tale by Victor Salva who also directs.The first gripe is the opening scene. Despite how it plays out, this is mostly a psychological thriller. Furthermore, the movie does not revolve around these characters. We don't even meet the central character, Campbell, until 12 minutes into the film. It would have helped if the conflicted relationship among the father and two sons was well established at the beginning of the movie, and leave the twists for the plot. Perhaps it would spoil some of the suspense, but I think it would allow the viewer to identify with a character and put themselves into that character's position.I would have also toned down the abundant use of nicknames for each character. It is not confusing, but not realistic either. And when there are only two people in a scene, it is rather pointless to be using names at all except to get the other person's attention.* Begin Spoiler* The ending is painful to watch. I'll attempt to discuss it without revealing too much. Despite his heroics, Campbell comes out looking very needy and stupid, and you realize he now has a lot more to deal with than the frigid relationship with his dad. With such an open-minded and supportive brother, I don't understand why Campbell needs his father's acceptance. Obviously, Campbell is still very much in love with Billy, but the new relationship between Campbell and Frank is not explored to any great length in this film. On the surface, I find it hard to believe these gruff and condescending escapees could convince even the most gullible person to go along with their plot. One would think D.J., the big shot attorney, would at least have the foresight to burn the letters before the police arrived; thereby, destroying the incriminating evidence. The story could have ended on a brighter note if the family had no prior relationship with the escapees. *End Spoiler*Overall, this movie falls a little short on drama and a little long on suspense. The acting won't leave you disappointed, though. If you like this genre, The Deep End (2001) is another (only slightly gay) thriller with a more positive ending.

This movie is unusual in the way that it has an all-male cast.That aspect of the movie drives the mood and intensity from beginning to end.I thought the father's (Dean Stockwell) turn-around in feelings to be genuinely believable as the film's events cause him to re-evaluate what and who are most important in his life.James Remar delivers a wonderfully increasingly sinister performance in this film. Although we've seen him in so many roles. He normally doesn't have a character as expanded as this and you get to see what he's really capable of.And lastly, but not leastly, Jason Behr shines as poor confused and bereft Campbell. He's made so many poor decisions, and yet you just want to put your arms around him and say that everything will be all right.If you thought Max Evans (Roswell) would always be your favorite character for Jason Behr, Campbell will make you think twice.This movie is definately a drama. If you are looking for something light and funny, save this movie for another night. If the big box office movies have been leaving you flat lately, this independent movie is a good one to restore your faith that great acting-not a big budget-is what makes a movie really good.

The filmscript for "Rites of Passage" was not only intelligently but skillfully written and brilliantly executed by Mr. Victor Salva who, I understand, comes from the training ground of F. F. Coppola. If this is so it comes as no surprise since he led this project with the same sort of fresh energy and panache! It is my belief that audiences have missed the great 'integrity' with which this film quite simply reeks! Had it been promoted as it might have been I feel that audiences may have lifted this film to its rightful place. Beyond Mr. Salva's seemingly limitless gifts there was, also, the music which gave the film its feeling of extreme intensity and kept me on edge throughout while wringing my emotions simultaneously. And, not the least nor the last brilliant element to add to the whole, there were the actors who treated ensemble acting like an unparalleled "Lucia di Lammermoor" cast of singers singing the sextette with sublime artistry. Seldom in today's market have I seen a film elevate the film medium to such heights of style and art! I really feel that any film buff who hasn't seen "Rites of Passage" has missed one of those lyrical and rare gems which comes our way all too infrequently and leaves the viewer feeling cleansed and good to be alive! Mr. Salva, I salute and thank you and your entire team!!!

When I first heard about this movie all I knew was that it's about a dysfunctional family and escaped prisoners in an isolated cabin. It sounded like a big waste of my time, but as I learned more about the story I felt I had to see it. It took some time to track down a copy to rent, but it was worth it. The story is very moving and I could not stop thinking about it for days. The acting is outstanding all around, but Jason Behr is phenomenal. This is a great movie, but I must admit that I was not thrilled with the last nighttime scenes, but that's my own personal opinion. Watch the movie and judge for yourselves. It's worth the time and effort.