I seem to have this odd way of seeing films that nobody else has seen. Of course, part of this can be attributed to my love of the small, independent film. Even more of this can be attributed to my love of quirky, bad films. "10 Attitudes" is both of these things...it's sort of like the car wreck that you can't help looking at.

"10 Attitudes" is a 2001 film directed by Michael Gallant and tells the story of a Jewish man, played by Jason Stuart, who finds out that his boyfriend of 10 years is cheating on him. Devastated, he wants to return to his home in Cleveland. His friend, played by Chris Cowan, convinces him to stay by promising to fix him up with 10 dates over the next two weeks and finding him Mr. Right. These 10 dates represent the "10 attitudes."

The film radiates low-budget with obvious use of natural lighting, handheld cameras and generally very average production values. What the film offers is a sense of spirit, fun and an intriguing cast that obviously worked for rather small paychecks.

First, Josh gets a clothes makeover from Jm. J Bullock, who clearly relishes the chance to be onscreen again and has a definite presence that is fun to watch. Then, he gets relationship advice from a variety of friends/therapist types including Judy Tenuta, Alexandra Paul and others.

Then, the dating begins...Among the 10 dates, we find the likes of David Faustino (Bud from "Married With Children") and a host of others. Of course, none of these 10 work out but the ending is both refreshing and well written.

I always am a bit challenged when watching gay/lesbian films...not because they are gay/lesbian films, but because so often I find myself feeling like "this is not a gay/lesbian film...this is a love story or a drama or a social commentary."

While this film is in no way an award-winning film, and there are definitely no prize performances here it is an enjoyable film...it is a film that touches on issues that impact everyone...NOT just the gay/lesbian community. Stronger performances from a few of the "attitudes," a bit higher production value and a bit of script editing and this film would have entered the "C" range. Even at a C-, I'd say it's worth a view.

© Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic