Sebastian

Struggling as a young aspiring writer in London, Max forges a new identity for himself in the form of a ravenous sex worker: Sebastian. He meets men via an escort platform and uses his experiences as inspiration for his writing. As his double life becomes increasingly risky, he must ask himself whether his escapades are merely a means to obtaining authentic stories, or whether there are bigger things at stake. With his second feature film, Finnish director Mikko Mäkelä (A Moment in the Reeds, Pink Screens 2018) isn't afraid to explore the complicated nuances of sex work, by opting, not for its sensationalism, but its tenderness. The film, which was partially shot in Brussels, is a thoughtful, compelling investigation of the importance of queer identities and how they shape us.