Sebastian

Synopsis

Max is a 25-year-old writer, living in London and paying his dues working at a literary magazine. On the cusp of finding success in the local lit scene, by night Max moonlights as a sex worker in order to research his debut novel. What begins as a few furtive meetings soon becomes a secret nocturnal life as his alter ego 'Sebastian.' In a 'fearless' (Screen Daily) lead performance from newcomer Ruraridh Mollica, Max?s emotions cycle through ecstasy, shame, and exhilarating liberation; far from simply informing his autobiographical fiction, Max?s experiences as Sebastian awaken a deeper sense of self, unshackled from societal expectations - all the while threatening his carefully-earned status in the literary community. This assured sophomore feature by writer-director Mikko Makela, a Sundance 2024 selection, explores the transgressive power of queer sexuality and the transformative impact that can result from embracing a new identity.