I love recommending gay movies for the simple reason I don't think there are enough good ones out there and I don't understand why. Maybe it is my naivete, but I figure if we watch the good ones more good ones will be made.
Punch was filmed in New Zealand. It was written and directed by Welby Ings in 2022 and was his directorial debut. The movie starred Tim Roth an English actor who has been around since the 1980's producing and acting.
The story revolves around Jim a high school student and boxer, who is being coached by his alcoholic father, Tim Roth. Soon a relationship develops between Jim and another student, Whetu, an openly gay student. While Whetu has always been out despite the prejudices running wild in this small town, Jim is on his road to self discovery. The two teenagers start a relationship causing not only them to reexamine their lives,but also many of the people in the town.
One of the aspects of the movie I enjoyed most was how Whetu who always knew he did not fit in, was able to accept himself so much better than Jim. Growing up I wish I could have been more similar to Whetu and just not given a fuck. Not sure if this makes sense but when you have nothing to lose it is sometimes easier to be brave. Although Jim was the strong boxer it was Whetu who gave him the courage to be himself.
Give it a go.