ACOMSDave

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Archives for July 2025

Escapade – Movie Review

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EscapadeThis short gay film, Escapade,  is a raw, unflinching portrayal of teenage rebellion and the desperate search for freedom—a stark mirror to the suffocating realities of home life. At just under 22 minutes, it delivers a punch of realism that hits hard from the opening scene on the bridge, capturing the turbulent emotions of 17-year-olds Quint and Thijmen as they clash with their oppressive parents.

Gijs Blom, known for his role in *Jojens*, shines as both writer and actor, bringing a visceral authenticity to the story. His portrayal of Thijmen, alongside Robin Boissevain’s Quint, exposes the quiet rage and yearning for autonomy that define adolescence. The film’s visual and auditory textures—especially during the bridge and partying scenes—are tactile and immersive, immersing viewers in a gritty, honest world where every shot is meticulously crafted.

The narrative underscores how seemingly similar neighbouring homes conceal vastly different worlds: Thijmen’s overprotective family and Robin’s abusive, uncaring father. Both characters embody the universal struggle of young people seeking independence amid oppressive circumstances. The film’s construction, with its clever shot placement and pervasive filming style, captures the intensity and vulnerability of these moments with extraordinary clarity.

With a compelling mix of realism and artistry, this film encapsulates what it truly means to be a teen—conflicted, rebellious, and desperately seeking identity. It’s a gripping, honest look at youth’s fight for freedom and the scars left behind. A must-watch for anyone interested in the raw truths of teen life and the silent battles fought behind closed doors.

Duration : 21mn 48s

Gijs Blom Thijmen
Robin Boissevain Quint
Daniel Boissevain Quint apja
Marloes van den Heuvel Thijmen anyja
Bart Blom Thijmen apja

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Protest and Pride: Unearthing Northern Ireland’s Hidden Queer Past

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Protest and Pride - Dr Tom Hulme

Sex, Love, and Everyday Life: A History of Northern Ireland before Gay Liberation

 

Protest and Pride: Unearthing Northern Ireland’s Hidden Queer Past – In the shadowed corners of history, beneath the layers of repression and silence, lies a vibrant, defiant queer world in Northern Ireland—long before the activists, the marches, and the pride banners. It’s a story of clandestine courage, of characters who dared to love and live openly in a society obsessed with shame and suppression.Protest & Pride

From the ‘female husband’ working Belfast’s docks in the 1880s—an early rebel defying gender norms—to the first lesbian activist of the 1960s, Belfast’s queer history pulses with resilience. Scandals like the Victorian male brothel discovered in the docks, or the circulation of Jazz Age novels that celebrated forbidden desires, reveal a city alive with subversion. These stories challenge the lie that Northern Ireland’s past was only about conflict and repression. It was also about secret societies of lovers, clandestine meetings in alleyways, and whispered confidences over the counter in bookshops selling forbidden titles.

The police raids and newspaper revelations in the mid-20th century sought to crush these whispers, but they only amplified the underground roar. Men who cruised Queen Square or the entries, who exchanged glances and love letters—many paid dearly for their truth. Prison cells, family shame, exile—yet their stories persisted, woven into the fabric of Belfast’s hidden history.

But this history is not just one of shame and suffering. Diaries and letters from men like David Robinson and the sailors who brought queer culture ashore reveal a city brimming with life, desire, and daring. Women like Margaret Dobbs and Rose Young defied conventions, their “romantic friendships” a silent protest against the suffocating silence enforced by society.

NIGRA - Protest and PrideToday, we must remember these stories—not as relics of the past, but as proof of an enduring struggle. We demand acknowledgement of those who dared to love in secret, who fought against the walls of repression—who, in their silence, roared resistance. The sodomy campaign was never just about criminality; it was about stripping us of our humanity, our right to love freely.

Let this be the call to awaken our collective memory. To protest, to say boldly: the queer past of Northern Ireland was never just darkness. It was a spark—waiting, still waiting—to ignite the future of pride and liberation.

 

This was a wonderful, enlightening and entertaining talk by Dr Tom Holme, Queen’s University, held in the Linen Hall Library on Tuesday, 23rd July 2025 at 1 PM. Tom at the lectern 

 

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Lobster Trap [2023] – Movie Review

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Lobster Trap  “Lobster Trap” (2023) is a compelling short drama that plunges into the turbulent world of youth and rebellion. Directed by Charlie Statires, the film masterfully captures the raw emotion and vulnerability of Chance, a troubled teenager navigating a chaotic home life. After being expelled from his trailer, where he shares a strained existence with his alcoholic brother, Wesley’s impulsive night leads him to an unexpected escape—finding himself aboard a lobster boat in the open sea.

The film’s brevity belies its depth, delivering a poignant exploration of seeking freedom amidst adversity. Statires expertly portrays Chance’s joLobster Trapurney, earning the film the Best Performance award at the New Hampshire Film Festival. The ocean setting serves as a powerful backdrop for themes of isolation, liberation, and self-discovery, resonating long after the credits roll. “Lobster Trap” is a visually evocative anLobster Trapd emotionally honest piece that reminds us of the resilience and yearning for escape that exists within troubled youth. An impressive short that leaves a lasting impression.

 

This is not a gay movie, but the main actor, Chance, played by Charlie Statires, is attractive to look at, and is on screen for most of the nearly 20 minute long movie.

FILM CREDITS Written and Directed by: Charlie Statires

Produced by: Eric Charles Jorgenson and Versa Manos and Charlie Statires

Cinematography by: Nicola DiTomaso Edited by: Kenny Yates

Composed by: Lubomir Rzepka

CAST CHANCE: Charlie Statires

LOBSTERMAN: Eric Charles Jorgenson

JOHNNY: Braxton Hale

RUBY: Gabriella Santinelli

THOMAS: John Potvin

EDNA: Sylvia Hummel

CHRISTINE: Lisa Miller

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Why the Three Laws of Robotics Fall Short in the Age of AI

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Why the Three Laws of Robotics Fall Short in the Age of AI

You’ve probably heard of Isaac Asimov’s famous Three Laws of Robotics—a set of rules designed to keep robots safe and morally aligned with humans. They go like this:

1. A robot may not harm a human or, by inaction, allow a human to come to harm.
2. A robot must obey human commands unless they conflict with the first law.
3. A robot must protect its existence as long as it doesn’t conflict with the first two laws.

Sounds straightforward, right? Well, as inspiring as these laws are in sci-fi stories, they don’t hold up well when it comes to real-world AI. Here’s why:

 

 

 

1. Vagueness and Ambiguity

The laws are intentionally broad and lack clear definitions. What exactly counts as “harm” to a human? Does emotional distress harm? Financial loss? The vagueness makes it tough for AI to interpret and act appropriately. Without the subtlety of human understanding, AI might misjudge situations—leading to unintended or even dangerous outcomes.

2. The Impossible Scope

AI systems are faced with unpredictable, complex environments. These laws assume AI can foresee every scenario—something that’s simply impossible. For instance, protecting a human might conflict with obeying a command, or an AI might encounter a situation where self-preservation is at odds with other priorities. It’s unrealistic to expect a set of rules to cover every possible twist.

3. Ethical Dilemmas and Conflicting Priorities

Life isn’t black and white. Often, protecting one person might harm another, or following a command could cause harm. The Three Laws don’t offer guidance on resolving such moral grey areas. Without a nuanced decision-making process, AI can’t handle the messy realities humans navigate daily.

4. Lack of Moral and Emotional Depth

AI doesn’t possess consciousness or feelings. It can process data, but it can’t truly understand concepts like suffering, obedience, or self-preservation in a moral sense. So, following the laws literally might not translate into ethically sound actions—they’re just rules, not moral judgments.

5. Vulnerability to Manipulation

Bad actors could exploit the simplicity of these laws. For example, an attacker might trick an AI into prioritising obedience over safety or manipulate its interpretation of “harm.” This makes the laws potentially dangerous if not carefully managed.

6. Outdated in the Face of Advanced AI

Modern AI systems are constantly learning and evolving through complex algorithms. Embedding rigid rules like the Three Laws can stifle their flexibility and ability to adapt. As AI grows smarter, static rules become a hindrance rather than a help.

Final Thoughts

While the Three Laws of Robotics are a captivating storytelling device and a useful starting point for ethical debate, they fall short when applied to real AI systems. The world demands more sophisticated, context-aware frameworks—ones that acknowledge ambiguity, moral complexity, and the evolving nature of AI. Moving forward, researchers and policymakers need to develop smarter, more adaptable approaches to ensure AI acts safely and ethically in our society.

 

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Love in the tent

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Love in the tentLove in Small Moments: Comparing Camping, Confession, and Comfort in ‘In the Tent’ and the YouTube Story

Camping trips often serve as more than just outdoor adventures; they become intimate stages where vulnerability, connection, and unspoken feelings unfold. Two stories—David Rees’s ‘In the Tent’ and the YouTube story ‘He Said the Floor Was Too Cold—Climbed Into My Sleeping Bag Without Asking’—capture these tender moments with nuance, humour, and depth. While they differ in tone and format, both narratives highlight how simple, everyday gestures can reveal profound truths about love and friendship.

 

 

The Setting of Intimacy: Campgrounds as Confessionals

Both stories are rooted in the natural, unpretentious setting of camping—a space that strips away societal masks and reveals raw human emotion. In *In the Tent*, Rees recounts his personal experiences sharing a tent with friends, exploring how physical proximity fosters emotional closeness through humour and reflection. His anecdotes remind us that sometimes, the most meaningful connections are formed in mundane, shared moments.

Similarly, the YouTube story centres on a camping trip that becomes a stage for unspoken feelings. The night when Jaime, feeling the cold, climbs into Alex’s sleeping bag without asking becomes a pivotal moment—an act that signifies a desire for closeness, comfort, and perhaps something more. The act of sharing warmth transcends necessity; it becomes an act of vulnerability and affection.

The Power of Small Gestures

A core theme in both stories is the importance of subtle, often innocent, gestures. In ‘In the Tent’, Rees reflects on moments like sharing a space during a snowstorm or late-night conversations where physical closeness hints at deeper feelings. These small acts—cuddling against a lawn mower or huddling in a shed—are portrayed as tender symbols of trust and intimacy.

The YouTube story similarly emphasises the significance of deliberate acts. Jaime’s decision to enter Alex’s tent and his straightforward reason—”the floor is too cold”—belies a more meaningful intent. The act of climbing into the sleeping bag, pressing bodies together, and sharing warmth becomes an intimate confession. Jaime’s gentle question, “Is this okay?” underscores vulnerability, blurring the line between friendship and love.

Emotional Courage: Facing Fear and Hope

Both narratives explore the bravery required to express or accept love. In *In the Tent*, Rees recounts moments of hesitation and the gradual realisation of feelings, emphasising that vulnerability is essential to authentic connection. His stories highlight the tension between the fear of risking friendship and the desire for honesty.

The YouTube story vividly captures this courage. Alex’s internal monologue reveals overthinking and hesitation, questioning whether he is reading too much into Jaime’s gestures. When Jaime confesses, “I like you, not just as a friend,” it marks a significant step—an act of mutual bravery and hope for something more. Their shared kiss and subsequent conversations symbolise a turning point—an acknowledgement of feelings long held beneath the surface.

Tone and Style: Reflection Versus Narrative

Rees’s *In the Tent* employs a reflective, often humorous tone, blending personal anecdotes with philosophical musings about friendship and intimacy. His storytelling invites readers to see the tent as a metaphor for human closeness, emphasising that vulnerability often resides in everyday moments.

The YouTube story adopts a visceral, cinematic style, drawing the audience into Alex’s internal world through detailed narration and vivid dialogue. It captures the nervous anticipation and tenderness of that night in the sleeping bag, emphasising the immediacy of emotion.

The Significance of Small Moments

Both stories demonstrate that love and connection often hinge on small, seemingly insignificant moments—shared glances, accidental touches, whispered confessions. They challenge the idea that romance must be grand or dramatic; instead, they celebrate quiet, authentic expressions of affection that unfold naturally.

In ‘In the Tent’, Rees’s stories remind us that physical proximity can be a space where friendship deepens into something more meaningful. Likewise, the YouTube story shows that even a simple act like climbing into a sleeping bag can reveal unspoken feelings and forge a new understanding.

Conclusion: Love Found in Silence and Simplicity

Ultimately, both ‘In the Tent’ and the YouTube story underscore a vital truth: love and connection often thrive in small moments—those gentle acts, shared silences, and honest confessions that happen away from the spotlight. They reveal that vulnerability isn’t about grand gestures but about embracing the quiet, ordinary moments that truly matter.

Whether through humour, reflection, or visceral storytelling, these narratives affirm that the deepest bonds are built in trust, proximity, and honesty—sometimes in the simplest of settings: a tent, a sleeping bag, or a quiet campsite under the stars.

 

My one regret today is that David Rees’ publications are mainly out of print.  Yes, they are of a time, but they are beautifully crafted and written.  A time past.

 

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What of the LGBTQ community on British society since the 1800s?

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LGBTQ CommunityThe LGBTQ community and individuals have significantly shaped British society since the 1800s, influencing social attitudes, legal reforms, culture, and rights movements.

In the 19th century, LGBTQ identities were largely marginalised and criminalised, with laws like the Labouchere Amendment of 1885 criminalising male homosexual acts. Despite heavy repression, underground communities and discreet networks persisted, laying the groundwork for future activism.

The early 20th century witnessed the emergence of pioneering figures who challenged societal norms and fought for recognition. The 1950s and 1960s marked a turning point with the formation of advocacy groups, such as the Homosexual Law Reform Society, which campaigned for decriminalisation.

In 1967, the Sexual Offences Act decriminalised private male homosexual acts in England and Wales, a landmark victory that catalysed further legal and social change. The subsequent decades witnessed the gradual removal of discriminatory laws, the rise of LGBTQ visibility in media and culture, and the fight for equal rights, culminating in the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2014.

Culturally, LGBTQ individuals have enriched British arts, literature, and entertainment, challenging stereotypes and promoting diversity. Prominent figures, such as Alan Turing, a pioneering computer scientist and World War II codebreaker, and later activists, have become symbols of resilience and progress.

Overall, the LGBTQ community’s perseverance and activism have played a crucial role in transforming British society into a more inclusive and accepting nation, fostering ongoing debates about rights, identity, and equality.

 

Summary Table

Area Impact
Law & Policy Decriminalisation, anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, repeal of Section 28
Culture & Arts Influential writers, artists, musicians, and designers, increased representation
Social Attitudes Greater acceptance, visibility, and understanding of LGBTQ identities
Activism Grassroots movements, Pride events, and intersectional advocacy
Community Building Creation of support networks and safe spaces

The LGBTQ community and individuals have fundamentally shaped modern British society, advancing legal rights, enriching culture, and driving social change from the 1800s to the present146.

  1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_LGBTQ_history_in_the_British_Isles
  2. https://phm.org.uk/blogposts/a-british-export-that-has-defined-lgbt-history-past-and-present/
  3. https://thefrontline.org.uk/blog-post/key-moments-of-visibility-in-lgbtq-history-in-the-uk/
  4. https://armycadets.com/features/influential-lgbtq-figures-in-uk-history/
  5. https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/55276399
  6. https://www.youngcitizens.org/blog/history-of-lgbtq-rights-in-the-uk/
  7. https://www.youngfabians.org.uk/the_forgotten_side_of_british_queer_history_month
  8. https://www.history.org.uk/publications/resource/11056/what-have-historians-been-arguing-about-modern
  9. Belfast Pride 2023

Orange Cheesecake – a gay movie review

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Orange CheesecakeThe movie is “Orange Cheesecake,” a short film that came out in 2025. It’s a gay short film directed by Sam Liddell, with Harry Jenkins serving as the producer. The story centers around Joe, who gets invited to dinner, and as the night progresses, tensions start to rise as his father’s true intentions come to light. On IMDb, some user reviews describe it as “sweet, sad, and awkward,” capturing the film’s emotional complexity.

 

 

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The Alarming Erosion of Civil Liberties in the UK

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The Alarming Erosion of Civil Liberties in the UK

AI Generated Picture for ‘The Alarming Erosion of Civil Liberties in the UK’

Civil Liberties in the UK

Over the past 150 years, there has been an alarming erosion of the  UK’s civil rights landscape has experienced both significant expansions and notable erosions. From the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, Britain made major strides, including extending voting rights (1918, 1928, 1969), recognizing trade unions, establishing the welfare state, passing Race Relations Acts (1965, 1968, 1976), and decriminalizing homosexuality in 1967. These developments marked a period of progressive growth in civil liberties and social protections.

However, since the 1980s, a pattern of erosion has emerged, particularly driven by security concerns and government policies. Counter-terrorism legislation such as the Prevention of Terrorism Acts from 1974 onward, the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001, and the Terrorism Act 2006 expanded detention powers and surveillance capabilities. The 2016 Investigatory Powers Act, often called the “Snooper’s Charter,” further increased mass surveillance.

Time Moves On

More recently, the 2020s have seen significant restrictions on civil rights. The Police, Crime, Sentencing and CoCivil Liberties and Big Brotherurts Act 2022 and Public Order Act 2023 have curtailed protest rights, allowing police to impose restrictions based on noise and stop-and-search without suspicion. Immigration policies like the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 and the Rwanda deportation scheme have undermined asylum protections. Additionally, data privacy has been weakened, and measures limiting judicial review and threatening withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights signal a troubling decline in legal protections.

Overall, while Britain historically expanded civil rights, recent decades have seen systematic rollbacks, often justified by security and sovereignty concerns, disproportionately affecting minorities, protesters, and refugees.

 

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Standing Strong Together: How UK Trade Unions Lead the Fight for LGBTQI+ Rights

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UK Trade UnionsThe journey of UK trade unions working alongside the LGBTQI+ community is a testament to how social change happens when grassroots activism meets institutional support. What began as cautious gestures has blossomed into a powerful alliance that’s reshaping workplaces and challenging outdated attitudes about gender and sexuality.

From Margins to Mainstream: A Brief History

Looking back, the path wasn’t always straightforward. In the 70s and early 80s, many unions reflected the conservative norms of their time, often viewing LGBTQI+ issues as peripheral or even a distraction from class solidarity. But that changed dramatically during the 1984-85 miners’ strike. Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners (LGSM) raised funds and offered support to striking miners’ families, proving that solidarity can cross divides. That unlikely alliance showed that shared struggles against oppression unite different marginalised groups. The story was later brought to life in the film *Pride*, but its true impact was much deeper—it challenged perceptions, laid groundwork for ongoing activism, and proved that fighting for equality benefits everyone.

Leading the Charge Today

Fast forward, and UK trade unions are now champions of LGBTQI+ rights, both inside workplaces and in broader political campaigns. Major unions like UNISON, GMB, Unite, and the National Education Union have established dedicated LGBTQI+ committees, adopted comprehensive equality policies, and made protections for sexual orientation and gender identity core to their bargaining.

UNISON, the largest union, has been especially active. Since the 90s, their LGBT+ committee has fought for inclusive pensions, anti-discrimination policies, and gender-neutral language. Their annual LGBT+ conference serves as a hub for sharing best practices and shaping strategies.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) also prioritizes LGBTQI+ issues, with its LGBT+ Committee coordinating efforts, providing training, and lobbying for legislative change at home and abroad.

Transforming Workplaces Through Unity

Unions aren’t just setting policies—they’re changing workplace cultures. Through collective bargaining, they’ve won benefits like same-sex partner rights, inclusive parental leave, and anti-harassment measures. But they go beyond policies: building LGBTQI+ networks, promoting fair hiring, and running training to combat unconscious bias. Many unions actively support Pride events, celebrating diversity and demonstrating their commitment to equality.

These efforts help normalise LGBTQI+ issues, bridging cultural divides and showing that fighting for equality and economic justice go hand in hand.

Advocacy in Action: Politics and Law

Unions harness their political influence to push for legal protections and social acceptance. They played a vital role in passing the Equality Act 2010, which strengthened protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. They’ve supported campaigns for marriage equality, civil partnerships, and hate crime laws.

When it comes to transgender rights, unions navigate complex internal debates, balancing inclusion with concerns from some members. Most have developed nuanced policies that respect everyone’s rights while fostering respectful dialogue. Internationally, UK unions support global efforts to oppose discriminatory laws and stand with activists fighting for LGBTQI+ rights worldwide.

Facing Challenges and Embracing Complexity

Progress isn’t without hurdles. Some sectors or regions still hold traditional views, and issues around transgender rights can spark internal disagreements. Unions approach these sensitively—promoting education, understanding, and dialogue—while upholding dignity and respect for all.

Linking Justice and Identity

Today’s union movement recognises that fighting discrimination isn’t just about individual rights—it’s about economic justice. LGBTQI+ workers facing harassment or exclusion suffer tangible economic harms—missed opportunities, job insecurity, stress. Addressing these issues strengthens unions’ core mission: protecting workers and promoting fairness. This integrated approach also attracts younger, diverse members, making unions more relevant and dynamic.

Looking Ahead: New Frontiers in Equality

Unions are evolving to meet future challenges: tackling discrimination faced by transgender workers, ensuring inclusion in emerging sectors, and safeguarding remote or hybrid workplaces. They’re also focusing on intersectionality—acknowledging that many workers face multiple layers of discrimination based on race, disability, age, and more.

International solidarity remains key. UK unions continue supporting global campaigns and influencing international policies to advance LGBTQI+ rights everywhere.

A Model for Progressive Change

The partnership between UK trade unions and the LGBTQI+ community exemplifies how labour organisations can grow to address today’s complex social issues. By embedding LGBTQI+ rights into their core mission, unions have strengthened their moral authority and practical relevance.

Both movements benefit—unions expand their relevance and membership, while LGBTQI+ advocacy gains powerful institutional allies. As society progresses, the union movement’s unwavering support and commitment to equality serve as a guiding example, showing that collective action, solidarity, and persistent effort can bring about lasting change far beyond the workplace.

Ultimately, the story of UK trade unions and LGBTQI+ rights is one of shared struggles, mutual support, and hope for a more inclusive future. When these movements stand together, they not only transform workplaces—they help build a society where everyone can be their authentic self.

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