Josh O’Connor Excited to Meet Bonus Track Cast and Crew
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Bonus Track: A Queer Coming-of-age Romantic Comedy
In an exclusive interview with PinkNews, Director Julia Jackman and Samuel Paul Small, star of the queer coming-of-age romantic comedy film, “Bonus Track,” discuss the movie’s themes and the involvement of Josh O’Connor in its creation. Julia Jackman and Samuel Paul Small collaborated with O’Connor, an acclaimed actor renowned for his roles in queer cinema, who provided the underlying story for “Bonus Track” and made a brief cameo in the film.
The premise of Bonus Track
“Bonus Track” follows the relationship between George, a budding musician played by Joe Anders from “1917,” and new school student Max, son of a popstar portrayed by Samuel Paul Small from “So Awkward.” These Year-11 students’ relationship develops as they prepare for an end-of-year talent show.
Describing the film as a “gentle and modest addition” to the queer romantic comedy genre, Jackman makes clear that the story was based on the original idea by O’Connor. While he handed over the script to childhood friend Mike Gilbert, O’Connor remained invested in the film’s production and his short appearance was much appreciated by the team.
Samuel Paul Small (R) and Joe Anders in Bonus Track. (Image courtesy of Sky Cinema)
Meeting O’Connor
Jackman and Small have fond memories of working with O’Connor. Small humorously recalls O’Connor as a “mythical being” who wasn’t physically present on the set but felt like an influential part of the process. Their eventual meeting brought genuine moments of appreciation and camaraderie.
O’Connor’s Role in the Story
Aside from writing the script, O’Connor played an instrumental role ensuring the story portrayed LGBTQ+ relationships authentically. Engaging in open discussions about queer teenage experiences, O’Connor showed curiosity and enthusiasm to create a relatable story for the LGBTQ+ community.
The Chemistry On-Screen
One highlight of the film is the compelling chemistry between George and Max. Interestingly, this connection was as much a reality off-screen. Small candidly shares that his affection for co-star Anderson wasn’t an act. This sense of ‘kinship’ eased the portrayal of his character’s fascination with Anderson’s character, George.
Max (L) and George have to prepare for an end-of-term talent contest. (Image courtesy of Sky Cinema)
Importance of Positive Queer Representation
“Bonus Track” stands out in queer cinema for depicting a happy ending for the central queer relationship. This is not typical for many LGBTQ+ films that often veer towards tragedy. For Small and Jackman, it was crucial to showcase a positive narrative, to allow queer audiences to see themselves in feel-good moments typically reserved for heterosexual relations in romance and comedy genre.
Reception
The film was well-received at the London Film Festival with viewers expressing how it made them feel proud to be queer. Small recounts a touching interaction when someone at the festival thanked him for contributing to a film that validated their identity.
Personal Appeal
“Bonus Track” carries personal appeal for Jackman, not only for its embrace of LGBTQ+ themes but also its backdrop of the early 2000s, a period that resonates with her personal journey. Jackman believes that the film serves as a love letter to her younger self and will inspire others who may be on a similar journey.
“Bonus Track” officially premiered at BFI’s London Film Festival in October and is now available for streaming on Sky Cinema and NOW beginning June 1st.
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“Josh O’Connor Bonus Track film”
