From NetFlix:

This stream-of-consciousness, 1960s-era drama centers on a day in the life of George Falconer (Colin Firth, in an Oscar-nominated role), an English-born, Los Angeles college professor reeling from the recent death of his lover of 16 years. Fashion designer Tom Ford makes his directoral debut with this luminous film, which is based on Christopher Isherwood’s novel. Julianne Moore, Matthew Goode, Ginnifer Goodwin, Lee Pace and Nicholas Hoult co-star.

Sadly quiet and understated day in the life of a man grieving for his dead lover of 16 years. Mixed in with a stream of memories is his careful (almost comical in one scene) planning for his suicide at day’s end.

Toward the end one of his students (probably gay) both provides a ray of light amid the darkness and tries to prevent the suicide. Forgive my scepticism, but isn’t that student a bit too mature for his age ? However his character does provide a sweetness to counter George’s despairing outlook.

Such a movie says that finally gay-themed films have matured to a stage where they can avoid cliches such as death from AIDS (the lover dies in a car accident), being closeted, effeminate men, etc. Critics seem to think that Colin Firth has made his mark in this production.

I will not even hint at the film’s perfect end.