Jonathan (Kevin Isola) has always believed in Santa, even despite his exasperated sister Marie's (Aida Turturro, The Sopranos) "lies" to the contrary. Now in his early twenties working in a New York gay bookstore, Jonathan... more » knows that despite a string of failed affairs, he can, with a little help from Santa, still find that perfect man! He thinks he's found his present from Santa when he meets new co-worker Toby (David Burtka), a cute southerner and winner of the local "wet underwear" championship. But if Toby really is his gift from Santa, why is he exploding like a party animal all over the New York scene and why has he brought his older childhood sweetheart Keith (Stephen Mailer) along with him? As the shopping days count down to Christmas, Jobathan discovers that Santa doesn't always deliver what sexy gay boys want, he delivers what they deserve.« less
"This film is a gem! I saw it two years ago at the Dallas Gay & Lesbian Film Festival and wondered if it would ever be available on DVD. It took awhile, but here it is. Kieran Turner (director) works wonders with a tiny budget, and the acting is first-rate. The film is set at Christmastime, so add this one to your collection for the holidays."
A Perfect Holiday Treat!
Larry J. Commons | 11/14/2002
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The Movie:Kieran Turner has written and directed a wonderful gay holiday film with "24 Nights". Not only is it cute, refreshing, touching and endearing it has also won numerous awards on the independent circuit.The story revolves around Jonathan (Kevin Isola-How the Grinch Stole Christmas), a twenty-something who works by day at a gay bookstore and harbors childhood memories of his lost parents and Santa Claus. In a cute opening sequence Jonathan reminisces about when he was younger and his mom telling him all about Santa and that if he is good Santa will bring him whatever he wants. Well, it's no the present and Jonathan writes dear ol' St. Nick and asks for the man of his dreams. His present arrives when an adorable young man named Toby (David Burtka) walks into the store and as the days of Christmas unfold so do Jonathan's trials and tribulations begin.The only fault I had with the film is the cinematography which has a slight "homemade" and cheap feel to it but I soon got engrossed with the story and the characters and that was quickly left by the wayside. Aida Turturro (Janice from the Sopranos) steals the scenes she is in and has some of the best comedic lines as she bickers with her mother-in-law (Mary-Louise Wilson). There are other funny moments, a poker card game played with old 45 records, an analogy of love with Pepe Le Pew and even some touching, heartfelt moments that got me a bit teary-eyed.Overall this is a charming, sweet movie that would make a perfect gift no matter what the holiday was! The DVD includes a director's commentary, cast and crew bios, four trailers, and the rules to "45 Poker". It is presented in dolby digital widescreen 16:9. and runs 97 minutes."
This film really grows on you
M. FUSCO | NEW YORK, NY | 04/21/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This sweet and clever little film is a cinematic advent calendar, ticking off the days till Christmas. Jonathan (perfectly played by Kevin Isola) is a quirky young gay man who still believes Santa Claus can bring him a perfect man, with a southern accent. His sister (also perfectly, and hilariously, played by Aida Turturro) has always been into bursting his bubble, but has raised him since their parents' untimely deaths. When Toby, a young southerner, comes looking for a job in the gay bookstore where Jonathan works, Jonathan thinks Santa has delivered his gift, and blindly pursues him. But the road to happiness is not necessarily smooth, and therein lies the loveliness, and fun, of this little gem. Jonathan's family -- including his brother-in-law, Stan (an underwear model, but "not for any of the good brands"), and Stan's mother (a sharp-tongued drinker) -- is combative but, as Keith (Toby's erstwhile boyfriend, lovingly played by Stephen Mailer) says, "They kind of grow on you." This film proves what a wonderful, heart-warming, and intelligent story can be produced on a very low budget. It is accompanied by a fun group of Christmas tunes in the background. Merry Christmas."
A WONDERFUL DELIGHTFUL FILM!
R.J. | Phoenix, MD USA | 01/09/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I disagree with ANYONE that the film is shot quote "Amateurish"...that's pure rubish! THAT IS WHAT MAKES THIS SOOOO APPEALING! NO high tech nonsense! BRIALLANTLY done and well acted by all the characters. Everyone has something that adds a delightful charming appeal to this fun, feel good movie. (Like a nice hot cup of cocoa). I loved it... PERIOD! Makes you really believe that there is a Santa Claus! :) Check it out and you decide!"
24 Nights is worthy checkin out....
J. Monte | San Francisco,CA | 06/04/2002
(3 out of 5 stars)
"I picked this title up at a San Francisco Video Rental Store not knowing what to expect. I read the synopsis on the box taking a chance 50/50 if its going to be good or not. Im glad that I did take it. Jonathan played by Kevin Isola just wants one thing for christmas, the perfect boyfriend. Jonathan in his early nearing mid 20's lives at home with his older sister played perfectly by Aida Tururro (The Sopranos). Jonathan does come off bitter and acts childish at home and finding the ulltimate BF will remedy his existence in life. Jonathan works at a popular gay bookstore and talking with fellow co-worker James played by Mark Bateman, Mr. Right(Toby played by David Burtka) or what Jonathan thinks is waltzes right in asking for an application for employment at the bookstore. But here's the dent in Jonathan's perfect BF,he's already taken. Toby introduces to the gang at the bookstore his BF Keith played by Steven Mailer. Jonathan wants to end it all at this sudden discovery but he hatches plan B and tries to steal Toby away every which way he can. Along the way, Jonathan's deceit leads him into a whole new direction on what to do cause someone else has fallen for Jonathan. Should he go with Mr. Right (Toby) or Mr. Perfect who has suddenly fallen into his lap?"