Stillman's Portrait

In this 15-minute film, Stillman paints portraits. He loses inspiration for a centerpiece in his upcoming exhibition in the big city. His boyfriend suggests he return to his hometown to be inspired by the great self-portrait Stillman remembers painting after his mom died.

After 7 years he returns home. At first his dad doesn't recognize his own son. They have lunch. Dad asks if he has a girlfriend. Dad says, go ahead look for whatever painting in question. Finally he finds it in his dad's bedroom.

It's not clear if Stillman completed the purchase of the 28-year-old restored boat he played in as a boy. The small boat is named Vera, which means Faith or Truth.

On the dock looking out to sea, his mom's favorite spot, the boat smacking against the pier, the father sounds like he understands his son is gay. To be sure, Stillman says the three words a father never wants to hear -- Dad I'm gay. The father is in shock. Again they become strangers to each other.

Stillman returns to his true home with his boyfriend. With new inspiration, a renewed Vera, Stillman starts painting his masterpiece for the exhibit.