Lilting

Writer and director Hong Khaou’s feature film “Lilting” is simple, tender, and touching. Reviewing it is an exercise in restraint: There is a temptation to laud its beauty with waving arms and voluptuous terms. The story is simple with very human complications and unexpectedly real sparks of humor amid loss, grief, and frustration. This well-composed story is solidly human.

Richard (Ben Whishaw) and Kai (Andrew Leung) are boyfriends who live in London. Kai longs to come out to his mother Junn (Pei-pei Cheng), who he placed in a retirement home until he and Richard can find a larger flat to have her live with them. Kai has not told her he is gay. Suddenly, Kai is removed and Richard goes to Junn to try and connect. Junn expresses enough resentment and iciness that it appears she is jealous of Richard’s relationship with her son and the attention he took from her. Moms always know at some level.

The obstacles are believable in scale and difficulty, and none of the film’s progress relies on cinematic convenience. First a translator is needed, as Junn speaks no English. Then there is the minefield of Richard explaining his feelings as he navigates what Junn knows, suspects — or denies — and what he should tell her. Richard is often tempted to unload on her, but reveres Kai too much to risk destroying any chance for a connection.

Actor Andrew Leung’s character Kai is ever-present in the film, seamlessly interacting with Junn and Richard. Khaou’s vision and Leung’s performance bring lightness and understanding to the deep affection by those who love him.

Cheng delivers a believable performance as an elder woman struggling as she feels control slipping from her grasp. Richard bears a great deal of her frustration, yet a part of her realizes he is her last connection to her son.

Ben Whishaw adds another strong performance to his resume that includes “Perfume,” “Bright Star,” and “I’m Not There.” He’s a convincing actor who fully inhabits characters. The closer the camera draws and the more hushed the dialogue, the more riveting his performance.

The word “lilting” indicates gentle movement, and it’s an apt title for this film that wraps its arms around viewers and speaks softly. l

“Lilting” will play exclusively at Landmark Theaters. landmarktheatres.com