Henry Gamble's Birthday Party 2016

Henry Gamble, a closeted teenager and an influential member of his church’s youth group, finds himself in a whirlwind of emotions leading up to his 17th birthday. The film opens with a candid moment between Henry and his friend Gabe, where they engage in a discussion about a girl invited to the party while exploring their own curiosity. As they drift off to sleep, the anticipation for the next day looms large.

On the morning of the celebration, Henry joins his family for breakfast, setting the stage for a dynamic birthday party filled with guests, most of whom share the same religious congregation. Among the attendees are some of Henry’s school friends, creating a mix of familiarity and tension. A seemingly innocent arrival of wine from one of the adults stirs initial disapproval, yet soon many of the guests succumb to the festivities, oscillating between tipsy and outright drunk.

The family dynamics reveal much about the characters involved. Bob Gamble, Henry’s father and the church’s head preacher, grapples with the strain in his marriage to Kat, the matriarch, who is actively involved in church leadership. Their relationship is put to the test as Kat confesses her affair and her desire for a temporary separation. She encourages Bob to use this brief distance to bond with Henry and to come to terms with their son’s sexuality.

Meanwhile, Autumn, the eldest Gamble child, navigates her own challenges at a Christian college, wrestling with the implications of losing her virginity to her ex-boyfriend. Though their decision felt mutual at the time, it spirals her into a crisis of faith, but ultimately, by the end of the film, she finds solace and reconciles with him.

Among the other party guests is Ricky, a troubled member of the congregation eager to reclaim his role as a camp chaperone. However, his past indiscretions, which led to uncomfortable situations during last year’s camp, make church leaders hesitant. Feeling the palpable discomfort of those around him, Ricky retreats to the bathroom, succumbing to a nervous breakdown where he resorts to self-harm, necessitating an urgent trip to the hospital with the aid of his mother and fellow guests.

Lastly, the tension between Henry and Logan comes to a head throughout the evening—inundated by unreciprocated feelings and emotional walls. While initially cold, Henry’s isolation gives way to a poignant moment; he ultimately invites Logan to stay the night. As they lie together, Henry confronts his previous indifference and extends an olive branch, leading to an intimate moment where he tentatively asks if they could share a kiss. Logan’s affirmative response marks a significant step in both their journeys of self-discovery and acceptance.