Keep the Lights On 2012

In 1998, Erik, portrayed by Thure Lindhardt, is a Danish artist residing in the vibrant city of New York. He has a serendipitous encounter with Paul, played by Zachary Booth, through a phone sex hot-line, where their undeniable attraction quickly leads to an intimate liaison. Erik later hangs out with Russ, who seems more focused on showcasing his physique than engaging in anything romantic. In a heartfelt conversation, Erik reveals to Paul about his difficult past with his ex-boyfriend, Paolo, who was HIV-positive, expressing how being with Paul makes him feel joy again. Erik confides in his friend Claire, portrayed by Julianne Nicholson, emphasizing his newfound happiness with Paul in contrast to his previous relationship. However, Paul, who has been hiding his drug use, asks Erik to keep this a secret after introducing him to substances. During a visit to an art gallery, Erik encourages Paul to introduce him to his ex-girlfriend, creating a tangle of emotions. Away from the city, a phone call brings Erik the news that he is HIV-negative, lifting a weight off his shoulders. Paul surprises Erik with a birthday party, enhancing their budding romance.

Fast forward to 2000, Paul witnesses Erik chatting with another man, leading to a confrontation filled with tension. Despite their argument, they reconcile. However, Paul’s mysterious disappearance during a dinner with friends raises questions for Erik. While working on a documentary, Erik feels isolated and surprisingly finds himself connected to Paul on a phone sex line, which disturbs him deeply. Back in the city, after their usual ups and downs, Erik comes home to find Paul unconscious. This alarming scene leads to Paul checking into rehab, where he blames Erik for ruining his life. Meanwhile, Erik finds a fleeting connection with a painter named Igor.

By 2003, following Paul’s rehab, Erik is optimistic about their future, but when he discovers Paul has not been home, worry seeps in. Erik receives a call from Paul, inviting him to his hotel, where Paul’s erratic behavior becomes apparent. Despite Erik’s attempts to bring Paul back to reality, Paul resists and even hires a male prostitute in Erik’s presence, causing further strain. Erik finds temporary solace with Russ again, sharing drugs and possibly crossing other boundaries.

In 2006, their paths cross once more at a diner, where both seem to have progressed since their last encounter. Paul accepts Erik’s invitation to stay over, yet avoids intimacy before sleeping. During a countryside retreat, Erik seeks clarity on their relationship, but Paul’s anger flares. He gives Erik an ultimatum—commit to moving in together or they part ways. After much contemplation, Erik decides they should move in but later has a change of heart, rushing to inform Paul of his decision. Walking with Paul to his job, Erik professes his enduring love, to which Paul responds with skepticism, yet they share a warm embrace, leaving Erik to ponder their tumultuous journey together.