Clay Farmers (1988) is a rare gay indie film that predates Brokeback Mountain by nearly two decades but never received the recognition it deserved. Directed by A.P. Gonzalez and written by Michael Moore, this low-budget drama blends rural life, queer identity, and societal prejudice in a way that feels both raw and tragically timeless.
A Quiet but Impactful Story
The film follows Mike (Nick Rempel) and Dan (Todd Fraser), two farmhands navigating their daily lives in a small California town. Mike is content with the simple life, while Dan longs for the freedom of the city. Their chemistry is palpable, and while their relationship is never explicitly labeled, their mutual attraction is clear.
Their bond is complicated by Gary (Liam McGrath), a troubled boy from a neighboring farm who finds solace in their companionship. Living with an abusive father and an unsupportive stepfamily, Gary sees Mike and Dan as an escape from his reality. However, a misunderstanding involving a swimming trip quickly escalates into dangerous territory when the town’s homophobic paranoia turns against the young men.
The performances in Clay Farmers vary in quality, but Todd Fraser stands out as Dan, the more restless and emotionally guarded of the two leads. Nick Rempel as Mike brings an earnest charm, and Liam McGrath as Gary adds a layer of vulnerability that makes his character’s fate all the more heartbreaking.
Despite some moments of wooden acting—especially from the supporting cast—the film manages to capture a real sense of tension and longing. The chemistry between the leads is subtle but effective, and their growing affection never feels forced.
A Small-Town Nightmare
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its depiction of small-town hostility. The town’s reaction to Dan and Mike isn’t driven by any clear evidence, but rather by underlying fears and prejudice. This makes the conflict feel all the more real—the idea that, in an insular community, rumor and paranoia are enough to destroy lives.
The climax, where the two men face the town’s judgment, is particularly gut-wrenching. Unlike mainstream Hollywood films that might have softened the ending, Clay Farmers remains true to its indie roots, offering no easy resolutions.
A Forgotten Gay Western
Although Clay Farmers never found mainstream success, it remains a historically significant film. It was recently restored for its 30th anniversary in partnership with UCLA and Outfest’s Legacy Project, bringing renewed attention to its quiet but powerful storytelling.
For those interested in early queer cinema, Clay Farmers is an essential watch. While it may not have the polish of later films, its rawness and emotional honesty make it a compelling and deeply moving experience.