‘Boy Culture’ tends to deepen upon reflection

G. Allan Brocka’s “Boy Culture” is that rarity, a movie that seems much better and more credible after a second viewing.

Adapted by Brocka and Philip Pierce from Matthew Rettenmund’s novel, it stars Derek Magyar as X, who was seduced and then rejected at the age of 12 by his childhood best friend. Now 25, he is a proud, cynical, in-demand Seattle hustler. He shares an upscale apartment with affable Andrew (Darryl Stephens) and giddy 18-year-old Joey (Jonathon Trent). X is paradoxically puritanical, critical of the shallower shoals of gay life. Then he acquires a new client, Gregory (Patrick Bauchau), an elegant and wealthy 79-year-old recluse who pays him for conversation, not sex. Gregory’s mesmeric charm and sophistication nudge X into realizing that the adolescent trauma has left him terrified of being hurt again.

At times a little callow around the edges, “Boy Culture” upon reflection (having screened at the last Outfest) displays considerable insight. It is buoyed by some incisive acting and writing and anchored by a standout portrayal from Bauchau, a versatile veteran of international cinema.

“Boy Culture.” MPAA rating: Unrated. Strong language, adult situations. Running time: 1 hour, 28 minutes. Exclusively at the Sunset 5, 8000 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 848-3500.