I was lucky enough to snag tickets to the screening of Tom Ford’s debut film ‘A Single Man’ at the Toronto International Film festival. The story of an English professor whose partner dies suddenly, the film is a gorgeously shot story that uses restraint in the script balanced by visual cues. Set in the early 60s, Tom Ford’s legendary attention to detail is evident - from the props to the beautiful clothing he designed for the film. He consulted on the adaptation of the screenplay, directed and produced the film.

At times, the symbolism can be a bit heavy-handed. Ford uses colour saturation to highlight innocence and beauty (over) and drive home grief, despair and doubt (under). Clocks also feature prominently. Ford cast the film as he would a runway show - the actors are gorgeous, surreal other-worldly creatures. There is bit of pretty-overload happening here. At times it feels as if the film is really one long Gucci ad.

But not to worry. Ford’s first choice for the lead role was Colin Firth and thank God for that. Firth’s expressive face is not wasted - Ford lovingly films every nuance, each subtle gesture. Firth can communicate so much with a simple eyebrow cock or slight grimace. The beauty of the film is in its simplicity and it could have been easily over-acted. Firth’s performance blossoms in what he chooses to give away and what he holds back.

A Single Man is a great film. If you are a Tom Ford fan, you absolutely must see it. His aesthetic sensibilities are ideal for film, combined with his innate storytelling ability. I can’t wait to see which story he will tackle next. The trailer is below. Also, check out pictures from the cast Q&A on Flickr.