Ira Sachs' "The Man I Love" is the Most Beautiful Tragedy of 2026
The best kinds of films are those that make the audience think about the real world. In the particularly contentious environment we live in, escapism is becoming less and less of a viable option. Luckily, the globe has no shortage of filmmakers interested in reminding their audience of where we're going and where we've been. One of those filmmakers is American director, Ira Sachs whose new feature, The Man I Love is easily one of the most beautiful, emotional, and heartbreaking films of the past decade that will leave you in tatters.
The Man I Love is the new drama feature from filmmaker, Ira Sachs. Taking place in the late 80's the story follows Jimmy George, a New York City performance artist living with AIDS and his attempt to take on one last great role before he inevitably loses his battle with the disease. The film not only examines his career but his relationships with his immediate family, friends, and his longterm partner, Dennis. Further drama is added when Jimmy begins a hot and heavy affair with his new neighbor, Vincent. The film is led by Rami Malek and also features the talents of Matt Sturridge, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Rebecca Hall, and Luther Ford.
The Man I Love made its world premiere in May at Cannes and has been traveling on the festival circuit ever since; screening at AFI Fest last week in downtown Hollywood. As a frequent film festival-goer who has seen over 150 releases from 2026, I can say with confidence that Ira Sachs' new film is one of the finest of the year. And it's for more reasons than I can possibly articulate, nevertheless I will try.
The disease aspect of the script adds stakes and a ticking clock, but this is not a film about AIDS, this is a film about love. There are no overly elaborate sets or explosive scenes in order to keep the audience focused on the dynamics between characters. Overall, it is a very quiet film, but that in no way means it's boring. Production designer, Tommy Love creates an environment that is still interesting to look at despite being humble. There's a clear intentional use of color throughout that is impossible to ignore. It is plain to see how much individual thought and effort was put into every shot.
Being a script that relies so heavily on interpersonal relationships, the acting is extremely important, and as a director, Ira Sachs was able to extract the best possible performances from every member of his cast. Newcomer, Luther Ford gives a sympathetic and relatable performance as Vincent. He's someone you seldom think is in the right, but if anything were to happen to him, you'd be shattered. Matt Sturridge and Rebecca Hall's characters act as incredibly effective foils to each other: one optimistic that Jimmy may overcome his disease, and the other fully accepting that his partner is going to die and there's nothing he can do about it. Sturridge really shines in the film's third act, watching his humanity peak through while desperately trying to remain stoic will damn near break your heart.
Despite an all-around incredible cast, the crown jewel of The Man I Love is easily Rami Malek as Jimmy George; giving the best performance of his career despite already being an Oscar-winner. He plays Jimmy with this magnetic physicality that's genuinely hard to put into words. Every time he's off-screen audiences will find themselves eagerly waiting for his return. Malek completely disappears into this role like no other I've seen.
Despite only spending 95 minutes with these characters, it feels like we know them in a deep, intimate way. We see their vices and virtues in tandem, nobody is entirely saint or sinner. While it would be easy to label this film as "about AIDS" that would be a gross underselling, as this is a story about love and how it morphs, evolves, and perseveres in the face of certain death. In terms of visuals, tone, performances, and emotional resonance, The Man I Love is the true definition of beautiful filmmaking.
