Every few years, a film appears that portrays the relationships among a group of friends while capturing the exact spirit of a specific time (Diner, The Return of the Secaucus Seven, and The Big Chill, to name a few). The tradition continues with The Broken Hearts Club (then-titled The Broken Hearts League).

In this debut feature by Greg Berlanti, the twist is that all the characters are gay. In the palm­ shaded oasis of West Hollywood, we meet Dennis, a promising photographer. As he pre­ pares to celebrate his 28th birthday, he laments, "I can't decide if my friends are the best or worst thing that ever happened to me." The gang includes Benji, the punkish innocent with a penchant for gym bodies; Cole, the charismatic actor who accidentally keeps stealing everybody's guy; Patrick, the cynical quipster; and Taylor, resident drama queen. And then there's Jack, providing sage advice and steady work, the beloved patriarch whose restaurant is a haven for the mall. lf any of the characters sound familiar, they are intended to. Berlanti has risen to the chal­lenge of representing a specific lifestyle in all of its vicissitudes.