Lean on Me

Warren Sanders (Johnny Moon) has had a crush on his best friend's older brother, Theo Grant (Pierce Paris) for decades. When Warren's best friend, Gregory Grant, passes unexpectedly, Warren and Theo lean on each other while their true feelings come to the surface. Jeffrey (Dante Colle) is a closeted man who is full of fears about his identity. Though he's a successful doctor, he struggles with his inner voice telling him there's something wrong with him and his proclivities. It takes Lance (Dakota Payne), a handsome new confidante, to help Jeffrey on his first steps to self-acceptance.

Directed by Walden Woods, Bree Mills, Lean on Me leans on a strong ensemble — Johnny Moon, Pierce Paris, Dante Colle — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2023.