A very enjoyable film with some fantastic acting from Laura Ainsworth, Jonny Labey and Daniel Brocklebank in particular.  The relationship between Jules and David is devastating and through that connection the film explores internalised homophobia, family and trust, love, courage and safe sex.  There were some sections which held less impact - the necessity to show the development of Sam and David's relationship in montage for example means something is lost in terms of connecting with the depth of that relationship, at least initially.  All in all, however, Soft Lad is a well-acted, satisfying, gritty in places humorous in others story about life, love, friendship and family.