We’re rolling out the pink carpet at The Chicago History Museum … surfing style. Look out for hotties in wetsuits to get you in the mood for our opening night film about surfer boys in love. Do the Watusi to beach party music while enjoying hors d’oeuvres provided by Whole Foods, as well as an open bar sponsored by Stella Artois and Ketel One’s extravagant martini ice bar.

This event is sponsored by Chicago History Museum and Out at CHM

A heartfelt debut feature about first love, Jonah Markowitz’s romantic surfer tale, proclaimed by many as the best gay film of the year, is awash with sweet first kisses, masculine tenderness, and compelling drama.

Having given up an art school scholarship to hold his dysfunctional family together, young Zach (played by soulful dreamboat Trevor Wright) settles for a dead-end job at a local diner and an on-again/off-again relationship with his sexually frustrated girlfriend. He also cares for his neglected nephew, leaving just enough spare time for his two passions—art and surfing. One day, while picking up his surfboard from “Richie Rich” pal Gabe’s house, Zach runs into Gabe’s older brother, Shaun (Brad Rowe from Billy’s Hollywood Screen Kiss), a gay Hollywood writer who has recently returned home to San Pedro. As Shaun joins Zach on an impromptu trip to the beach, the two are gradually swept away by more than just the killer waves, and their developing attraction catches Zach off guard. What’s a sexually confused dude to do?

The alt-rock soundtrack adds depth to the unpretentious script, and the stellar ocean scenes are nearly as gorgeous as the cast. Wright and Rowe mesh with natural, seamless chemistry, while Tina Holmes (best known as Maggie on Six Feet Under) stands out as Zach’s selfish, boozehound sister. The skilled performances enhance writer/director Markowitz’s assured, award-winning movie.

A classic coming-of-age story with a refreshing edge, Shelter is not just about sexy surfers riding the waves (and each other). It’s about the grin-while-you’re-driving moment you realize the exhilarating rush of new love is more than just infatuation.

Actor Brad Rowe will be attending a post-film Q&A.

ADMISSION: Film and Gala: $45 / $40 for members   Film Only: $15 / $12 for members