by Mark Doherty

Let’s face it -- the word "buzz" has been so overused by critics in the past decade, it’s almost lost its meaning. How many more times can we read "This film’s getting a ton of pre-release buzz," or "Buzz is spreading on this flick!" without our eyes glazing over?

If you’ve been hearing buzz about the film "Shelter" and are trying to figure out what to make of it, trust me on this -- believe the hype. "Shelter" has legitimately earned the buzz surrounding it -- it’s arguably one of the best gay films to come around in years. There’s also a lot more to it than just the "hot gay surfer movie" tag it’s getting -- although truth be told, it is pretty hot.

The film stars Trevor Wright as Zach, a talented artist-in-the-making who forgoes art school to help his live-in sister take care of her 5-year-old son (the dad is gone). He’s also an avid surfer and hits the waves regularly with his friend Gabe. After meeting Gabe’s older brother Shaun ("Billy’s Hollywood Screen Kiss" star Brad Rowe) one day, feelings develop -- and things change dramatically in straight Zach’s life . . .

The film opens this weekend in limited release in major cities and will make its cable premiere on Here! Friday, April 18.

To coincide with the release, you can check out "Shelter" reviews, interviews, trailers, surfer boys and more right here right now . . .