Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Box Hill: A Hopeful Take on Gay Love and Consent

2/7/2026

37 4

Summary

Story summary

Adam Mars-Jones published Box Hill: A Story of Low Self-Esteem in 2020, centering on Colin Smith, an 18-year-old in a dominant-submissive relationship with Ray, a motorcyclist in his late 20s.
Set in the 1970s, the work explores consent and the challenges of being gay.
The film adaptation retains some tragic elements but aims for a more hopeful conclusion, highlighting Colin's potential for devotion when paired with a deserving partner.

1 of 1

Story summary

Adam Mars-Jones published Box Hill: A Story of Low Self-Esteem in 2020, centering on Colin Smith, an 18-year-old in a dominant-submissive relationship with Ray, a motorcyclist in his late 20s.
Set in the 1970s, the work explores consent and the challenges of being gay.
The film adaptation retains some tragic elements but aims for a more hopeful conclusion, highlighting Colin's potential for devotion when paired with a deserving partner.