For our first edition, we're focusing on Netflix. 

“Handsome Devil”  Dir. John McPhillips (2017)

When it comes to LGBTQ themed films, no other formula is as accessible and relatable than the coming-of-age story. These stories allow us to join a character as they they live, or often relive, experiences unique to their growth from youth to adulthood. 

Seeing that there is a fair share of these films, one can grow a little tired of this formula as they don’t typically bring anything new other than the already known tropes we’re used to seeing in straight coming-of-age stories.  

Transcending the well-worn routine is “Handsome Devil” - a film that charts the familiar story arc, but leaves the cliches behind. Set in an Irish boarding school, two unlikely friends take homophobia head on by not only challenging their peers but the adult establishment of their school as well. 

“Mater” Dir. Pablo D'Alo Abba (2017) 

It is difficult to obtain an accurate count of same-sex parent families because many lesbians and gay men are not open about their sexual orientation due to fears of discrimination, such as loss of employment, loss of child custody, and antigay violence. 

There is not a “usual” gay family. Case in point is the story told in “Mater”. Wanting to further their relationship, Lena and Celeste, a lesbian couple, are willing wants to to go extreme lengths to having a baby. The unorthodox method proves to be risky for all involved. 

“Muerte en Buenos Aires”  Dir. Natalia Meta (2014)

A devoted family man and police detective sets himself on solving the murder of a socialite with a secret. The case forces the detective and his rookie partner to to delve into the gay nightlife of Buenos Aires.  

Tensions rise between both agents when their ambitions and desires collide. Each seek their own glory in closing the case, but what lingers beneath in the end? 

This film is a stylish and suspenseful neo-noir drama that blows away one’s expectations and leaves you wanting more. 

“The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson” Dir. David France (2017)

This insightful documentary is well worth watching if you are interested in the origins of the gay rights movement, and the important role trans rights activists played in it. Masha P Johnson was one of these activists: energetic, generous, but also living under perilous conditions in the New York of 1970s and 80s. 

In an attempt to shed light on her tragic and unresolved death, Victoria Cruz investigates police records and interviews many of Johnson’s contemporaries. One of the most note worthy is Sylvia Riviera, the tireless co-founder of Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries.

*For more insight on Marsha P. Johnson and the STAR movement we recommend Art & Queer Culture by Catherine Lord & Richard Meyer (Phaidon 2019)

“All in my family” Dir. Hao Wu (2019)

This short viewing shows us the pitfalls and triumphs of coming out in a family bent on traditions and keeping things covered up. What’s it like being gay, Chinese and a gay parent? To get some answers, Hao Wu, documents and shares his personal story with us.