Horror, comedy, drama, or a documentary, this year’s lineup had them all
Illustration by Chloe Latour.
The Victoria Film Festival returned this month for its 30th anniversary with, as usual, a fantastic lineup. This year’s event included a variety of LGBTQ+ gems, so if you’re in the mood for a queer movie here are three picks to keep your eye on — and two you can still catch during the festival.
The Judgment
The Victoria Film Fest describes The Judgement as a “thrilling queer horror” story. When Mo and his boyfriend Hisham visit family in Egypt, the two are forced to hide their relationship in order to protect themselves. Terrified of being discovered, Mo and Hisham must fight internal and external homophobia to save their relationship and themselves.
Jess Plus None
If you’re looking for a lighter film, this one might be for you. Jess is dreading her best friend’s off-the-grid wedding. Despite her reservations toward the groom, no cell service, her ex-girlfriend in attendance, and being surrounded by perfect couples, Jess is trying her best to be a supportive friend and make it through the wedding in one piece. It is a comedy after all, and nothing can go right.
Close to You
Elliot Page stars as Sam, who has decided to finally visit his hometown for the first time since his transition four years ago. While visiting, he runs into Katharine, his high school best friend/crush, and that crush is still very much active. During Sam’s stay, the two grapple with their own personal definitions of home, family, and happiness.
Leilani’s Fortune
This documentary follows the career of Ayo Leilani, a queer Ethiopian-Eritrean artist known as Witch Prophet. After years of struggling as an independent artist to produce her album, The Gateway Experience, she is finally getting recognition for her work. Leilani’s Fortune follows the album’s creative process and reception.
Leilani’s Fortune is playing at Blue Bridge Theatre, Feb. 9 at 8:30 p.m.
The Floating Man
In this “intimate self-portrait,” Michael V. Smith explores his previous work while meditating on his personal relationship with gender. Weaving together the clips of his search for Joni Mitchell on the Sunshine Coast, past performances, interviews, road trips, video poems, and performance art, Smith examines his body of work and his ever changing relationship to art.
The Floating Man is playing at The Vic Theatre, Feb. 10 at 2:45 p.m.
