In the heart of London’s queer scene, Jules, a drag queen played by Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, becomes a victim of a violent attack that leaves him shattered. Seeking revenge, Jules concocts a plan worthy of a Shakespearean tragedy. He seduces his hypermasculine assailant, Preston, and films their sexual encounter, planning to distribute it without his consent. “Femme”, an intense tragedy by Sam H. Freeman and Ng Choon Ping, explores the crushing effect of traditional perspectives of masculinity on two men’s lives.
The film premiered at the Berlinale film festival, captivating audiences with its moving human story and racy plot. As Freeman explained, “This is a film that is for queer audiences, but it’s also a film for all audiences. The queer is a label that we proudly attach to it, but it’s not all that it is.”
Through the relationship between Jules and Preston, “Femme” delves into the complexities of toxic masculinity and the repressed sexuality that often accompanies it. As Jules seeks revenge, he turns the tables on his attacker, challenging traditional gender norms and the archetype of the avenging anti-hero.
For George MacKay, who plays the role of Preston, the film offered a chance to explore the themes of masculinity and its shifting definitions in society. “Preston was a very sort of fertile ground to explore those themes of masculinity,” he said.
In a world where revenge porn and gender-based violence are all too common, “Femme” presents a powerful and timely message. It is a modern retelling of a classic story, exploring the complexities of human nature and the fluidity of gender and sexuality.