As the sun blazes high, summer 2023 brings a sizzling lineup of movies that promise to captivate audiences around the globe. Amid the fiery skies and laughter-filled ensembles, two films stand out for their significant LGBTQ narratives. “Kokomo City,” a breathtaking and unapologetic documentary, delves into the lives of transgender sex workers in Atlanta and New York City. The film, directed by D. Smith, offers an intimate and unflinching look into their struggles and resilience. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated “Barbie,” directed by the acclaimed Greta Gerwig, stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as they embark on a journey of self-discovery, leaving Barbie Land behind, with their escapades resonating strongly with queer audiences. As July unfolds, these films promise to make an impact beyond the silver screen.
TV Triumphs and LGBTQ Representation
While July marks a famously tough month for TV due to Emmy submissions, some bold series are set to premiere. Among them, the beloved and famously snubbed “What We Do in the Shadows” triumphantly returns for its fifth season. This comedy series, centered around a coven of chaotic vampires on Staten Island, continues to captivate viewers with its nonstop laughs and diverse characters, including the endearing Guillermo. With queer-coded romance and situational comedy moments, the show resonates deeply with its LGBTQ audience. The TV drought might persist, but it’s the perfect excuse to seek refuge in air-conditioned theaters and bask in the delight of cinematic tales that celebrate inclusivity and diversity.
Heartwarming Ensemble Comedy
“Joy Ride” presents a refreshing twist on the raucous ensemble comedy genre, boasting an all-star cast of Asian American creators and actors. Written and directed by Adele Lim, the film centers on Audrey (Ashley Park), a lawyer, and her friends as they embark on a business trip to China in search of Audrey’s birth mother. Alongside an opportunity for self-discovery, the film also embraces LGBTQ representation, with Stephanie Hsu, Sherry Cola, and Sabrina Wu bringing queer, bi, and nonbinary performances, respectively. “Joy Ride” promises to be a delightful and humorous journey of friendship and romance, capturing hearts in the summer breeze.
Aflame with Passion: “Afire” and “Theater Camp”
German director Christian Petzold sets the screen ablaze with “Afire,” a captivating film starring Paula Beer and Thomas Schubert. The movie revolves around Leon, a young author whose writing retreat becomes a cauldron of emotions when he encounters the alluring Nadja. Amidst the backdrop of a forest fire, “Afire” explores romance and tragedy in a beautifully poignant manner. On the other hand, “Theater Camp” offers a laugh-out-loud celebration of amateur musical theater at a run-down summer camp. Led by a cross-generational ensemble of comedic actors, the film also features LGBTQ representation, with Noah Galvin shining as Glenn. As both films ignite the passions of the audience, they are set to be summer sensations.
Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie”: A Splash of Nostalgia and Queer Aesthetics
While “Little Women” director Greta Gerwig has always made headlines with her projects, her latest venture, “Barbie,” takes the spotlight for its compelling LGBTQ appeal. Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, the film follows Barbie’s journey of self-discovery as she navigates the challenges of perfection and identity in the real world. Packed with campy recreations of one-off Mattel creations, the film’s unconventional aesthetic thrills queer audiences. Gerwig’s imaginative touch and the inclusion of Hollywood’s biggest names promise a delightfully nostalgic experience with a contemporary queer twist.
July’s Summer Cinematic Extravaganza
With a plethora of LGBTQ-centric films and TV shows gracing the screens, July 2023 proves to be an exceptional month for cinema. From gripping documentaries like “Kokomo City” to hilarious ensemble comedies like “Joy Ride,” there’s no shortage of captivating stories that celebrate the diversity of the human experience. As the temperatures soar, these films offer an ideal escape into worlds filled with laughter, romance, and heartwarming moments that resonate with LGBTQ audiences worldwide.