As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, the SigEp Chicago Society extends warm wishes to all its members and their families. As you enjoy the holiday break, we wanted to share a few few items that have come across our radar reccently.
Nuovo Olimpo
Nuovo Olimpo is an Italian romantic drama film set in the turbulent backdrop of late-1970s Rome. The film intricately weaves the tale of Pietro and Enea, two 25-year-old men whose lives intertwine in a moment of destiny. Their paths cross on a film set: Enea, deeply immersed in his role as an aspiring film director, and Pietro, a medical student, drawn to the set out of curiosity. Premiered at the Rome Film Festival and released on Netflix, Nuovo Olimpo offers viewers not just a romance, but also a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the enduring power of human connection against the odds.
Last Call: When a Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York
Last Call: When a Serial Killer Stalked Queer New York is a powerful and poignant HBO Original four-part documentary miniseries that delves into a dark chapter of New York City's history. Based on Elon Green's book "Last Call: A True Story of Love, Lust, and Murder in Queer New York", the series focuses on the harrowing events of the early 1990s, a period marked by rising homophobia, hate crimes, and the intensifying AIDS crisis.
Le Paradis [The Lost Boys]
Le Paradis is a compelling drama that unfolds within the confines of a juvenile reform center, a setting where physical contact is strictly prohibited. Directed by Zeno Graton, the film tells the story of Joe and William, two young men who find themselves in a situation that challenges their understanding of freedom and love. As Joe prepares for his return to society, his encounter with William, the new arrival in the adjacent cell, sparks a profound change in his desires and aspirations.
Fellow Travelers
Fellow Travelers is a captivating Showtime miniseries that delves into the complexities of love, politics, and identity during a turbulent period in American history. Based on the novel by Thomas Mallon, the series is set against the backdrop of McCarthyism in the 1950s, a time marked by political paranoia and the Lavender Scare. The story centers on the decades-long, clandestine romance between two men, Hawk and Tim, portrayed by Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey. Hawk is depicted as a charismatic and ambitious individual, while Tim is more pious and idealistic. The series navigates through their volatile relationship, exploring themes of love and secrecy in an era when being openly homosexual was fraught with danger and stigma.
Serving in Secret: Love, Country, and Don't Ask, Don't Tell
Serving in Secret: Love, Country, and Don't Ask, Don't Tell is a compelling MSNBC Films documentary that explores the complex history of LGBTQ+ discrimination in the U.S. military. The film traces the long-standing challenges and prejudices faced by gay service members, highlighting their fight for equality and acceptance. One of the central narratives of the documentary is the personal journey of a military couple striving for recognition and respect in an environment that was often hostile to their existence. The documentary sheds light on the harsh realities of serving under the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, which required LGBTQ+ service members to conceal their identity as a condition for serving in the military.
Little Richard: I Am Everything
Little Richard: I Am Everything is a dynamic and insightful documentary directed by Lisa Cortés, which delves into the life and career of the legendary musician Little Richard. This 2023 American documentary film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and was released by Magnolia Pictures, provides a vibrant and comprehensive portrait of one of rock's foundational figures. It celebrates the legacy of Richard Penniman, better known as Little Richard, highlighting his journey as a queer Black man from Macon, Georgia, and his groundbreaking influence on rock music.
All of Us Strangers
All of Us Strangers a romantic fantasy film, scheduled for release in the U.S. on December 22, is a poignant exploration of love, memory, and the passage of time. Directed by Andrew Haigh, the movie is loosely based on Taichi Yamada's 1987 novel "Strangers." The story unfolds in London, where the main character, Adam, portrayed by Andrew Scott, has a serendipitous encounter with a mysterious neighbor, Harry, played by Paul Mescal. This chance meeting disrupts the mundane flow of Adam's life and sparks a relationship that propels him into a journey of self-discovery and retrospection. The film's unique narrative structure and exploration of complex themes like grief, love, and the interplay of past and present make it a compelling watch for those who appreciate introspective and emotionally resonant storytelling.
Tips and recommendations for the cultural desk always welcome! Send us an email.