African-American Gay Comedy/Drama

I really like the possibilities of film. Somehow late night as I write about the impact of theory onto marginal communities and produce a thesis, and then it gets shelved. This then becomes useful and accessible to those who know how to use a library.

BUT film has the power to capture visually experiencewhat we can only narrate. This film was created to capture the tensions and obstacles for the African-American Gay experience. Then the human rights campaign decided to sponsor this film as their form of initiating discussion. I dont see my thesis at this point being picked up by the immigrant rights movement any time soon.

Who wants to make a movie with me? I can see it now, Queer People of Color and how they make sense of the world. We would touch presence, home, lovers, life and spirituality.

For now, catch this film for free here in SF...
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San Francisco
Friday, June 23, 2006
San Francisco International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival

Screening:
10:30 p.m., Castro Theater, 429 Castro Street
Purchase tickets for screening
www.frameline.org/festival/30th

Pre-screening event:
8-9:30 p.m., Human Rights Campaign Store,
600 Castro Street
RSVP for pre-screening event at: www.hrc.org/dirtylaundry/sf

About the film:
Writer/Director Maurice Jamal has crafted a modern-day prodigal son story with a twist. Dirty Laundry is a dramedy that follows a traditional small-town southern family, dealing with the secrets that are uncovered when the long-lost son (Rockmond Dunbar) suddenly returns home from a seemingly perfect life in New York. In the center of the conflict is the mother (Loretta Devine), who's own story holds as much drama and secrecy as her son's. The film is rich with southern flavor due to an amazingly witty and original script. Jamal has found a way to take characters and elements that are familiar like an old friend, and give them a unique and unusual twist. Even through the laughs, the crisp direction and acting lead us to emotional discoveries that are both passionate and touchingly real.

Ms. Devine gives a career-defining performance by going against type and presenting a mother that will make you shake in your shoes. Jenifer Lewis, plays a role that was tailor made for her as the nosy churchgoing aunt. Both Terri J. Vaughn as a supportive sister Jackie and Maurice Jamal as the hard-edged brother are standouts among a stellar cast. The all-star cast is rounded out by comedienne Sommore ("Abby"), gospel legend Dr. Bobby Jones ("Pastor James"), Alec Mapa and supermodel Veronica Webb.

Its one hilarious moment after the next, in this clash of cultures and identity. The film amazingly uses comedy to underscore drama, tugging at both your funny bone and heartstrings. More than a comedy, drama or family film, Dirty Laundry represents a new aesthetic in cinema by walking the line between these genres and also hitting strong social notes. This is a Black family story that has never been seen on screen.