Summer 85
Whatever your entertainment needs, we’ve got you (and hopefully your mind) back with Queerty’s weekly ‘Culture Club’ column featuring some of the highlights from new releases, streaming shows, classics to. review and what to drink while you watch.
The thrill: summer 85
French gay author François Ozon returns with this new erotic thriller about first love and first sorrow. A boat accident causes teenagers Alex and David (Félix Lefebvre and Benjamin Voisin) to meet by chance and feel an instant attraction. Six weeks later, Alex gets arrested and remembers the steamy relationship that led to disaster. But all is not what it seems …
Summer 85 ranks among Ozon’s best films, both in the way it merges genres and the way it layers its characters. This film will spark a heated debate among viewers about how they judge Alex and David and the nature of their relationship. However, as much of the movie unfolds through Alex’s memories, we wonder if the story unfolded as he says it does. Ozon also makes us wonder what the couple really felt for each other, the meeting point between affection and obsession. Anchored by two magnetic and sexually charged performances by Lefebvre and Voisin, Summer 85 viewers will reflect as much on their own past relationships as on the one central to the film.
In theaters July 18. Also playing Frameline45 and the Provincetown Film Festival online through June 27.
The icon: Rita Moreno: just a girl who decided to go
One of our favorite Sundance 2021 movies opens wide this week, bringing with it a candid and loving look at a legendary performer and gay icon. Just a girl who decided to go chronicles Moreno’s beginnings in Puerto Rico, his emigration to the United States, and his varied career that has earned him an Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Grammy. Featuring interviews with Moreno herself, George Chakiris and Terrence McNally, and longtime fans Lin-Manuel Miranda, Eva Longoria-Parker and Gloria Estefan, the film illustrates the far-reaching effect of the actress’ work. .
Unlike other more respectful docs, Moreno doesn’t hold back here, sharing candid memories of her Hollywood sexual assault experience, struggling to find work as a Latin actress, her marriage, and, possibly. in the film’s more candid subplot, details of a steamy relationship with Marlon Brando. At 89, Moreno’s petite figure still radiates the charisma and vitality of stars. Viewers will walk away from this film feeling that Moreno hasn’t just lived life; it won he.
In theaters June 18. Also available as part of the Provincetown Film Festival online until June 27.
The Quick Hit: The Catfish Killer
Co-directors Seth Harrington and Gil Hizon are releasing this horror short film this week. Catfish killer follows a group of gay men on a camping trip to a cabin in the woods. When the boys decide to do their best to attract a few additional company, things take a dark turn when their potential connection accuses them of cat fishing and comes to the cabin for revenge.
At 12 minutes, Catfish killer does not go beyond his welcome and manages to make a few big laughs during his execution. It is also helpful for Harrington to bring in skilled actors to transport the material, including The inhabitants of the East veterinarians Chris Salvatore and Stephen Guarino. As directors, Hizon & Harrington show potential and passion. We can’t wait to see them direct a feature film in the future. For now, however, they know how to give horror, camp, and camping fans a good time.
Streams on Here Media.
The Spin: Bright Light, Bright Light remixes Megan Vice against TT The Artist “Feeling Good”
Queerty Bright Light nominee Bright Light returns this week with his remix of the Megan Vice and TT The Artist collaboration, “Feeling Good”. Despite the very Complicated title and credits here, Mr. Light, Ms. Vice, and The Artist once again show their talent for creating dance-ready pop. With a rhythm and melody that channeled CeCe Peniston from the 90s and Cheryl Lynn from the 70s, “Feeling Good” gets us in the mood to hit the dance floor or take a cruise (in any form) in a convertible on a sunny day. Press for the song describes it as a ‘summer bop’, although for our money we think it’s suitable for a good time all year round.
Feed on YouTube.
The jam: Maggie Szabo “Rebuild”
Speaking of dance-ready pop beats, Canadian singer Maggie Szabo released her latest video this week, a boogie-ready power ballad perfect to celebrate Pride Month. “Rebuild” pays homage to love, strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The accompanying video, produced by transgender director Alexa Best, follows the biography of Dr Kathryn Davis (who also appears in the video), a woman who underwent a gender transition at age 70. It’s a beautiful celebration of queer identity and progress, accompanied by powerful Szabo voices that are perfect for pride.
Feed on YouTube.
The Munch: Gumdrops CBD
This week we’re doing something a little different here at Culture Club when it comes to our recommended alcohol. Instead of a cocktail, we suggest giving CBD gumballs a snack (where legal, of course). Suitable for watching a movie at home or at the cinema, or for relaxing while hanging out with friends, this candy can help ensure a very silly time.
