This rather harrowing narrative about an extended black family in the 8os’ & 90’s in semi rural Mississippi was an inspired choice for the opening movie of ‘O’ Cinema, Miami’s newest edgy Art House Theater. A deeply disturbing debut film from writer/director Tina Mabry, which is even more disturbing on reflection when I discovered after viewing that the story is totally autobiographical.
It follows three children struggling to grow up in households where a parent is trying to make ends meet on the meager pay of a low-skilled job, and the obstacles that exasperate their daily lives. There’s addiction, violence and abuse and denial about it all, which leads to such despair that blights the children’s lives despite the early hope that, unlike their parents, they would rise above it all. One of them actually does, and she is the bright hope that gives a much-needed glimpse of optimism to this sad picture.
As dark and depressing as the story is, its still rather compelling viewing due to an amazing ensemble of talented actors who make this a powerfully gripping experience.
As part of the Programming Committee of MGLFF in 2009 I (we) thought it unsuitable for our particular audience and we never showed it. It went on to win 2 major Awards at other Gay & Lesbian Festivals, so maybe I (we) was wrong. Wearing no hats but my own this time, I found this very disquieting film emotionally draining by all the issues it confronts, but I am extremely glad I did watch it again.
If our new indie ‘O” Cinema gives a home to stunning wee movies like this, then maybe they will have a chance to reach the audiences that they so deserve.
Labels: 2009, dramatized real-life, gay
