sunDAY MAY 20
Transforming Family
7:15pm
TBLB Cinema 1
7:30pm
TBLB Cinema 2
Let My People Go!
Transplanetarium
Mikael Buch
In Canada, trans people have become more visible in the past two decades. Nevertheless, we still struggle for basic human rights and acceptance from our governments, communities and families. Fortunately, we are seeing an emergence of more trans filmmakers and video artists.
France 2011 88 min For those who hate films with formulas, Mikael Buch’s bubbly comedy might provide the antidote they crave—it’s impossible to predict where the plot is going next. The opening shots of an adorable gay couple living in rustic Finnish bliss are so candy-coloured they seem like a dream. But when mail carrier Ruben (played with a winning and somewhat hysterical feyness by Nicolas Maury) tries to force an unwanted package onto one of the village’s inhabitants, the twists start coming. Next thing you know, Ruben is headed back to Paris to spend time with his family, a boisterous Jewish brood with a dry-cleaning empire, presided over by matriarch Rachel, who regularly forgets that her son is gay as she encourages him to marry a nice Jewish girl. Spanish actress Carmen Maura certainly nails the role of overbearing mom, but it’s no coincidence Buch cast the star of Pedro Almodóvar’s camp classic, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, an obvious influence here. Buch’s zaniness, however, has a delightfully contemporary flavour all its own. Despite throwing a lecherous lawyer, oddball parents, a shocked rabbi, an insensitive goy and some hilarious jail scenes into the mix, the director doesn’t let things descend into complete anarchy. You’ll be amazed how he is able to pull it all together in the end.
Where We Were Not Part 1: Black Mask (Máscara Negra) Feeling Reserved, Alexus’ Story Rene Brasil Jessica MacCormack Canada 2011 6 min
This story illuminates the strength and courage women possess, as well as the oppressive conditions that define them. Narcissus
Coral Short Canada 2011 2 min
A trans man notices himself in a mirror, becomes transfixed and starts flirting, culminating in a passionate kiss. Self-reflection becomes self-acceptance. What’s in a Name?
Ben Kullerd and Caitlin Lundin USA 2010 10 min
French and Finnish with English subtitles
Four transgender residents of Austin, Texas share intimate stories about their gender transitions and chosen names.
This program is rated 14A.
Something Blue Rebekah Fortune UK 2011 17 min
While a family prepares for their eldest daughter’s wedding, one family member struggles to claim his true identity. Carmen Rupe
Lucy Hayes Australia 2010 11 min
A 74-year-old Aussie drag queen looks back on her life.
36
Brazil 2011 15 min
At Carnival in Rio, you can be exactly who you want, without anyone knowing who you are. Portuguese with English subtitles James Dean
Lucy Asten Elliott Scotland 2011 7 min
A family outing takes an unexpected turn when young Alex is forced to share her secret. Transforming FAMILY Rémy Huberdeau Canada 2012 10 min
A conversation-starter about the experiences of trans parents and their kids. The Hawker
Elisha Lim and Coco Riot Canada 2012 2 min
“When I was a kid in Singapore, the same person served me chicken rice every day. I didn’t know if that person was a man or a woman, and that was awesome.” Roommates
Caitlin Parker USA 2011 8 min
Pablo faces a dilemma of unrequited love for someone who doesn’t suspect his feelings— his roommate.
Toronto LGBT FIlm Festival may 17-27, 2012