Alternative Film Guide

Despite several contrived and underdeveloped dramatic situations, and a number of clunky camera setups, Luke Eberl’s mordant political drama Choose Connor is definitely worth a look. Eberl’s screenplay is appropriately cynical — or rather, truthful — when showcasing the machinations of politicians and their cronies, while Steven Webber delivers a flawless performance as a handsome, ambitious, and utterly ruthless U.S. congressman in the throes of an election campaign. As a plus, Alex Linz is quite remarkable as the senator’s Youth Campaign Spokesman.

Synopses from the 26th Los Angeles Gay & Lesbian Film Festival website.

THU 7/17 7:00pm
DGA 1

Documentary Centerpiece: A Jihad for Love
(USA, 2007, 81 mins)
In English, Arabic, Farsi, Urdu, Hindi with English subtitles
AFTER PARTY: Wildness at Silver Platter

Directed By: Parvez Sharma
SCR: Parvez Sharma

Six years ago Outfest screened a 20-minute work-in-progress of Parvez Sharma’s groundbreaking film about queer Muslims. Sharma masterfully turned that concept into A Jihad for Love, a breathtaking international phenomenon shot in twelve countries and nine languages.

At a time when Islam is under tremendous attack from within and without, the subjects of Sharma’s brave documentary speak openly about the challenges of being gay/lesbian and Muslim. They share their deeply personal struggles to reconcile a faith that is part of the fabric of who they are, with a faith that also rejects them for who they love. Each subject speaks with a unique voice, illustrating the depth and diversity of the international Muslim community.

Sharma and producer Sandi DuBowski (Outfest award-winner Trembling Before G-d) have created an enlightening film made within the Muslim community. A Jihad for Love not only explores the complex global intersections between Islam and homosexuality, but more importantly, it inspires us all to unite in the struggle for love.

THU 7/17 7:00pm
Fairfax 1

The Ode
(USA, 2007, 105 mins)
World Premiere

Directed By: Nilanjan Neil Lahiri
SCR: Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla & Akshat Verma

Based on actual events and the critically-acclaimed novel by Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla (Ode to Lata), The Ode spans two generations and intertwines the doomed but passionate love story of Parin and Shiraz with the tempestuous life of their gay son Ali who discovers that the past is always present no matter how far you run. Ali flees to Hollywood, away from his overprotective mother and memories of his father’s violent death. A successful banker by day, at night his life unravels in a blur of alcohol, drugs, and sex as he grapples with love, loss and ultimately, forgiveness.

THU 7/17 7:15pm
Fairfax 2

Wrangler: Anatomy of an Icon
(USA, 2008, 85 mins)
World Premiere

Directed By: Jeffrey Schwarz

Few people have had as wild and unpredictable a life as that of 1970s gay porn icon Jack Wrangler, a charismatic, dedicated performer who not only managed to transition from gay to straight porn while remaining openly gay, but continued to find success on Broadway following his retirement from the adult film world. Featuring appearances by Christine Ebersole, Bruce Vilanch, Chi Chi Larue, and host of other notables, Wrangler: Anatomy of an Icon is a playful and captivating look at a man who’s defied expectations at every turn.

THU 7/17 9:30pm
Fairfax 1

Choose Connor
(USA, 2007, 112 mins)
AFTER-PARTY

Directed By: Luke Eberl
SCR: Luke Eberl

A bright teenager learns far more about politics than he’d ever imagined when he falls under the sway of charismatic congressman Lawrence Connor (Steven Weber, Wings) and his handsome young nephew Caleb (Escher Holloway) in this unsettling morality tale. Owen Norris becomes Caleb’s confidant and Connor’s "youth spokesman," but what starts out as a fun summer job takes Owen into the dark places within the corridors of power.

THU 7/17 9:30pm
DGA 1

Loners Drifters Dreamers
Shorts Programs

Program Running Time is 93 min
Ever find yourself caught up in a fantasy of what was or might be? In these smart and sexy shorts about ladies who can’t (and won’t!) be tamed, a librarian’s mind runs wild and a mechanic recounts an unforgettable moment on a motorcycle. Whether she’s a classic drifter hitting the road or a sailor on a mission, she’s looking for something, often herself.

THU 7/17 9:45pm
Fairfax 2

Homoccult & Other Esoterotica

Program Running Time is 76 min
Curated by Daniel McKernan and Richie RenntEnter the visually arresting world of "Generation Hex" artists, a collaborative collection of filmmakers who are inspired by the occult. Like a trip through a house of mirrors, this program is at turns haunting, funny, warped and always provocative. Originally presented as part of New York’s MIX Festival 2007, and featuring internationally renowned artists Ron Athey and Terence Koh, "Homoccult" explores the dark places between the known and the unknown.

 

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Donna Deitch, Dan Butler: Outfest 2008

Ferzan Ozpetek, Bruce LaBruce: Outfest 2008

MAMMA MIA!, "Rough and Ready" Shorts: Outfest 2008

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Fantasia Film Festival 2008

 

 

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