Pride 2023: A Q+ celebration
June 21
Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
Last Night At The Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo is a captivating historical fiction novel set in San Francisco’s Chinatown during the 1950s.
The story follows the life of Lily Hu, a Chinese American teenager who is discovering her identity and exploring her sexuality in a time of societal restrictions.
Lily, a studious and introspective girl, begins to question her attraction toward girls as she navigates the expectations of her traditional Chinese family and the conservative norms of the era.
The backdrop of the Red Scare and the Lavender Scare further intensifies the challenges Lily faces, as she grapples with both her ethnic and sexual identity.
In her search for self-discovery, Lily stumbles upon the hidden world of the Telegraph Club, a lesbian bar, and finds solace and understanding among the diverse group of women who gather there. Encountering people from different backgrounds and walks of life, Lily begins to understand that she is not alone and that there are others who share her desires and struggles.
As Lily’s feelings for her best friend, Kathleen, deepen, she must confront the risks and consequences of embracing her true self in a society that refuses to accept her love for another girl. She battles internal conflicts, cultural expectations, and the fear of being ostracized by her family and community.
Against the backdrop of the vibrant city and its rich Chinese culture, Last Night At The Telegraph Club explores themes of love, identity, and the power of community. It vividly portrays the struggles and triumphs of a young woman fighting for her right to be herself and pursue her own happiness, despite the obstacles that lie in her path.
With its compelling characters, atmospheric setting, and poignant storytelling, the novel delves into the complexities of intersectional identities and the resilience of the human spirit. Last Night At The Telegraph Club is an emotional and empowering tale of self-discovery, love, and the courage to live authentically in a world that seeks to suppress individuality.
Alex Strangelove
Alex Strangelove is a coming-of-age comedy film that follows the journey of Alex Truelove, a high school senior who has it all figured out until he meets an intriguing and openly gay classmate, Elliot.
Alex is a typical teenager with dreams of going to college, a loving girlfriend named Claire, and a group of close-knit friends. However, as graduation approaches, Alex begins to question his sexuality and finds himself increasingly drawn to Elliot’s free-spirited personality.
As Alex explores his feelings, he becomes conflicted and uncertain about his relationship with Claire. He embarks on a personal journey of self-discovery, grappling with his own desires and societal expectations.
The film explores themes of sexual orientation, self-acceptance, and the complexities of teenage relationships. Throughout the story, Alex’s friendship with Elliot deepens, and the two form a strong bond. Elliot becomes a mentor of sorts, helping Alex understand his own emotions and providing support as he navigates his evolving sexuality.
As Alex’s confusion grows, he must confront his fears, face the challenges of his changing relationships, and ultimately find the courage to be true to himself. Along the way, the film portrays the ups and downs of adolescence, the importance of understanding and acceptance, and the power of self-discovery.
Alex Strangelove is a heartfelt and humorous film that delves into the complexities of sexual identity and the universal journey of discovering one’s true self. It explores themes of love, friendship, and the courage to embrace one’s own authenticity, leaving audiences with a message of acceptance and self-empowerment.
Where to watch? Netflix.
The Last of Us
The Last Of Us is a critically acclaimed adaptation of the action-adventure video game. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the story revolves around Joel, a hardened survivor, and Ellie, a young girl immune to a devastating fungal infection that has decimated humanity.
Together, they embark on a perilous journey across the United States, navigating through hostile territories and encountering various factions and infected creatures. In this harrowing tale, society has crumbled, and survivors have formed factions, each with its own agenda.
Joel, who has experienced loss and tragedy, becomes responsible for Ellie’s safety as they traverse the dangerous landscape. Their ultimate goal is to reach the Fireflies, a group of rebels who believe Ellie’s immunity could lead to a cure for the infection.
Throughout their journey, Joel and Ellie face numerous challenges, both from the infected and from other survivors who are willing to kill to ensure their own survival. The bond between Joel and Ellie deepens as they overcome these obstacles together, forming a paternal relationship rooted in love and protection.
However, as they reach the Fireflies, Joel discovers that Ellie’s life would be sacrificed in the pursuit of a cure. Driven by his affection for Ellie and haunted by his past, Joel makes a devastating decision. He rescues Ellie from the Fireflies and kills those who stand in his way, choosing to prioritize her well-being over humanity’s potential salvation.
The Last Of Us explores themes of survival, love, loss, and the moral complexities of a world in ruins. It immerses viewers in a gripping narrative, testing their resolve and challenging their perceptions of right and wrong in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Where to watch? HBO Max (Max)
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