Pride 2023: A Q+ celebration
June 20
Euphoria
Euphoria is a gritty and visually stunning television drama series created by Sam Levinson. It explores the lives of a group of high school students as they navigate the complexities of love, identity, addiction, trauma, and the challenges of coming of age in a modern world.
The series primarily follows the character of Rue Bennett, played by Zendaya, a teenager struggling with drug addiction and mental health issues. Rue forms a complicated relationship with Jules Vaughn, a transgender girl who recently moved to town, and becomes entangled in a web of love, friendship, and self-destruction.
Each episode delves into the lives of different characters, giving insight into their experiences, desires, and struggles. These characters include Nate Jacobs, a manipulative jock dealing with his own demons; Kat Hernandez, a shy & insecure girl who explores her sexuality & body image online; Cassie Howard, a girl grappling with her self-worth & navigating unhealthy relationships; and many others.
Through its raw and unflinching portrayal, Euphoria tackles a range of challenging and timely topics, including substance abuse, mental health, sexual exploration, consent, identity, and the pressures of social media.
The show presents a realistic and often dark portrayal of the teenage experience, delving into the emotional complexities and vulnerabilities of its characters. Euphoria is known for its visually striking cinematography, powerful performances, and its willingness to confront and examine uncomfortable truths. It weaves together elements of drama, romance, and a touch of surrealism to create a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged and emotionally invested.
The series offers a thought-provoking exploration of the highs and lows of adolescence, delving into the depths of human emotion while also exploring themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the search for genuine connections in a world that can often feel overwhelming and isolating.
Where to watch? HBO Max (Max).
Paris Is Burning
Paris Is Burning is a critically acclaimed documentary film directed by Jennie Livingston. Released in 1990, the film offers a captivating and poignant glimpse into the vibrant underground ballroom culture of New York City in the 1980s.
The documentary focuses on several different aspects of the ballroom scene, which primarily revolved around the African American and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities. It explores the lives of the participants who found solace and creative expression in these underground gatherings.
The film introduces viewers to a diverse range of individuals, often referred to as drag queens or house members, who form their own surrogate families called houses. These houses provide a sense of belonging and support to those who often faced marginalization and discrimination in mainstream society.
Paris Is Burning delves into the intricate world of competitive balls, where contestants showcase their talents in various categories such as voguing, walking, and fashion. The film provides an intimate look at the participants’ dedication to perfecting their craft, their struggles for acceptance and recognition, and their aspirations for a better future.
Alongside the exploration of ballroom culture, the documentary also delves into broader social issues of the time. It examines topics such as race, class, gender, sexuality, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The film offers a deeper understanding of the intersecting identities and complex experiences of the individuals within the ballroom community.
Paris Is Burning is known for its honest and compassionate portrayal of a subculture that has had a significant impact on popular culture, fashion, and the LGBTQ+ rights movement. It serves as a celebration of resilience, self-expression, and the pursuit of personal authenticity in the face of societal challenges.
Where to watch? HBO Max (Max), Prime Video (depends on the region).
Carry On by Rainbow Rowell
Carry On is a young adult fantasy novel written by Rainbow Rowell. It serves as a sort of companion novel to Rowell’s previous work, ‘Fangirl,’ and follows the story of Simon Snow, a young magician attending the Watford School of Magicks.
Simon Snow is the Chosen One in the magical world, prophesied to defeat the Insidious Humdrum, a powerfully magical force that threatens the safety of the magic community. Simon, however, struggles with his magical abilities and often feels overwhelmed by the weight of his destiny.
At Watford, Simon’s roommate and longtime rival, Baz Pitch, is missing. Despite their enmity, Simon becomes determined to find Baz and uncover the truth behind his disappearance. As Simon investigates, he discovers a deeper conspiracy involving the Mage, the headmaster of Watford, and the mysterious origins of his own powers.
As the story unfolds, Simon, Baz, and their friends Penelope and Agatha navigate a dangerous world of magic, facing off against powerful enemies, uncovering family secrets, and forging unexpected alliances. Along the way, Simon and Baz’s complicated relationship evolves from rivalry to something deeper and more complex.
Carry On combines elements of magic, adventure, romance, and mystery. It explores themes of identity, destiny, love, and friendship. With its compelling characters and intricate plot, the novel offers a fresh take on the chosen one trope, while also weaving in humor and emotional depth.
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