Pride 2023: A Q+ celebration
June 29
Smiley
Smiley is a Spanish romantic comedy series that follows the intertwining paths of two guys from Barcelona, Álex and Bruno.
The story kicks off when Álex accidentally sends a voice message meant for his ex to Bruno, a complete stranger. Despite their differences, the two form an instant connection and decide to go on a blind date.
As the series progresses, Álex and Bruno navigate their feelings for each other, facing the ups and downs of relationships and the challenges of accepting love when it’s right in front of them.
While Álex and Bruno’s love story takes center stage, Smiley also explores a universe of LGBTQ stories. Supporting characters like Vero and Patri, a lesbian couple, add depth to the series as they navigate their own relationship struggles.
Ramon and Ibal, as well as Ramiro, also play important roles in pushing Álex and Bruno’s relationship forward. One standout character is Javi, who serves as a guide and voice of reason while searching for love himself.
Throughout its eight episodes, Smiley combines comedy and romance to deliver a heartfelt story that pays homage to classic rom-coms. It showcases the vulnerability and various forms of love, emphasizing that regardless of background, appearance, age, shape, or orientation, everyone is equally deserving of love.
With a solid cast and compelling characters, Smiley is a feel-good series that brings joy, laughter, and a touch of holiday spirit to viewers.
Where to watch? Netflix.
All In My Family
All In My Family is a heartfelt and intimate documentary that chronicles the personal journey of filmmaker Hao Wu as he navigates the complexities of family, identity, and acceptance within the context of his traditional Chinese upbringing and his own experiences as a gay man.
The film begins with Hao Wu, who has been living in the United States for many years, returning to his hometown in China to introduce his partner, Eric, and their two children to his conservative family.
As Hao grapples with the cultural and generational divide, he candidly shares his hopes, fears, and the challenges he faces in reconciling his two worlds. Through interviews with his parents, siblings, and extended family members, All In My Family offers a glimpse into the intricacies of Chinese family dynamics and societal expectations.
The film explores the deep-rooted cultural norms that prioritize conformity and traditional values, often leading to the suppression of personal desires and individuality. Hao Wu’s journey becomes a microcosm for the larger LGBTQ+ experience in China, shedding light on the struggles faced by many folks who must navigate the delicate balance between their authentic selves and societal expectations.
The film also touches upon the impact of China’s one-child policy, the pressure to carry on the family lineage, and the importance of maintaining an appearance of conformity. As the story unfolds, All In My Family captures tender and emotional moments as Hao Wu confronts his family’s reluctance to fully accept his relationship and his children.
The film portrays the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit as Hao and Eric strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for their family, even in the face of societal and cultural obstacles. All In My Family is a moving exploration of the universal themes of love, family, and self-acceptance. It invites viewers to reflect on their own notions of identity, tradition, and the evolving nature of family in a rapidly changing world.
Through Hao Wu’s personal narrative, the film reminds us of the transformative power of understanding, compassion, and the courage to be true to oneself. With its poignant storytelling and authentic portrayal of personal struggles, All In My Family is a compelling documentary that invites audiences to connect with the universal longing for acceptance, reminding us of the importance of embracing and celebrating our differences.
Where to watch? Netflix.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating novel that delves into the glamorous and scandalous life of Evelyn Hugo, a legendary Hollywood actress whose rise to fame and seven marriages have made her an enigmatic figure in the entertainment industry.
The story is narrated by Monique Grant, a struggling journalist who receives an unexpected opportunity to interview Evelyn Hugo. Monique is intrigued by the chance to uncover the truth behind Evelyn’s legendary career and tumultuous personal life.
As Evelyn recounts her life story, the narrative alternates between her past and the present. From her humble beginnings in Hell’s Kitchen, New York City, to her arrival in Hollywood and her meteoric rise to stardom in the 1950s, Evelyn shares the intimate details of her journey.
Evelyn’s story intertwines with the history of the entertainment industry, exposing its dark underbelly and the sacrifices she had to make to achieve success. She navigates a male-dominated world, facing sexism, racism, and exploitation. Along the way, Evelyn also confronts her own identity as a Cuban-American woman, often needing to hide her heritage to conform to the expectations of the time.
While exploring Evelyn’s career, the novel unravels the mystery behind her 7 husbands. Each marriage holds a secret that has shaped Evelyn’s life, and as Monique delves deeper into the actress’s past, she uncovers shocking revelations about love, ambition, and the price of fame.
The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo explores themes of love, sexuality, identity, and the complexity of human relationships. It delves into the sacrifices one must make to achieve their dreams and the lengths people will go to protect the ones they love.
With compelling characters and a richly detailed portrayal of Hollywood’s golden era, Taylor Jenkins Reid takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the tumultuous life of Evelyn Hugo. As the truth unfolds, Monique discovers that her own life is entwined with Evelyn’s in unexpected ways, leading to a poignant revelation that challenges her own beliefs and transforms her understanding of love and sacrifice.
The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo is a riveting tale that captures the glitz and glamour of Old Hollywood while delving into the complexities of the human heart, leaving readers captivated until the very last page.
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