Pride 2024: A Q+ Celebration!
June 17
Mary & George
Mary & George is a captivating historical drama series that delves into the intriguing and complex relationship between Mary Villiers and her son George. Set against the backdrop of early 17th-century England, the show explores the duo’s ambitious rise to power in the court of King James I. Mary, a widowed noblewoman, is determined to secure a prosperous future for her family and uses her intelligence, charm, and strategic mind to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics.
George Villiers, under his mother’s guidance, ascends rapidly through the ranks, becoming the favorite of King James I. The series highlights the lengths Mary goes to, by manipulating alliances and rivals, to ensure her son’s prominence and influence. Their bond is both tender and formidable, showcasing Mary’s unwavering support and George’s growing confidence and ambition.
As George’s power increases, so do the dangers and enemies they must confront. The series portrays the intricate web of court intrigue, political maneuvering, and the personal sacrifices both mother and son endure. Mary and George’s dynamic is at the heart of the show, revealing the complexities of familial loyalty and the ruthlessness required to maintain their status.
Mary & George is not just a historical drama; it’s a commentary on ambition, desire, and the lengths people will go to achieve their goals. It’s a compelling exploration of power dynamics, personal identity, and the complex relationships that shape our lives.
Where to watch? Mary & George is available to stream on Starz in the US and Sky in the UK. It’s also available on Prime Video in various regions.
More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera
More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera is a compelling and emotional young adult novel that explores themes of identity, memory, and the complexities of growing up. The story centers around Aaron Soto, a sixteen-year-old living in the Bronx, who is grappling with the recent suicide of his father and his own subsequent attempt. Aaron is trying to find happiness again with the support of his girlfriend, Genevieve, and his close-knit group of friends.
As Aaron begins to recover, he meets Thomas, a new friend who quickly becomes very important to him. Thomas’s presence makes Aaron question his own feelings and identity, leading him to confront aspects of himself he had been avoiding. Their growing bond stirs up confusion and fear within Aaron, who struggles to reconcile his emerging feelings with the expectations placed on him by his friends and society.
More Happy Than Not introduces the concept of the Leteo Institute, a place offering a revolutionary memory-alteration procedure that promises to help people forget traumatic experiences. Aaron becomes increasingly drawn to the idea of undergoing this procedure to erase his feelings for Thomas and the associated turmoil.
However, as he delves deeper into the potential consequences of altering his memories, Aaron must decide whether forgetting is the path to happiness or if confronting his true self is the only way to heal. More Happy Than Not is a heartfelt story about love, loss, and the courage it takes to be oneself.
Where to buy? More Happy Than Not is available to purchase at all reputable booksellers.
Mama’s Boy
Mama’s Boy is a powerful and heartfelt documentary that delves into the life of Academy Award-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black. Directed by Laurent Bouzereau, the film is based on Black’s memoir and focuses on his relationship with his mother, Anne, a deeply religious and conservative woman who raised him in a strict Mormon household. Despite their differences, particularly around Black’s sexuality, their bond remains strong and transformative.
The documentary explores Black’s journey from a small town in Texas to becoming a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. It highlights the pivotal moments in his life, including his struggles with his identity and his drive to make a difference through his work. The narrative is enriched with personal anecdotes, family photos, and interviews, providing a deeply intimate look into Black’s world and the challenges he faced.
A significant portion of the film is dedicated to the evolving relationship between Black and his mother. Anne’s journey of acceptance and understanding of her son’s sexuality is portrayed with sensitivity and nuance, showcasing the power of love and empathy in bridging divides. Her story is a testament to the idea that change and acceptance can come from even the most unexpected places.
Mama’s Boy is more than just a biography; it’s a celebration of resilience, love, and the enduring bond between a mother and her son. It invites us to reflect on our own relationships and the importance of understanding and acceptance. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in stories of personal growth, family dynamics, and the fight for equality.
Where to watch? Mama’s Boy is available to stream on Max
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