Pride 2024: A Q+ Celebration!
June 14
Everything Now
Produced in the UK by Left Bank Pictures and Sony Pictures Television, Everything Now dropped on Netflix on October 5, 2023. Hailing from the creative mind of Ripley Parker, this British comedy-drama has eight episodes that take viewers on a roller coaster ride through the highs and lows of adolescence.
Everything Now centers on Mia (Sophie Wilde), a 16-year-old girl who’s just returned to her life after spending months in a clinic receiving specialized treatment for anorexia and bulimia. Her return to reality comes with challenges — in her school, with her friends, and of course in her family dynamics.
Her life is not what it used to be as people talk behind her back, she has completely lost her privacy and is faced with the complexities of the healing process that are often misunderstood even by those closest to her. But the hardest part? She feels left behind.
While being away, life moved on for her best friends Becca (Lauryn Ajufo), Will (Noah Thomas), and Cam (Harry Cadby), so now Mia feels like she’s fallen behind in the typical experiences of people her age. To catch up, she drafts a bucket list and recruits her friends to help check off every significant milestone — from first dates to parties, alcohol, drugs, and even tattoos.
Mia’s bucket list becomes more than just a checklist; it propels her through a series of firsts, capturing the essence of the teenage experience, all while navigating the challenges of her recovery. Using this device to move the narrative forward was really clever, as it allows us to see that Mia is not your average teenage protagonist. She’s clearly on a difficult journey to recovery, but the beauty of the show is that, although her illness is a big part of her life, the show refuses to let it define her.
In a sea of teen series, Everything Now manages to stand out, not only for its engaging storyline but also for bringing queer identities to the forefront and portraying life’s challenges with authenticity.
Where to watch? Everything Now is available to stream on Netflix.
Fairest by Meredith Talusan
Fairest by Meredith Talusan is a poignant and powerful memoir that explores identity, transformation, and the search for belonging. Talusan, a Filipino-American transgender woman with albinism, shares her deeply personal journey of self-discovery and resilience in a world that often marginalizes those who do not fit into conventional categories.
The memoir begins with Talusan’s early life in a rural Philippine village, where her albinism sets her apart from her family and community. Despite these challenges, Talusan’s intelligence and talent earn her a scholarship to a prestigious school in Manila and later to Harvard University. This transition from her humble beginnings to the halls of one of the world’s most renowned universities is a testament to her determination and adaptability.
As Talusan navigates the complexities of her identity, she grapples with questions of gender and sexuality. Her experiences as an albino child in the Philippines, a gay man at Harvard, and eventually a transgender woman, form the core of her narrative. Talusan’s candid reflections on her relationships, both romantic and familial, reveal the intricate layers of love, acceptance, and self-worth that shape her journey.
Fairest is not just a story of personal transformation but also a commentary on the broader societal issues of race, gender, and privilege. Talusan’s eloquent prose and unflinching honesty invite readers to reflect on their own assumptions and biases. Her story illuminates the intersectionality of identity and the ways in which our various facets can both conflict with and complement each other.
Talusan’s memoir is a moving and insightful read that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt different or struggled to find their place in the world.
Where to buy? Fairest is available to purchase at all reputable booksellers.
My Fake Boyfriend
My Fake Boyfriend is a lighthearted and charming romantic comedy that brings a modern twist to the classic fake relationship trope. The film follows Andrew (Keiynan Lonsdale), a young man struggling to get over his toxic ex-boyfriend, Nico (Marcus Rosner).
Desperate for a way to move on, Andrew’s best friends, Jake (Dylan Sprouse) and Kelly (Sarah Hyland), come up with an unconventional solution: they create a fake boyfriend for Andrew using social media. This fabricated persona, named “Cristiano,” (Jaden Goetz) quickly gains popularity online, providing Andrew with the perfect cover to escape Nico’s grasp.
As Andrew’s fake relationship with Cristiano takes off, his life becomes increasingly complicated. While juggling the attention and intrigue surrounding his new “boyfriend,” Andrew meets Rafi (Samer Salem), a charming and genuine chef who captures his heart. Torn between maintaining the facade of his fake relationship and exploring a real connection with Rafi, Andrew finds himself in a series of hilarious and awkward situations.
The film explores the themes of self-discovery and the impact of social media on modern relationships. As Andrew navigates the complexities of his dual life, he learns valuable lessons about authenticity, love, and the importance of being true to oneself. The dynamic between Andrew and his friends adds a layer of humor and warmth to the story, highlighting the significance of supportive friendships in overcoming personal challenges.
My Fake Boyfriend offers a delightful mix of comedy, romance, and heartfelt moments. The film’s engaging storyline and relatable characters make it an entertaining watch for anyone who enjoys romantic comedies with a contemporary edge. With its witty dialogue and clever commentary on the digital age, My Fake Boyfriend is sure to leave audiences smiling and reflecting on the true nature of love and relationships.
Where to watch? My Fake Boyfriend is available on Prime Video.
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