Pride 2024: A Q+ Celebration!
June 7
Cassandro
Cassandro, distributed by Amazon Studios and directed by Robert Ross Williams, takes viewers on a whirlwind journey through the life of Saul “Cassandro” Armendáriz (Gael Garcia Bernal) – an openly gay Mexican-American luchador (wrestler) who dares to break free from the mold in the 1980s. The film opens in the gritty arenas of border-town wrestling, where Saul, known back then as “El Topo” (The Mole), fights in relative obscurity. His dreams of success seem distant until he discovers a path less traveled: the world of “exóticos,” flamboyant wrestlers who defy convention by fighting/performing in drag.
Exóticos are male luchadores who appropriate feminine aspects in their Lucha Libre personas, challenging the sexist macho culture that characterizes this sport and rejecting social standards of masculinity. Although Exoticos may not necessarily be gay, they often are, incorporating their LGBTQ+ identities into who they are in the Lucha Libre ring.
Saul’s reinvention into Cassandro, an Exotico wrestler, involves not only a change in appearance but also an unapologetic embrace of his gay identity in the wrestling ring, which is something that he had been hesitant to do for many obvious reasons. The film’s portrayal of Saul’s transformation in Cassandro, a name inspired by a telenovela Saul was a fan of, is a powerful testament to the importance of embracing one’s true self, even in the face of adversity.
Lucha Libre is a sport intertwined with performance art where the fierce athleticism in the ring can overshadow the theatricality that surrounds it. It’s a world where masks, mystique, and machismo collide, making Cassandro’s unapologetic presence there even more groundbreaking.
Saul Armendáriz, through Cassandro, became an emblem of resilience and authenticity, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Lucha Libre and beyond. His legacy as the “Liberace of Lucha Libre” continues to inspire and uplift those who dare to be their most authentic selves.
Where to watch? Cassandro is available to stream on Prime Video.
Warrior Nun
Warrior Nun, a Netflix original series, is a thrilling blend of action, fantasy, and supernatural drama. The show, which premiered on July 2, 2020, is inspired by the comic book series Warrior Nun Areala by Ben Dunn. It centers around a young woman named Ava Silva (Alba Baptista), who wakes up in a morgue with a divine artifact embedded in her back and discovers she now possesses extraordinary powers.
Ava, who had been a quadriplegic orphan, finds herself suddenly thrust into the ancient Order of the Cruciform Sword, a secret sect of warrior nuns sworn to protect the world from demonic forces. Struggling to understand her newfound abilities and the responsibilities that come with them, Ava becomes the reluctant hero as she learns to navigate her new life. Alongside her, a diverse group of fierce nuns, including Sister Beatrice (Kristina Tonteri-Young), Sister Lilith (Lorena Andrea), and Sister Mary (Toya Turner), fight to protect humanity from sinister threats.
The show’s plot thickens as Ava grapples with questions about faith, loyalty, and her role in the impending battle between heaven and hell. The series blends intense action sequences with moments of introspection and character development, creating a compelling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Set against stunning European backdrops, Warrior Nun offers a rich visual experience, complementing its intricate storytelling and complex characters. With its strong female leads, engaging plot, and supernatural intrigue, Warrior Nun has quickly gained a dedicated fanbase. The series’ unique mix of mythology, action, and drama makes it a standout in the genre, offering a fresh and exciting perspective on the classic battle between light and dark. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy or just looking for a captivating new series, Warrior Nun is a must-watch.
Where to watch? Warrior Nun is available to stream on Netflix.
First Time For Everything By Henry Fry
First Time For Everything by Henry Fry is a heartfelt and humorous debut novel that explores the complexities of self-discovery, identity, and the unpredictable journey of finding one’s place in the world. The story follows Danny Scudd, a twenty-something gay man living in London, who seems to have his life perfectly under control—until he doesn’t.
Danny’s seemingly stable world starts to crumble when he gets dumped by his boyfriend, loses his job, and is forced to move in with his best friend, Jacob. Jacob, an artist with an unconventional lifestyle, challenges Danny to confront his insecurities and step out of his comfort zone. As Danny navigates this new chapter of his life, he realizes that he has been living a life dictated by others’ expectations rather than his own desires.
The narrative takes readers on Danny’s journey as he attempts to reinvent himself. He grapples with his fears, revisits past traumas, and embarks on new experiences that push him to explore who he truly is. Along the way, Danny encounters a colorful cast of characters, each of whom plays a pivotal role in his transformation. From his supportive yet exasperating friends to the enigmatic and charming love interests he meets, Danny’s interactions are both comical and poignant.
Through a series of firsts—first heartbreak, first tattoo, first time standing up for himself—Danny learns to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. His path to self-acceptance is messy and unpredictable, but it is also filled with moments of joy, laughter, and personal growth. Fry’s writing is witty and insightful, capturing the essence of what it means to be a young adult trying to figure out life’s complexities.
First Time For Everything is not just a story about a gay man’s coming-of-age; it’s a universal tale about the struggles and triumphs of finding oneself. Fry’s debut novel is a celebration of friendship, love, and the courage it takes to be true to oneself. It’s a relatable and uplifting read that resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost or uncertain about their place in the world.
Where to buy? First Time For Everything is available at all reputable booksellers.
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