Star-Studded Documentary "Out in the Open" Coming to DVD January 29th

Following the historic reelection of President Barack Obama and marriage equality advancing in four more states, QC Cinema is proud to announce that the January 29th DVD release of Matthew Smith's Out in the Open ($24.99), a documentary comprised of a collection of interviews with successful figures who openly identify with their sexual orientation.  CEO Richard Wolff and Real Stream Productions' Ben Milliken closed a deal for the release at the American Film Market.  

  

This documentary targets at-risk youth across the world, as well as their families, friends, and teachers. Out in the Open presents that no single person is the same and that all people should be celebrated. Out in the Open interviews celebrities, politicians, and everyday allies, straight and gay, who openly celebrate the LGBTQ community. These figures will discuss how they coped with stereotypes attached to their sexual orientation by sharing personal experiences of coming to terms with their sexuality. 

Featured in Out in the Open are gay and allied celebrities such as "Queer Eyes" star Carson Kressley, Oscar nominee Eric Roberts and his wife Eliza, Olympic gold medal diver and activist Greg Louganis, Broadway star Josh Strickland, and musician Keaton Simons among others.  These figures will discuss how they coped with stereotypes attached to their sexual orientation by sharing personal experiences of coming to terms with their sexuality. Out in the Open is aimed to guide the LGBTQ youth who struggle with bullying, ostracism and suicide in their communities.

Real Stream teamed up with Outset, an Outfest/Lifeworks program that offers at-risk LGBT youth an intensive course in filmmaking. Providing them with mentors who take the youth through a crash course, teaching them all there is to know about the art of film. By the end of the program, the students have shot their own short films from concept to screen, and premiered them at Outfest.  Real Stream was there to document this process, and capture their stories for inclusion in Out in the Open. 

  

Breaking Glass Co-President Richard Ross said, ""It is a pleasure to start 2013 with Matthew Smith's amazing documentary Out in the Open. As the country moves further and further away from any sort of closet, the film celebrates acceptance and empowerment for everyone."

  

The DVD will arrive complete a director's commentary, deleted scenes, bloopers, behind the scenes footage and much more.  

Help Lesbian Film by Donating Today: Portrait of a Serial Monogamist

A few weeks ago we introduced you to a new lesbian film-in-the-making: Portrait of a Serial Monogamist is about a forty-something television producer and serial monogamist who breaks up with her long-standing girlfriend, only to discover that she may have broken up with the one she was meant to be with. This film is influenced by such greats like Annie Hall, Manhattan and High Fidelity. 

Set in Toronto, Portrait of a Serial Monogamist tells the story of Elsie Neufeld, a 40 something television producer who is charming, successful and a complete mess when it comes to relationships. When Elsie breaks up with her long-standing girlfriend, she is forced to confront herself, the prospect of being single for the first time and the possibility that she broke up with the one she is meant to be with.

They only have 8 days left in their Indiegogo campaign to raise the funds to shoot the movie. So far, they've raised just over $16,000, which is fantastic, but still leaves them quite a bit short of our goal.  Please donate if you can, every little bit helps!

Interested in learning more about the movie?   We have a couple of videos here shared exclusively for you by the Director of the movie. The first video is Diane Flacks who plays Elsie, the lead

 The second video is Second City alumnus Carolyn (Coco) Taylor who plays Robyn, the one who gets dumped: 

Click here to watch the trailer and donate to this great campaign!

Christina Zeidler Co-Writer/Director/Producer

Christina Zeidler is a film and video artist with over thirty film and video titles in distribution, which have shown internationally at festivals and appeared on television and the web. Christina was named one of Toronto’s 10 best Filmmakers by Cameron Bailey artistic director of Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and has won the Best Canadian Media Award at the Images Film Festival.  Her work has exhibited in numerous venues including the Albright Knox Biennial, Tate Modern and the New York Anthology Film Archives.  She is also President and Developer of The Gladstone Hotel in Toronto.  www.christinazeidler.com

John Mitchell Co-Writer/Director/Producer

John Mitchell is a Toronto writer and director who started his career as one half of the cult 90’s musical comedy duo Brock & John. Mitchell went on to spend two years at the famed Second City in Toronto as part of the Auxiliary Company. Mitchell has written and directed several musical comedies and was one of the early writers of the musical, The Drowsy Chaperone, which went on to win 5 Tony Awards on Broadway. He recently completed post production on his first documentary feature, with co-director Jonathan Crombie, Waiting For Ishtar, about Elaine May’s much-maligned 1987 comedy staring Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty.

The amazingly talented cast:

Diane Flacks/ Elsie

Carolyn Taylor/Robyn 

Vanessa Dunn /Lolli

Caroline Gillis/Grace 

Shoshana Sperling/Rachel

Dawn Whitwell /Jackie

www.portraitofserialmonogamist.com/cast-bios/

Help get the word out:

If you can't make a donation, you can still help by sharing the campaign on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, anywhere you spend time online. It all makes a difference!

Find them online:

www.portraitofaserialmonogamist.com

www.facebook.com/PortraitOfASerialMonogamist

Movie Review: "The Help"

"The Help"

Screenplay written, and Directed by Tate Taylor

Starring Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, and Bryce Dallas Howard




Movie review by Cynthia Rodriguez

This is the first time I can remember doing a book/movie review, and giving both FIVE stars. And it's very well deserved. As well deserved as the Oscar nominations it recieved this year, along with the SAG (Screen Actor's Guild) award for best cast in a film. I'm mucho happy it's being so recognized, and rightly so being that it was so beautifully made, and superbly acted. I believe it's a very important film that everyone should see. Very timely. Even in the year 2012. I pretty much love the movie, as much as I love the book. This is a rare occasion indeed.


Now I won't go into any type of synopsis because I've already done that. (See book review). I will, however indulge into some of the movie magic, and point out a couple things I failed to mention in the book review.


Now this movie is as close to the book as one can get. That is without turning it into a mini-series. It's already 2 1/2 hours long. But it's not the kind of long movie you couldn't watch over, and over again. It's not too "debbie downer", or anything that would stop me personally to a second helping of "The Help". It could've been. They did it just right. There was enough funny to balance out the heavy stuff.


The only, ONLY mini- complaint I have, (and it's very small), is the fact that they made Constanine's daughter black in the movie, when she was actually white in the book, which was really what all the fuss was about in that particular situation. It may not sound it, but being that racism is pretty much the theme here, it's kind of a big deal. Other than that, the movie was just...brilliant.


Now another note about the acting. I know it must have been difficult to pick just THREE from the movie to give Oscar nods. It was one of the times when the ENTIRE cast was just phenomenal. Jessica Chastain makes you fall in love with "Celia Foote", as well as her husband, Johnny. Not that I didn't in the book, but with the book I found myself feeling more sorry for her, but in the film I noticed I cheered for her more. Celia ultimately proves that her "white trash" self ends up having more class than Hilly or any of those snooty bitches she calls "friends". So Jessica definitely earned that nomination. Another one totally worth mentioning is Sissy Spacek, who was quite the leading lady herself back in the day, makes a wonderful "Ms. Walters", especially when she pokes fun at her evil daughter "Hilly". Speaking of Hilly, she's the type of character you just want to punch in the neck, and Bryce does an awesome job of you really hating her. Now's THAT'S acting. I think anytime I see her do anything else, I'll be like, "What a BITCH."


What's my favorite scene? The pie scene, of course! I must have seen that clip about a dozen times already. It just never gets old. The faces on all three characters during that scene is just absolutely priceless.


On the DVD I watched, unfortunetly there were not many special features at all, which was a bit disappointing being I'm such a special features freak. I can sit there (and I have) for endless hours with that, LONG after I've watched the film. Except for a couple of deleted scenes, and a lovely music video by Mary J. Blige, that was about it.

The other very touching part of the film, (as well as the book) is when they somewhat re-create very sad, and tragic, real life history event moments such as when activist Medgar Evans was shot, and killed in his driveway in front of his family (see "Ghosts Of Missippi" movie), and when Kennedy was killed. It all ties in with the hard life, and times of the people stuck in the middle of it all.


This movie is not only entertaining, but a history lesson we should all never forget, and a testamant to what the human spirit can accomplish when it's ready to make a change.

Are You Afraid of Vagina Wolf?

The fundraising campaign for the independent film “Who’s Afraid of Vagina Wolf?” by Anna Margarita Albelo (A Lez in Wonderland, Hooters!) has officially begun via indiegogo.com.  If you're interested in donating, you can follow the link.  Every little bit helps!

A heartfelt dark comedy, “Who’s Afraid of Vagina Wolf” is the coming of age tale of a 40 year old Cuban-American filmmaker. The day after her 40th birthday, a filmmaker who's sacrificed her love life for her career, realizes she has neither decides to embark on adapting an all-female parody of "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?"

It is both intensely personal and universal in its exploration of the search for love, purpose and the midlife existential crisis. You can expect a stellar cast and you best believe it's hella gay.


Visit our website for more vagina http://www.vaginawolf.com/ and meet our celesbian cast and crew!

Movie review: "Bridesmaids"

BRIDESMAIDS

directed by Paul Feig
produced by Judd Apatow
written by Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo

MOVIE REVIEW BY CYNTHIA RODRIGUEZ

I first fell for Kristen Wiig when she played the kick ass roller derby team captain of the Austin, Texas Hurl Scouts, who also had a soft side being the only Mom on the team,
#99 MAGGIE MAYHEM. The one who said, "Be your own hero." I've never been a big SNL fan, so before that, I didn't really notice her, but I remember watching "WHIP IT" and thinking, "Who's that hot grrl that looks like Jennifer Aniston?"


So, I'm usually not a "going to the movies to see a comedy" kind of person. I'm always afraid they are gonna suck, and that I spent twenty bucks on a bag of popcorn alone for nothing. Especially when I consider it to be a "chick-flick". It's usually ONLY when my "date" insists on seeing one, or when I do the group grrly thing and we do dinner and a movie that most likely has something to do with "Sex And The City". I prefer my action/big epic drama/horror film/super hero movie you should see on IMAX kind of films. Everything else can wait until Netflix.

This time I made an exception. I was feeling very chill and laid back this week, and the middle of the week movie night was a spontaneous, rare occurance for me. I'm glad I did that, because it was actually funny as hell.


I think this may possibly be my first "Judd Apatow" experience, even though he did not necessarily write this one, just produced it. And it was without the usual "SLACK PACK" of guys he has in his movies. My first Apatow experience happened to be with all girls, which was quite delightful. The fact that it was from the makers of "SuperBad", etc, really didn't impress me, since I haven't seen any of those films, but I thought I'd give it a shot.


The aforementioned Kristen Wiig stars as "Annie", a woman who is down and out on love, work, her living situation, and...well, pretty much everything and then all of a sudden gets sucked into the vortex that is known as being the maid of honor in her best friend's wedding. The timing couldn't be worse. She's broke, bitter, and not exactly in the most stable state of mind to be planning her BFF's most important time of her life, but she deals, as best as she can, with not too successful results. Sucks for her, but very funny for the rest of us.

The movie dives into the bizarro world that is what I call "wedding culture". There are magazines, books, TV shows, and a multitude of other media dedicated to it. All those quirky, little rituals we have for each other when one is about to strap on the ball and chain, the showers, bachelorette parties, all the elaborate planning for this and that, the venue, the dress, the decorations, the food, the guest list, the entertainment, blah, blah, blah. I believe all that can sometimes get a little out of control. It's fucking insanity. Socially acceptable insanity.


A few notes, on a few things: Some bits of it kinda reminded me of an Adam Sandler movie. Just a few moments when the humor just seems a little too much for me. Like for example, what I call the "gross factor" as in, I didn't really need to see a woman puking on another woman's head. I think there is a tendency for a lot of today's comedies to have that kind of over the top bathroom humor, like literally in the bathroom humor. It's probably just my age showing, but moving right along...






Chris O'Dowd who plays Annie's love interest Officer Nathan is adorable. Although I don't know if it's just me, but his Irish accent was a bit questionable. I felt like I sometimes heard it, and then sometimes I didn't. Not necessarily great looking but so fucking sweet, cute, and charming, you just want to eat him up, with a cream puff on top, as opposed to Annie's "Ted", the dickhead, so-called "friend with benefits" played too well by "Mad Men" Jon Hamm who is really good at playing a douchebag.


The scene-stealer Melissa McCarthy's "Meagan" should have TOTALLY been a dyke. It was like c'mon people! Can't you see it?! The moment she walked onto the screen me and my friend looked at each other and were like "LESBIAN!" It didn't even feel right hearing her talk the way she did about men, and the last scene during the credits with that guy was just WRONG. When she was talking about doing a "Fight Club" bachelorette party theme, I thought to myself, "Thatta grrl!--- yep, LESBIAN!"





It's also good commentary on true friendship, that long-time, goes way back to child-hood, we know everything about each other, and been through everything together, can't do anything without you kind of friendship, and what that means, and how important it is, especially to women.


This is the kind of "girly" movie that is good for EVERYONE. One that both women, and men can appreciate. If not for the theme, definitely for the humor. Whoever says that women can't be funny can kiss Meagan's ass.

Lesbian Movie Review: "The Kids Are All Right"

MOVIE REVIEW


BY CYNTHIA RODRIGUEZ





"THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT"

Directed by Lisa Cholodenko

Starring Julianne Moore, Annette Bening, Mark Ruffalo



"The Kids Are All Right" is more than all right because of the outstanding acting by the above mentioned actors. Even the kids held their own. I don't think it would have been as good if it were a bunch of nobodies. I have to say it wasn't exactly what I expected though. On one hand, I think it's wonderful that a movie about Lesbian parents was able to reel in some big actors that have been in more mainstream movies. Although, at the same time I am not surprised that in order to see it, I had to go to our local indie film theatre which will usually feature the movies you know they won't show at your local mall. A lot of them end up being the "Sundance Festival" films and/or the ones you know will become an IFC cult favorite. I don't know if it's because it was opening weekend or an early Saturday afternoon, but oddly enough, there seemed to have been a significant number of senior citizens in the theatre when I walked in just in time and sat all the way at the front when the film was about to begin. I know this for a fact because even in the almost pitch black dark towards the end of the last preview, I felt like I was completed surrounded by a lot of white haired heads. I thought to myself, "Great, it's like watching a lesbian film with Grandma. Do they even know this is about LESBIANS? What are they doing here? This should be interesting. If there are any sex scenes, this is gonna feel a little awkward."



I always find it intriguing how Hollywood deals with gay. Sure, it's come a long way. See: "The Celluloid Closet" (which by the way, I watched at the same theatre.) Yes, they've gone from the ideals of us being either just a bunch of sissies, butches, and deviants, to gay-sploiting us to their advantage to the now somewhat attempts to show that we can be "normal" like everyone else, such as getting married, and having the perfect little family.


Summary: (which I'm sure you've already heard, read about, or have seen the trailer) A very long term relationship Lesbian couple raising two teenagers they each gave birth to thanks to the local sperm bank. One is the artistic, new agey "house wife" who has been trying to find her niche in employment in like forever, the other the bread-winning established professional ( A Doctor ). The 18 year old daughter is getting ready to go off to college. The son, he's like the typical 15 or 16 year old that hangs out with his prickish little friends and rides his skateboard. The son, endlessly curious about their biological father makes his sister track down their "bio-Dad" who turns out to be a motorcycle riding, carefree, lovable bachelor who runs some organic, hippie, co-op type of restaurant. Apparently meeting him is not enough. They introduce him to the rest of the family, and that's where the havoc begins. What starts as seemingly innocent get togethers, and just hanging out turns into an invasion of the estrogen controlled household he helped create that exposes the maybe not so perfect world they thought they had.


It's dificult to dislike any of the main characters in the film. Annette Bening's "Nic" is a little uptight but cool as shit. Julianne Moore's "Jules" is cute as hell, and Mark Ruffalo's slightly flawed "Paul" is the most adorable I've seen him since "13 Going On 30". In the end you just want everything to work out for all of them. There is really no "villian", which I don't think is usually the case in any film.


Now for my take on the whole thing withought doing the spoilers: I appreciate their attempt at showing that a gay couple can do it just like everybody else. Have a long time partner, have children, work, etc. And also that any marriage be it straight or gay especially after a lot of years together can have it's ups and downs, just like everybody else. What I'm a little torn on is the relationship that begins to develop between one of the Moms (Jules: Julianne Moore), and the bio-Dad Paul (Mark Ruffalo). Part of me is afraid it will perpetuate the myth that I believe many feel that all a Lesbian needs is a good man to "change her ways". I mean, I see where they are coming from but I feel people will misunderstand and not realize that in the end, when it comes to that part, it really has nothing to do with anyone's sexuality at all. It also doesn't help that there is more hetero-sex featured in the film than between the two women. Sometimes I think they do that in these types of movies so it will appeal more to the mainstream masses. I believe that as long as people are open to and comprehend that when watching the film, they can truly hold dear the lessons they can learn from the film. A lot of times I think that when people, particularly the straights watch a Lesbian themed film, that they think they will be in for some good girl on girl action. That is not always the case. Afterall, we DO have other things to do as well. It's not always about the sex. Sometimes it has nothing to do with that at all. We work and play like everyone else, but we just happen to be of that sexual orientation.


So, when people come at us with their snide remarks regarding all of the above, you can always say (my favorite line in the movie by Annette Bening), “I need your observations like I need a dick in my ass.”


Not that there is anything wrong with that. Just sayin'.

Freddy and Me, Horror Re-Makes, and "Nightmare On Elmstreet" 2010

FREDDY AND ME, HORROR RE-MAKES, AND
"NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET" 2010


by Cynthia Rodriguez



I'm going to tell you about the longest "relationship" I've ever had. It's complicated so you may not understand. It's as complex as the other person involved. He is a troubled, disturbed, socially unaccepted, completely psychotic and calculating individual. Who is this charming madman? It's no other than the man of everybody's dreams, Mr. tall, sienna-burnt dark, and fugly himself, Freddy Krueger.





It all began at the tender, impressionable pre-teen years. From the time I experienced the first, original "Nightmare On Elm Street" movie I was hooked on horror films. Freddy gave me a new appreciation for the genre. A cousin of mine used to joke that it was a good thing I turned out to be an artist, or else I probably would have been a serial killer. Well, it was amusing at the time anyway. What may have given everyone that idea was the fact that I was so obsessed with Mr. Krueger and it manifested itself in several ways. I was Freddy for Halloween for about 4 or 5 years of my life. It was a blast scaring the neighborhood kids at the door trying to get Halloween candy. But hey, that's why they say, "Trick OR treat", right? That costume was one of my prized possesions. I owned every bit of Freddyabilia I could get my fake, knife gloved hand on. I believe there is more merchandise available today than there was back then, including a site which sells custom made REAL knived gloves. Sure they cost about one month's rent but I am SO getting one of those. I could imitate his voice almost perfectly. I used to have fun freaking out my friends on the phone with it. I have a very cool watercolor I did of him when I was a teen which I guess would probably count as my first portrait painting. I also have an old picture of me at one of my first jobs (I believe it was a local drug store in Queens, NY), one of the years I dressed up as him for Halloween. That may have been a contributing factor of me becoming unemployed shortly after. Also, who else would come out in their Highschoool yearbook dressed up as Freddy Krueger? Sure, at one point my parents considered sending me to therapy for it, but I convinced them it was just part of my creativity, and entertainment. Yes, I was an interesting child. Some kids slept with their teddy bears, and Rainbow Brites, I slept with my talking Freddy Krueger doll.






One, two, the re-makes coming for you, oh excuse me, they call them "re-imaginings" now. What a crock o' shit. I think that horror films may be the most re-made, (or re-imagined), recycled, re-done, re-altered movie genre of all time. I believe there are several reasons for this. This is when I feel comparing horror films to porn is appropriate. Lots of similiarities. One is that both can be made in someone's basement. With horror, throw in a mask, a couple cutlery utensils, some ketchup, and voila. Second, both genres' actors are not exactly known for their Oscar caliber, suberb thespian skills. Most of the time it's a bunch of nobodies. At best, with the horror, if you're lucky you'll get the latest teen sensations from music and television on the screen for five minutes until they get slashed out of the picture. Now I didn't say it would be any good, but with horror, even when it's bad, it's good. A horror film that may blow at the box office can become a "cult classic" on DVD.






Three, Four, this bitch is at your door. Feeling this wouldn't be complete without a little feminist slant, I must say, even as a staunch horror fan, it has not gone unnoticed that just as in other genres such as most sci-fi, and action movies, or MOST films period, with the exception of the "chick-flicks", the horror film has also been dominated by the male species. Perfect example of this would be the fact that pretty much every horror icon is of the masculine type. Freddy, Michael Myers, Jason Vorhees...Chucky. There is yet to be a huge, superstar female serial killer slashing her way to horror film greatness. It would certainly be a refreshing touch to see some sociopathic, bloody action from a gal spewing some smart ass commentary of her own, while stalking and terrorizing some scantily clad drunken frat boys, "Don't run, don't run. Your castration will be so much easier, (for both of us), if you just stay still."


Five, six, hold on to your ____, (okay that one is just too easy.)







Now lets get back to Elm Street. I thought the original was brilliant. It revolutionized horror films. When the nightmare began, it was a dream come true for a whole new world of fantasy horror. Of course since then they have dragged it out, milked it dry. As they have others. They send them to space, to hell, to Manhattan. They tag team with other. These are not just horror films. They are franchises, and Freddy is no exception. Seven, eight, now for the part that I hate...


I was dreading the re-make. I knew it was coming even before it was announced. It was inevitable. They had already taken Michael, and Jason so I knew it was only a matter of time. And of course they were ripe to pick a new Freddy which just the thought of that gave me chills, and not in a good way. Anyone around my age thinking themselves worthy of being called a "Generation X"er knows there is no Freddy Krueger unless it is Robert Englund. Yes, Jackie Earle Haley is an excellent actor but there is no comparison.





Because of this Gen X bias I realize I cannot fairly rate this film. Not that that's stopping me from doing so. On it's own, it's okay. It's watchable. It has all the ingredients, and usual suspects. Plenty of slash, bam, thank you ma'am moments, and cute, young stars of today. Back then, we had Johnny Depp in the original, now they have one of the hunky guys from Twilight. Even in this genre, it has become guilty for CGI overkill. No more just using latex, and cornflakes. In the future I suspect we may be victim to more Elm Street "re-imaginings", maybe a prequel, Freddy as a child or in his tweens, with Robert Englund doing a cameo as his Dad. Whatever it may be, I know I'll be stupid enough to be right there in the movie theatre to see it.



Nine, ten, here we go again.

Lesbians like "Sex And The City", too!

LESBIANS LIKE "SEX AND THE CITY", TOO!


by Cynthia Rodriguez



It's not all about the L-Word, Will & Grace, and Ellen. Lesbians like other T.V shows, too. I mean, we do realize other entertainment exists out there that's not necessarily gay. One day I was scheming with a friend about our pre-weekend plans for our "Sex And The City 2" evening shenanigans. Another colleage eavesdropping couldn't resist on harping me with, "How can you like Sex And The City? You're a Lesbian". As if the show had some kind of secret rating I was not aware of. "RATED 'S' FOR STRAIGHTS ONLY." I was like, "Bitch, please. I read the book by Candace Bushnell, and I've seen every episode". I've loved it for years. Albeit an ex-girlfriend got me into it, as ex-girlfriends do. Each ex leaves their mark on you a different way. You get into some musician or band with one. With another, you learn to love a certain movie after watching it with with them about fifty times. And yet, with another, you get hooked on a particular show. Enter Sex And The City.






So, after this little catty exchange with my nosy cohort, I couldn't help but wonder...


Is there straight - gay segregation in the world of entertainment?


After I typed that last line I thought to myself, duh, of course there is! Just like everything else. Why should this region of activity be any different? When people make snarky remarks, or ask me dumb questions like that I can't help but think to myself, "Should we be using separate restrooms, too? Oh thank you my dear heteros for allowing us to drink the same water. May I go see your straight movie now? In exchange, you are more than welcomed to Netflix "Pink Flamingos" if you'd like."






As you can see, this is not any type of review for either of the S.A.T.C movies. It's just another rant in hopes that breeders can understand that when someone comes out, they don't necessarily cut out all forms of entertainment in their life if it doesn't have anything to do with gay. It's also an excuse to publicly applaud one of my favorite shows of all time .






Sure, I must admit, when I first came out, I almost thought it was a requirement to see, hear, and do all things queer...and nothing else. I felt if I dare strayed from the freshly paved, yellow brick road I'd have my newbie permit revoked and be banished from New Dyke City forever. This was around the same time my then apartment was struck with rainbow fever, when even my toilet seat cover couldn't escape the force of the rainbow pattern. I had to hang out in only places that were gay, listen to gay music, gay T.V, gay movies, all people, places, and things had to be...gay. Well, that didn't last. Like a good little dyke, of course I like my gay entertainment just like the next queer, however, I realized if I could just see over and beyond the rainbow, there was much more out there just as amusing. I made an amazing discovery. Straight people can be funny, too. Looking back at my hetero roots I began to grasp the concept of mixing it up, learning that there was a whole world out there that was fun, too, and *GASP*, had nothing to do with gay. Just because I dropped certain things like...men, didn't mean I had to abandon things I enjoyed before because they would be considered some type of straight tendency. I believe that in doing so would be a bit Lesbo-nazi-ish.





So, getting back to the wonderful world of "Sex And The City". First off, I loved the book. More than I think I want to admit. Okay, so it's not "War And Peace", but so what. I was fascinated by Candace Bushnell's stories. The way she just put herself out there, whether they were true or not, it didn't matter. They were realistic enough. If it didn't happen to her, I'm sure it happened to somebody. I had never read anything like that before. That lion-hearted way to go out there and taste life, love, and everything in between. That's what I like about the lead character in the show/movies as well. Her emotional cojones, her confidence, her swagger. Even during all the pitfalls that would rock her emotional foundation, she at least always had the insight to take a moment to step back and examine what was going on. Her choices, way of life, where she was, and where she wanted to be. I guess it helps that it's kind of her job to do that, being that she is a professional writer. But not just anyone can put their life experiences out there, and serve it up on a delicious platter, for the world to feast on, and enjoy.





I guess this is where the Lesbian side of me peeks through. You won't hear me raving on and on about the fashion, the shoes, oh the shoes, I know, I know, the shoes. Yeah, whatever. Sure, that's nice, too. It's definitely all a very purdy package to look it. Cue the dork in me, this is when I say, it's so much deeper than that. I think the producers were brilliant in knowing how to lure the straight women, and gay men into watching this show. The CLOTHES. Then they got sucked in because it actually spoke of important stuff. Relationships, sex, love, etc. Though, just to point out something about the show's famous clothing. I know it means absolutely nothing coming from someone who owns 500 t-shirts, and 3 pairs of jeans, but I must say a lot of what I've seen them wear and people praise them for, like giant flowers on their chest, and huge, awkward hats that can't possibly be practical in any way, other than for runway models and celebrities trying to be all "cutting edge" on the red carpet, who actually wears any of that stuff? First of all, who can afford it? (See prior sentence). And second, seriously, who wears that? No one looks that fabulous just walking to the store to get some milk. Somebody get me my pajama pants and slippers...





The other thing I love are the friendships. Like TRUE friendship. The kind of, years go by, I haven't seen you in awhile but feel like I just talked to you yesterday type of deal, the people get married, have kids, get divorced, get married again, have affairs, I fucked up, you fucked up but I love you anyway, and I know you love me, evolving, everlasting type of friendship that survives, and surpasses all obstacles, and relationships that may come, and go, and come and go. That tight circle of love that wraps around you, reminding you that no matter what, you are never alone. As they would say on the show, "soulmates".






Finally, I love the sometimes raw and risque, in-depth analysis of relationships via their lively, witty conversations and love portrayal are as if taken straight out of women's private talks with each other. You hear yourself doing a lot of "Oh my God, that's so me.--- I've thought that. --- I've said that. --- I've done that". Not that the show hasn't had it's moments with the whole homo-eroticism thing, and has opened doors for other T.V programs to do the same, but the point is relationships are relationships, be it straight, gay, bi, tri- (anything once) sexual, whatever. Some may find themselves relating to a particular character more than another. It certainly makes a SATC party run smoother when people stick to their roles, but in the end, us Sex And The City fans find a little bit of all four of them in each of us.







In case you were wondering:

Character I most relate to: Samantha

My favorite: Charlotte (YUMMMM)

Movie Alert: Julianne Moore and Amanda Seyfried Lock Lips Cougar-Style in 'Chloe'

Chloe is the remake of the French 2004 thriller Nathalie directed by Anne Fontaine starring Gerard Depardieu, Fanny Ardant, Emmanuelle Beart. Egoyans Chloe stars Julianne Moore, Liam Neeson and Amanda Seyfried.

Meet Catherine (Julianne Moore) and David (Liam Neeson). She's a doctor, he's a professor, and both are, at first glance, the perfect couple. Happily married with a talented teenage son, they appear to have an idyllic life. But when David misses a flight and his surprise birthday party, Catherine's long simmering suspicions rise to the surface. Suspecting infidelity, she decides to hire an escort, Chloe (Amanda Seyfried) to seduce her husband and test his loyalty. Catherine finds herself 'directing' Chloe's encounters with David, and Chloe's end of the bargain is to report back, the descriptions becoming increasingly graphic as the meetings multiply.



For those of you who have always played out the Cougar fantasy in your head (or in real life) then you know the hotness involved in the whole "older woman meets younger woman" scenerio. Remember the 2006 release of the movie"Loving Annabelle"? I'm pretty sure there are women out there who are still drooling over that one. If you liked that, then chances are you will be interested in Chloe, being release by the The Montecito Picture Company on March 19, 2010.


SIDEBAR: I've been a fan of Amanda Seyfried since Mamma Mia and then became more of a fan after that luscious kissing scene between Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfriend in Jennifer's Body. In case you missed it, I have graciously shared with you the delicious enticing kiss scene from Jennifer's Body. I have two words for you: CLOSE UP.



At first glance, Chloe looks like a typical romantic thriller involving a femme fatale and a married man with disastrous consequences. And I am perfectly fine with that, but after watching the trailer, lesbians and bi-curious straight women everywhere will be in shock at the glimpse of what seems to be a hot lesbian cougar twist thrown into the movie. It should come as no surprise that it is based on a french movie and if anyone knows anything about hot steamy sex and passion, it's the french. Here's the trailer, we hope you enjoy it as much as we did and would love to hear your thoughts on it.

Double Book/Film Review: "Push" and "Precious"

BOOK REVIEW

BY CYNTHIA RODRIGUEZ



"PUSH"

by Sapphire
This short but disturbing read will burn a hole through your heart. The poet Sapphire's debut novel has been hailed as a modern day "The Color Purple". This is not just another kid from the ghetto story. It is a heartwrenching book that covers a multitude of issues that must be paid attention to such as child abuse, teen pregnancy, AIDS, racism, obesity, (just to name a few), and a fucked up social system that allows certain individuals to fall through the cracks, and a dysfunctional, enabling society that turns a blind eye to their own people.


The story revolves around, and is semi-illiterally narrated by sixteen year old Claireece Precious Jones, a Harlem teen in the 80's. One, who has thus far survived some horrific things, in the hands of her extremely scumbag father, and her unbelievably cruel mother. Every unspeakable, disgusting, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse from the two people in her life that are supposed to be there for her to love her, protect, and defend her. Yes, the book is painfully graphic, and at times I felt sick to my stomach and had to put it down temporarily to recover from certain parts.


Being that almost the ENTIRE book was written phonetically, it takes a little getting used to in the beginning. I think it was a brilliant touch though, and did not take anything away from the novel for me. I believe it takes skills for someone to do that. It's like an opera singer attempting to sing bad on purpose for a certain role.


In spite of her colossal obstacle course, you can see that little, itty, bitty light at the end of the tunnel that is her spirit trying to fight and break free from the life she was born into, and take control of her own destiny.


I have to say, also while reading this and pondering the monstrosity of the hand this young person has been dealt and somewhat overcomes, I thought to myself a few times, "Oh my God, I woulda hung myself right about now". I know that sounds terrible, but just being honest. Goes to show ya', while the rest of us are being whiny, little bitches about the holidays or some other pathetic crap, they are PLENTY of people out there coping with some serious, horrendous shit.


This is the type of thing that makes people want to get into social work. Oh wait, I already do that. As tough and intense as it may be, I think I'll keeping doing it.







MOVIE REVIEW

BY CYNTHIA RODRIGUEZ






"PRECIOUS"

DIRECTED BY LEE DANIELS

PRODUCED BY OPRAH WINFREY AND TYLER PERRY



This film was as painful to watch as the book was to read. This heartbreaking interpretation on screen was right on. Of course, they had to lighten it a bit for a general audience that would be more likely to see the story in movie form than would actually read it.


I'm not at all surprised that Oprah backed this film, especially since she starred in the classic, "The Color Purple" back in the day.


I was surprised however by the outstanding performances by quite a few in the film that I would have never expected such hard hitting presentations of the characters from the book. I guarantee you'll see these people again around Oscar time. If we don't, it would be criminal.


Newcomer Gabourey "Gabby" Sidibe is truly believable as the movie's main character Precious Jones. So young and talented. I can see her doing a lot in the future as long as she doesn't get pigeon holed into stereotypical roles, which unfortunetly happens with such breakout roles such as these.


Comedian Mo'nique. Wow. Like you've never seen her before. She plays a very convincing and disturbing portrayal of the truly fucked up, repulsive mom. By the end of the movie, no, mid movie, shoot, the beginning of the movie, you just wanna reach out into the screen and beat her down.

Mariah Carey. I didn't even recognize her in the trailers. Holy shit. Not a HUGE part in the film as the social worker, but a very powerful performance. She definitely redeemed herself after "Glitter".


Paula Patton as Ms. Rain, the alternative school's teacher and Precious' savior is such a gem in this film. You cannot, NOT fall in love with her character. And did I mention, she also plays a LESBIAN? Hot. Not that, that is necessarily pertinent to the story or this review, but afterall, this IS Lesbiatopia so...


Moving right along, last but not least, Lenny Kravitz. Hot little singer with the nice butt, who woulda thunk it? Playing a small but important role as Precious' nurse, he's deep, and very sweet. Enough to make straight women swoon over him as much as they do over his music videos.


You can see "The Princess & The Frog" all over the place, but a future classic like this? You have to either go out of town or get a hold of a freakin' bootleg to experience it? That's some bullshit.


However you can see it, see it. It'll hit you hard and make you think. Long after any Disney song you get stuck in your head.

Movie Review: Paranormal Activity

HORROR MOVIE REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez


HAPPY HALLOWEEN my fellow Lesbiatopians (and allies & friends of Lesbiatopians)! And HAPPY SAMHAIN to my fellow Wiccan Lesbiatopians! I figure since a lot of Lesbians have a tendency towards paganism beliefs as much as vegetarianism and Doc Martens I thought the spiritual shout-out would be appropriate.


To celebrate this glorious and much misunderstood holiday I thought it would be loads of fun to kick off my favorite day of the year by dipping my toes into the bloody pool of HORROR MOVIE REVIEWING.


Yes, girls and ghouls, consider this my official, on-line debut of the creepy, spooky, scary, heebie-jeebie world of horror films. My favorite genre of movies. Well, that and porn, but I will get to that at another time. I realize not everyone is a fan. For those of you who pretty much abhor horror films, please skip to the next blog. Just for the record, I have done a horror movie review once, years ago for a local paper who asked me to do that, it came out pretty decent so I thought, "what the hell?, I'll do it again..." So here goes...


"PARANORMAL ACTIVITY"

Directed by Oren Peli






No one can deny this little mockumentary horror movie that could. This over hyped film with it's 7 day shoot and $15,000 budget with no name actors (that use their real names in the film) and first time director with no formal training has thrown the country into an insomnia frenzy.



I went to see this a couple of weeks ago with two friends of mine. Their very different reactions to the film was probably the most entertaining part for me. One practically cackled with laughter through most of the film, the other I believed would have missed half of the movie if I weren't there to constantly nudge her to open her eyes, covering her face with her jacket. That's when she stopped holding the popcorn for us and held up her apparel like a shield. Of course, afterwards, the one who covered her eyes claimed the movie was only "20% scary", although she admitted to not be able to sleep for three days. The other one who had the attack of the giggles, apparently had some issues sleeping that night as well. It is a well known fact that laughter is a common coping mechanism when people watch scary movies. It helps them deal. As for myself, fortunetly when I turned off my light at night when I went to bed, I probably thought about it all for a few seconds until my head hit the pillow, then I slept like a rock. I must confess though, I did make sure my blanket covered my feet...






I didn't know much about "Paranormal Activity" when I went to see it, and it wasn't exactly on my "must see" list for the Fall. It's been 10 years since we've ALL been gipped by the hype of a low budget, "is it real? is it real??", home movie style fright flick where the camera work makes you a bit dizzy. Yes, it IS the new Blair Witch Project. And yes, I was one of the many idiots who thought the Blair Witch Project was real, until I saw the actors on MTV. I even bought a book about it, and was even planning a trip to Burkittsville, Maryland. I'm glad I didn't go. The "scariest" things I probably would have encountered would have been a bunch of local teenagers playing pranks on tourists, and bumping into campers having unprotected sex and smoking pot in the woods. So they got me with that one, but I wasn't gonna fall for it THIS time, no sir.


Except for a brief special appearance by a paranormal expert, the movie is basically a cast of two, three if you include the "demon spirit". It follows the couple's few weeks adventure in trying to figure out all the "WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT?" noises and strange goings-on in their abode. Armed only with their home video camera, we get in inside glimpse of the spirit's constant shenanigans against the freaked out couple. Things escalate overall affecting the couple's relationship and way of life in general.





The suspense, the waiting for something to happen, the it's too quiet kind of feeling then wham, bam, a door slams is what gets you. Also knowing that these types of experiences really do happen to people, that it's not impossible, also creeps people out. I have personally experienced paranormal activity myself. I'm a believer.



It was a little funny, too. The smart-ass male character Micah Sloat mostly brings the comic relief to the film while it's mostly the female in the film, Katie Featherston dealing with the brunt of the spiritual harrasment. Well, kinda.


Apparently, there are some alternate endings floating around on-line. I read about them, but I have yet to see them. I'm sure they will be included in the special features section of the DVD which will probably be out by Christmas. I'm sure it will include that and most likely some type of commentary by some famous psychics or ghost hunters or something ...






Props to the Director Oren Peli for not giving up on his little film that was actually released two years ago. I wish I could create something like this and make mega bucks out of it.


I've also heard rumors of, of course, a sequel. Paranormal Activity 2. Just like with Blair Witch Project 2. They gotta get greedy about it and fuck it up.


I have to share quick a couple of lines from other (mixed) reviews I read about it I thought were really good (from two different sources):


"...half the time I was hoping that it would kill the couple and move to a house with better actors..."


"Will this movie make you afraid to go to sleep , or put you to sleep?"


Classic.







Love it or hate it, everybody knows this will become a cult classic, and the actors will probably end up signing autographs at horror movie festivals.

Double review: Film and Bar, Coyote Ugly

Alot of "firsts" this week. This is my first bar review. I figured while I was at it, to throw in a review of the movie that was based on the bar.

MOVIE REVIEW

"COYOTE UGLY"

by Cynthia Rodriguez





If you haven't seen this movie yet, you should really have your Lesbionic license revoked. I mean, seriously, beautiful women, singing and dancing on a bar, what more can you ask for? When this film first came out, quite a few critics were pretty harsh on it. C'mon now, lighten up. It wasn't meant to be Oscar material, it's an eye candy movie, and it needs to be rated as such. I've seen much worse when it comes to eye candy movies, and this is one of the better ones. It's a feel good, light and fluffy, romantic/musical like comedy meant to be watched 137 times, until you know all the words and dances by heart. Yes, needless to say, it's one of my favorites, and it's absolutely mandatory for all Lesbians.



It is the story of Violet Sanford, a young, beautiful, aspiring, struggling songwriter from New Jersey, adorably played by the doe-eyed Piper Perabo, (first time I fell in love with the actress), trying to make it in the "big, bad city" of New York. Throw in a few life obstacles, Kevin (played by Adam Garcia), a cute boyfriend from Australia, who is also a struggling, well, we don't really get to know too much about him, but who cares? It's all about the girls. You also have a lovable, teddy bear of a Dad played by John Goodman, and a gorgeous supporting cast of "Coyotes", which includes Tyra Banks, and Violet's "day" job working at the hottest night spot in NYC, Coyote Ugly. All those ingredients add up to a very fun film you won't mind watching again, and again.


The movie is based on the real-life bar in NYC by the same name. A former Coyote named Elizabeth Gilbert apparently wrote an article called, "The Muse of the Coyote Ugly Saloon" in some magazine, and someone decided to make a film out of it. Works for me. I have not seen the DVD yet. It supposed to have some tasty special features, so I definitely plan on checking that out.


It definitely gives you an appreciation on bartending. I used to bartend. It was one of the most fun jobs I've ever had in my life. Good times. Of course, they take it to a whole new level with their "flairtending", the art of manipulation of bar tools, bottles, glasses, etc. In other words, doing alot of cool tricks with the shot glasses and such. I would also like to mention that Rachel, "the New York bitch", played by Bridget Moynahan is my favorite Coyote. Everyone has a favorite Coyote.


So is it cliche-ish? Yes. But, so what. Some of the most fun movies to watch never go anywhere near any kinds of awards. You don't hear anyone saying they can watch "No Country for Old Men" a hundred times.






BAR REVIEW

(THE ORIGINAL)COYOTE UGLY, NYC

by Cynthia Rodriguez







It took me almost a decade to get there but I finally did it. I went to Coyote Ugly in New York City. Now THAT was a fun evening. I did some research first. It has become quite the franchise. I wanted to experience the original one. The one the movie was based on. I read the reviews on it. I thought to myself, "keep your expectations low, and your acceptance high", that way I wouldn't be dissapointed. I pretty much do that with everything. It worked.

I can't tell you about the other locations, just this one. It can't be rated as a night club, or "regular" bar. It's a dive. A good dive. If you like dives, then you'll love it.


Being a first timer, I realize I probably had "SUCKER" written all over my forehead. They WILL take advantage of that, which is of course, part of the charm. I walked in there with my "RORCROTCH TEST" t-shirt which was my solo art show involving painted crotch blots. Without explanation of this, the first Coyote that caught my eye seemed to know what it meant and promptly proceeded to lift her leg up and slam her cowgirl boot on the bar and said, "So, what do you see?", as she pointed to her happy place. Completely catching me off guard, I didn't utter a word. What I was actually thinking was, "my head, right there." Of course, I didn't SAY that, but I was THINKING it. I didn't want to be rude. Besides, the bouncer guy looked kind of scary.

Yes, to me it was just like the movie, except alot smaller, and only two Coyotes were on duty. The one did the twirly stuff with the shot glasses, which are HUGE. They are more like, double, triple shots, which I didn't realize until I had hit the "porcelain alter" later that evening. The other danced on the bar. This was very entertaining. They were both fun, and nice to talk to. It's definitely a SALOON. Meaning country/western type atmosphere. But again, being what it is, I can deal with that.


I immediately became drinking buddies to a native saloon goer who was apparently a regular, and was smart enough to stick to the $2. cans of beer. He filled me in on all behind the scenes, as he called it, "seedy scene".


It IS one of the cheapest places in town to drink as long as you stick to the cheap stuff. Once you hit their liquor shelf and start buying and chugging down shots with the ladies, do body shots, and any other delightfully shameful activity, then you're pretty much screwed. I spent an obscene amount of moolah there that night. Not that I regret it, I'm just stating a fact. And surely, I got the t-shirt. No good tourist leaves without the shirt.


I was probably the only Lesbian there that night, and maybe one out of two or three women, other than the employees. They did inform me that, not surprisingly, they are quite popular among Lesbians. Duh.


Your best bet to get home or wherever you're going after Coyote Ugly is to take a cab. I would not recommend stumbling around the subway. That is, of course, only if you do Coyote Ugly right, and by those standards, I definitely did.

Double review: Book and Film

This is my first "double review". I thought it would be fun to review both the movie, and the book it was based on. This is also my first movie review, not just at Lesbiatopia, but in general.






BOOK REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"QUEEN BEES & WANNABES"

by Rosalind Wiseman


I wish this book had been around when I was a teen. It would have saved me a whole lot of heartache, and confusion. "Queen Bees..." was originally intended for parents of teen girls but has become a marvelous instruction manual through "Girl World" that is just as relevant for adult women. Rosalind breaks it down for us in an entertaining, amusing fashion, the hierachies, the cliques, roles and games we play on ourselves and each other, and how all types of relationships we have/had as teens help mold our connections with everything else as adults.

This lady KNOWS teenagers. You can tell she knows what she is talking about. The book is based on her wonderful "Empower Program" (look it up), in which she goes into schools and educates and advocates a no violence policy by enlightening these youngsters on their own psyche. Alot of the book is actual feedback from the teens on subjects discussed in their classes regarding the agenda.

I was compelled to read this after seeing one of my favorite movies "Mean Girls" for about the 50th time. For me, the bottom line is, people don't really change too much after high school. The biggest, most obvious indicator of this is the work place. You have your "Queen Bees" and the others wherever you go. You can't go through this book, and not say out loud to yourself quite a few times, "Omg, that was ME!", "That's STILL me!", "I do that!", etc. The sad fact is that women can be real bitches to each other. No matter what your background, nationality, sexual orientation, whatever. Of course, the fact that I used the word "bitch" probably defeats the entire purpose of the book. At least I'm aware of that. Well, you know what I mean, I think.

Another significant issue is a girl's issues with her significant other, or others. Naturally, relationships, the good, the bad and the ugly, with family, friends, and boyfriends/girlfriends will shape future relationships. Sometimes it just comes down to breaking that cycle of abuse. I feel that most women never really learn to do that, especially with themselves.


I recommend this book to ALL women, whether you have children or not.

I HIGHLY recommend this book to ALL parents of teenage girls, or will become one someday.

I consider this book a bible for parents of girls. It can save you alot of the hassle of deciphering what's going on in their universe. You'll need it.

This is part of the reason why I chose to remain "child-free", so good luck with that.






MOVIE REVIEW

by Cynthia Rodriguez

"MEAN GIRLS"






The first time I saw "Mean Girls", I thought it was going to be another brainless teen film. Boy, was I wrong. This isn't your typical teen movie. No one is going to White Castle or getting half-baked. It is probably the most intelligent teeny bopper film I can remember watching. It has become one of my favorites. Also, I think it's the smartest movie starring a significant amount of SNL cast members. However, the wit and wisdom do not take away from it's ability to make you LOL (laugh out loud), partly because you know it's true. Brilliant as always, Tina Fey's film adaption of Rosalind Wiseman's book, "Queen Bees & Wannabes" stays true to it's serious messages.

My favorite movie with Lindsay Lohan, who I feel was at the peak of her cuteness, and that sort of innocence about her, is perfect as Cady Heron, a formerly home schooled teen from Africa, who is thrown into a different type of jungle. Public High School. She quickly learns that her excellent book smarts are no match for a different kind of education that most of us are unfortunetly all too aware of. The modern day social science of "Girl World".


There is a hilarious, maybe a tad exaggerated representation of all the different cliques, from the jocks, to the nerds, to the burnouts. Even still, I believe you can identify with one group more than the other when you see it.

The DVD's special features are priceless. I love how it continuously refers to the book the way it does to show it is true to it's origins. You don't see that too often in special features on DVD's, which is interesting being that alot of the material in films ARE from books.

So if you haven't seen "Mean Girls" yet, ya' gotta check it out. I guarantee you'll find a little bit of your high school self in it, as well as the person you are today.