5 queer stories to check out this Pride Month
Our lives are often reflected in the stories we consume. That is why representation remains important, especially during Pride Month, when stories that capture the queer experience — both its joys and struggles — resonate with LGBTQIA+ audiences, while others can gain a better understanding of lives and perspectives different from their own.
Here are five stories to check out this Pride Month in Cebu — four on the big screen and one on the stage.
Queer (June 10)
The 2024 gay period drama starring Daniel Craig is finally getting a Philippine theatrical release in time for Pride Month, opening exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas on June 19.
Directed by Luca Guadagnino, "Queer" follows William (Craig), an American immigrant living in Mexico, who becomes infatuated with a younger American soldier named Eugene (Drew Starkey). Set in the 1950s, it is a steamy, hedonistic love story that features explicit sex scenes and depictions of drug use, earning an R-18 rating from the MTRCB.
"Queer" is adapted from William S. Burroughs' novella of the same name, which is said to be a semi-autobiographical account of the author's self-imposed exile in Mexico after fleeing the United States to avoid drug charges, during which he pursued sexual relationships.
The film received positive reviews from critics for Guadagnino's direction and its bold exploration of loneliness and addiction, with Craig earning widespread acclaim for his performance.
Open Endings (June 10)
This female-led ensemble slice-of-life film, directed by Nigel Santos, charmed Cinemalaya audiences last year with its relatable and authentic depiction of the female queer experience.
Starring Janella Salvador, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Klea Pineda, and Leanne Mamonong, the film follows four queer women with a deep-rooted history together as former lovers turned best friends as they navigate the challenges of adulthood in their 30s.
The film will be released to the general public on June 10, exclusively at SM Cinemas.
Hook-Up The Musical (June 13)
Jude Gitamondoc’s “Hook-Up The Musical” returns for a second run in time for Pride Month on June 13 at the SM Seaside Sky Hall after receiving enthusiastic reactions from audiences during its premiere last December.
It focuses on a budding romance between an openly gay boy named Tim and a reserved, closeted Manny, who first meet on a dating app. Interwoven with the main story are hilarious and provocative musical numbers from its ensemble cast that candidly explore romance, sex, and queer experiences, entertaining audiences with catchy lyrics while placing a strong emphasis on HIV awareness.
Paul Pablo, Grant Bacaltos, Shim Dagatan, and Jan Echavarria will reprise their roles, taking turns portraying Tim and Manny. The June 13 run will feature a 1 p.m. show with discounted tickets for students, a matinee at 4:30 p.m., and a gala at 8 p.m.
A Quiet Bloom (June 21)
Hailed as the first Bisaya girls' love film, "A Quiet Bloom" stars Victoria Ingram and Leigh Sunga as lovers in this film directed by Drae Cerna and Yamie Cerna, with the latter also writing the screenplay.
Produced by BisayaFlix and Wolfpack Productions, it will premiere on June 21 at SM Seaside Cebu.
Drags to Riches (June 24)
"Drags to Riches" is directed by Cebuano filmmaker Victor Villanueva, known for his comedies "Patay Na si Hesus" and "I Am Not Big Bird."
As announced recently by Cornerstone Entertainment, plot details remain under wraps. The film will star Christian Bables in a drag role, with Inigo Pascual and Elijah Canlas as his co-stars.
"Drags to Riches" will be released exclusively in SM Cinemas on June 24.
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