Queer cinema over the past few years has forged a deep love affair with the coming of age narrative. Gay relationships and teenage angst go hand in hand like peanut butter and jelly. However, recent LGBTQ+ films are offering a limited view of the queer experience: one that is white, male and young, exposing their first, awkward, sometimes emotionally potent forays into queer sex and intimacy. Many times open without fear of reprisal.

This month’s episode is dedicated to the films, and the characters who grapple with the conflict between who they are, and what society expects them to be, as they slowly find their place in the world. But more than that, they push the boundaries of the narrative: What is each country’s legacy with regards to queer liberation? How does this context shape the experiences of characters?

Films mentioned:

• But I'm a Cheerleader (Jamie Babbit) (USA)

• Rafiki (Wanuri Kahiu) (Kenya)

• House of Hummingbird (Bora Kim) (South Korea)