A free screening of the documentary The New Black, a film that tells the story of how the African-American community is grappling with the gay-rights issue, will be shown at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, in the Normal Theater. Immediately following the screening, a panel discussion will be held that includes The New Black actress Kress Taylor-Hughes and Illinois State Associate Professor of English Duriel Harris.
The New Black takes viewers into the pews, onto the streets and a seat at the kitchen table as it tells the story of the historic fight to win marriage equality in Maryland. The documentary is part of Your Normal LGBT Film Festival and is sponsored by Prairie Pride Coalition and the Normal Theater.
Your Normal LGBT Film Festival creates a showcase for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender stories and arts to entertain, inspire and increase the number of Central Illinois fans and champions. Feature films will also be shown for a cost of $7 per viewing or a pass is available for $25. Each film begins at 7 p.m., at the Normal Theater.
This year’s titles include:
Lilting – Thursday, Oct. 16 – A mother and her son’s former boyfriend confront language and cultural barriers while overcoming the loss of a shared loved one. Following the movie, talk with organizers of the festival about the film and enjoy complimentary appetizers at Medici Restaurant.
To Be Takei – Friday, Oct. 17 – Over seven decades, actor and activist George Takei boldly journeyed from a World War II internment camp, to the helm of the starship Enterprise, to the daily news feeds of five million Facebook fans. Join George and his husband, Brad, on this star’s playful and profound trek for life, liberty and love.
Appropriate Behavior – Saturday, Oct. 18 – Shirin is a bisexual Persian, dealing with a breakup, confronting her very traditional family and navigating young adulthood in Brooklyn. Inspired by Woody Allen’s Annie Hall and compared to HBO’s Girls, Appropriate Behavior balances humor, melodrama and awkwardness with touching relatable situations. Following the film, there will be an after party at University Galleries.
The Way He Looks – Sunday, Oct. 19 – A blind student seeks independence from overprotective parents and friends through an unlikely new student. The film is in Portuguese with English subtitles.
For more information, contact Your Normal LGBT Film Festival committee at committee@yournormalfilmfest.com or call the Normal Theater event hotline at 454-9722.
