Although I’ve only experienced Ava DuVernay’s brilliance through her films, I deeply admire her talent for illuminating the narratives of those who have been marginalized, oppressed, or even silenced for simply being themselves. Through her artistry, she fosters understanding of systemic injustices, encouraging us to reflect and confront uncomfortable truths in approachable ways. As a writer, director, producer, and independent film distributor, DuVernay inspires us to broaden our perspectives and recognize the injustices present in our own communities.
Next month, ARRAY Now, the independent film distribution company she founded, will debut Funny Boy, a cinematic adaptation by director Deepa Mehta based on the novel of the same name by Canadian-Sri Lankan author Shyam Selvadurai. Scheduled for release on Netflix on December 10th, the film offers a unique glimpse into a family and culture that may be unfamiliar to many.
Selvadurai’s book, released nearly three decades ago, explores the life of Arjie, a young boy navigating his identity as a gay individual in a war-torn Sri Lanka, a nation not far from India. The film is being submitted for Canada’s 2021 Oscars in the international film category and serves as a beacon of hope for LGBTQ individuals around the globe.
This marks DuVernay’s first foray into LGBTQ storytelling, providing crucial representation at a time when our rights are increasingly under threat in the United States. I can’t help but ponder how elements of this narrative will empower countless individuals to embrace their true selves and encourage others to see us as equals.
My own journey of coming out was fraught with fear, much like many other queer individuals. I consider myself fortunate to live in a society that, despite its flaws, offers some level of acceptance. However, I remain concerned that the rights of myself and my loved ones could be jeopardized by current political climates. In stark contrast, 72 countries still criminalize homosexuality, with 11 imposing the death penalty for same-sex relations.
For many LGBTQ youth, films create a sense of belonging. Positive representations of our experiences, such as seeing gay and lesbian characters in mainstream media, can inspire hope like nothing else. One film that profoundly impacted me was Fire, also directed by Deepa Mehta, which aired in 1996. Though I didn’t view it until my freshman year of college, it provided me the language to articulate feelings I had for a female classmate.
Back in 1996, I was grappling with my identity; understanding and accepting who I am remains a work in progress. According to a 2013 survey by DoSomething.org, 92% of LGBTQ adults observed a rise in societal acceptance over the past decade, yet much work remains to be done. Films like Funny Boy and creators like DuVernay and Mehta play crucial roles in advancing societal acceptance.
When executed effectively, films allow us to immerse ourselves in different perspectives, even if just for a brief moment. With Funny Boy set for release on December 10th, viewers will have the opportunity to connect with a South Asian family and witness a personal coming-out story that ultimately reveals our shared humanity. As the credits roll, DuVernay invites us to engage actively in the world and advocate for justice for all.
For additional insights, check out this article on the importance of visibility in the LGBTQ community, which complements our discussion here.
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Summary:
Ava DuVernay’s upcoming film Funny Boy provides vital representation for the LGBTQ community, highlighting the personal journey of a young boy in war-torn Sri Lanka. As the film premieres on Netflix, it serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the importance of acceptance, especially in challenging times. Through powerful storytelling, DuVernay and Mehta inspire hope and encourage advocacy for equality.
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