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NO STRAIGHT LINES: THE RISE OF QUEER COMICS

SUNDAY, OCT 17, 12:00 PM, NW FILM FORUM &
VIRTUAL (OCT 14–24)

SPONSORED BY:

Vivian Kleiman; 2021; USA; 78 min.  

Inspired by the anthology of the same name, this lively documentary reveals the “hidden history” of queer comics. Soon after Stonewall, five pioneering artists (Alison Bechdel, Jennifer Camper, Howard Cruse, Rupert Kinnard, and Mary Wings) broke queer storytelling out of the closet, with characters whose mere existence challenged the status quo. Their stories centered themes of coming out, discrimination, the AIDS crisis, marriage, racism, gender, and disability in funny, uncensored ways. Since then, queer comics have evolved right along with the movement for equality, gaining international attention. This warm-hearted tribute to art, politics, and comedy is sure to make you both laugh and think of how far our community has come.

We’ll be joined after the screening for a special Q&A with queer comic Rupert Kinnard, who is featured in the documentary.

CONTENT WARNINGS: VULGAR LANGUAGE, NUDITY, NON-EXPLICIT SEXUAL SITUATIONS, EXPLICIT SEXUAL SITUATIONS (Some of the comic book drawings can be quite graphic, and suggestive.)