Pride ⛏
Hello! Every Monday this month, I’ll be recommending a movie by or about members of the queer community in celebration of Pride Month. And what better way to start than…
Today’s movie is Pride (2014)—streaming on Prime Video. This feel-good dramedy by theater director Matthew Warchus is based on the true story of the Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners campaign. Today, this story is more relevant than ever as different oppressed groups come together to support the Black Lives Matter movement, as you should be.
Here’s what it’s about: It’s 1984. In England, Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers is on strike. Meanwhile, a group of queer activists decides to raise money to support the families of the striking miners—in an act of solidarity. However, the Union is too embarrassed to receive their support, setting off a journey of acceptance, love, and protest. [Trailer // 120 mins]
Why you should watch it: “It’s a show of solidarity. Who hates the miners? Thatcher. Who else? The police, the public, and the tabloid press. That sound familiar?” But also, sound familiar? You can replace a couple of words in that quote and talk about exactly what’s happening today. And while Pride’s message that our similarities are greater than our differences is profound and well delivered, it’s also entertaining.
Pride is careful not to tread into the territory of a contrived or corny feel-good historical dramedy and instead use its well-drawn characters to tell its endearing story—with all the heartbreaking moments intact. Its cast of British screen legends—Imelda Staunton, Bill Nighy, Andrew Scott—and newcomers (at the time)—George Mackay, Ben Schnetzer, Joe Gilgun, Faye Marsay—give Pride its heart and spirit while also delivering genuine laughs.
📺 Buy or Rent: Prime Video | iTunes | YouTube
Pair it with 🍷
The Birdcage: Armand Goldman (Robin Williams) owns the drag cabaret The Birdcage with his life partner Albert (Nathan Lane), who’s also the star performer. When their son Val (Dan Futterman) announces he’s getting married, they’re forced to put up a false straight front to host his fiance’s ultraconservative parents (Gene Hackman and Dianne Wiest). [Where to watch]
Support the Girls: The movie follows the lives of a group of waitresses at a Hooters-like restaurant in Texas. In particular, the manager Lisa (Regina Hall) and her two friends and employees Macy (Haley Lu Richardson) and Danyelle (Shayna McHayle). [Where to watch]
Don’t forget your own mental health this week. Recharge and practice self-love.
See you Thursday —
Karl (@karl_delo)