Nothing Gentle in the Shadows tackles the stigma and silence surrounding sexual violence against men and how their masculinity is questioned by authorities and society when it is brought to light. This documentary details three male sexual assault survivors from diverse backgrounds who share their harrowing experiences of what they went through, emphasising that sexual violence can happen to anyone, regardless of race, gender, or age. Through their stories and the use of symbolic imagery, the documentary revisits spaces that allows the viewers to delve into the lives of the survivors.
In all honesty, “Black and Blue” is a satisfying experience, complete with solid craftsmanship. With the help of cinematographer Dante Spinotti, Deon Taylor (the director) creates a murky, lived in atmosphere.
She is being made to justify why she doesn’t believe he’s a feminist, instead of him having to justify his choice to claim he is one.
This list was made with the intention of celebrating comedic craft and a love of seeing more women of colour and newcomers on the scene.
Two Distant Strangers (2020) centers around Carter James (Joey Bada$$) as he tries to get back home to his pitbull, Jeter, after spending a night at the apartment of his date Perri (Zaria Simone). What gets in the way of Carter reuniting with his dog is that every time he tries to leave Perri’s apartment, he is killed by police and wakes up back in her bed in a never-ending cycle. It addresses the issue of police brutality which rightly has been in the public eye more and more with the unjust deaths caused at the hands of law enforcement.
For anyone who is not a cis white woman, a justice-fueled murderous rampage is not framed as liberation. Instead, they contribute to harsh stereotypes that vilify minority women with dangerous consequences.
So with the recent (rightful) public apologies to Britney from comedians and media for trashing her image in the 2000s, perhaps some people should also give Crossroads the fair chance it deserves. It won't be everyone's cup of tea, and that is fine. Personally, I will take my girl Britney and her movie, over the next testosterone "Dude Flick" any day.
