Reeling 2009: Beyond the Down Low

From the rich history of homosexual contributions during the Harlem Renaissance to the modern fear of being outed within close-knit organizations such as the black Greek system, this Reeling shorts program presents different facets of a culture within a culture. Admission: $10.00 ($8.00 members), tickets available online: http://reelingfilmfestival.tix.com * Betrayal (Reggie Coleman, USA, 2009): When rumors about Keith’s sexuality surface and quickly spread, his life is turned upside down and the bonds of his closest relationships are tested. * Carmen’s Place (Anna Wilking, USA, 2009): In Queens, New York, homeless teenagers learn to be secure, self-reliant adults from the Episcopal priest who runs a transgender-friendly shelter. * Jackson Parish (Edward McDonald, USA, 2009): A young gay man in Louisiana learns the value of family tradition while digging a grave for his grandfather. * Take the Gay Train (Robert Philipson, USA, 2008): “The Gay Train” makes three stops along the cultural landscape of the Harlem Renaissance: one poem, one short story, and one drag ball. * Mothers (B. J. Winfrey, USA, 2009): A man and his long-term partner invite his close-minded mother out to San Francisco to sway her with a grandson. About Reeling: Reeling 2009, the second-oldest LGBT film festival in the world, will run November 5th through the 15th, showcasing innovative gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender films from around the globe. Reeling will take place at Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema (2828 N. Clark St.), Film Row Cinema (Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash Ave.), Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport Ave.), and the Festival’s home base at Chicago Filmmakers (5243 N. Clark St.). As always, Reeling continues to push boundaries and keep the festival’s programming fresh and culturally rich by presenting work from worldwide perspectives and in genres ranging from light-hearted comedy to introspective experimental. Our mission is to recognize the important artistic and socially relevant contributions LGBT filmmakers have made to our culture and to counteract stereotyping with valid, meaningful, and diverse portrayals of LGBT people. For film and event information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.reelingfilmfestival.org.