Better late than Never

So, I made this earlier this year, clearly. I was in a creative rut, and needed to just edit something. SO I figured I’d take part in the “My Favorite Movies of…” super edit craze that cinephiles take part in each year. Here are my questionable opinions, laid out in montage form, over a few sleepless nights.

WARNING: This video may potentially trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised. I own none of the material in the video, it is used for educational and critical purposes only. I loved David Ehrlich's countdowns so on the treadmill I figured I'd try my hand at one. This is my first time making any countdown like list of any sort. Thanks for watching.

baby’s First “Hollywood REPORTER” MENTION…

I had a really great opportunity to give a few soundbites about what it is like to be a queer filmmaker in Georgia, with all of the anti trans, and ANTI-LGBTQ focused legislation that is on the books in so many states, especially the south, especially florida, and Georgia. So grateful they chose to include a bit of my statement. and I stand by it.

I also finished the outline for yet another edit of XOXO: For the Love of Football tonight. But I have been able to step away long enough to look at this entire project with fresh eyes.

I am excited again.

XOXO - Leo.

Living (and working) in Hostile States Like Florida and Tennessee While LGBTQ

an Open Letter to Queer filmmakers

In the wild world of film, it's all too easy to become entangled in the web of politics. It's a film "business," and the business side often takes center stage, leaving us feeling a bit lost. The frustrations are real, from networking challenges to the constant hustle, especially when we lack established connections. And don't get me started on that dreaded "what do I gain?" attitude that we've all encountered at some point along this filmmaking journey.

Let's face it: if you're a filmmaker who hasn't faced rejection, you're either the luckiest person alive or making films solely for yourself, with very few viewers in sight. (Both of which can be a vibe, no lie.)

But then, in the midst of it all, I find solace and inspiration in the magical world of cinema. I remember the movies that left me breathless, like "Beautiful Thing", "Paris is Burning", "Billy's Hollywood Screen Kiss", "She's Gotta Have It", "Dazed and Confused", "Young Frankenstein", "Victor/Victoria", "The Princess Bride", "House Party", "Jurassic Park"... you get the picture, and I hope you've felt the same awe.

The beauty of being part of the queer film community is that it truly is a community. We are a collective of like-minded individuals pushing toward a common goal. When we work, we aren't just pursuing our individual dreams; we're lifting each other up and propelling our entire community forward. It's an incredible privilege to be part of a community that doesn't treat us as mere stepping stones but values us as integral contributors.

Together, challenging societal norms, and amplifying queer voices through our art, we forge bonds that transcend geographical boundaries, unifying queer filmmakers across the South and beyond. It's within this interconnectedness that our strength lies; where the strength of film and art lies – the power of shared experiences, dreams, and aspirations.

While we may face obstacles, let us never forget we have the opportunity to inspire generations to come, just as the films that once inspired us.

So, my fellow filmmakers and artists, let us continue to challenge the status quo, and bring our visions to life knowing the sum of our parts is greater than any individual success. Together, we are a force to be reckoned with, a testament to the indomitable spirit of queer filmmaking.

In this ever-evolving industry, may we always find the courage to create, the strength to uplift, and the resilience to triumph. Let's keep pushing forward, supporting one another, and celebrating the extraordinary journey we're on. Together, we will make our mark on the world, one frame at a time.