One of the most anticipated queer films at the Toronto International Film Festival is playing to sold-out audiences and getting rave reviews, with some calling it the next Precious. Titled Pariah, it’s the feature film debut for director Dee Rees and has the backing of heavyweight Spike Lee, who is executive producer.
The film packs a surprising emotional punch in the over-crowded field of coming-out stories.
The main character, Alike, played by Adepera Oduye, is a Brooklyn teen who is trying to find her place in the world of femme and butch dykes. Her family is less than supportive. The most heart-wrenching reaction is from her mother, played by In Living Color veteran Kim Wayans.
Pariah, which also created a big buzz at Sundance, has its final screening at TIFF on Wednesday, Sept 14 at 5:45pm. See the TIFF schedule at http://tiff.net/thefestival.
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