Layla
15
Layla is a struggling Arab drag queen whose confident façade hides their desperate desire for love. When their performance at a belittling corporate Pride event turns into a transgressive takedown, they are surprised to catch the eye of marketing executive Max, whose attentions sweep Layla off their feet. The two start an intoxicating romance, bus as Layla starts to alter who they are in order to keep Max's interest, they both have to face uncomfortable truths.
Details
“A delectable spectacle, offering up a joyous assortment of sensorial delights.”
Asian Movie Pulse
“An exuberant appreciation of queer life.”
IndieWire
“The movie has a great sense of humor, and anyone familiar with the type of queer scene that Layla and their friends are in will feel right at home. Al-Kadhi creates a world that is real but never wallows in the tragedy of some of the heavier issues queer people deal with – like losing family, gentrification, drug use, femmephobia, and relationship trouble.”
Out Magazine
“More than anything 'Layla' is a lovely character study about a lovely character who makes mistakes and learns from them.”
The Wrap