Tongues Untied

18 TBC

Tongues Untied (1989) uses poetry, personal testimony, rap, and performance (featuring poet Essex Hemphill and others), to describe the homophobia and racism that confront Black gay men.

The stories are fierce examples of homophobia and racism: the man refused entry to a gay bar because of his color; the college student left bleeding on the sidewalk after a gay-bashing; the loneliness and isolation of the drag queen. Yet they also affirm the Black gay male experience: protest marches, smoky bars, “snap diva,” humorous “musicology,” and Vogue dancers.

Over a quarter of a century after its release, director Marlon T. Riggs’ documentary, winner of the Los Angeles Film Critics Award, and Best Documentary prize at the Berlin Film Festival, is as relevant as ever.

“My struggle has allowed me to transcend that sense of shame and stigma identified with my being a black gay man. Having come through that fire, they can’t touch me.” —Marlon T. Riggs

Leeds Queer Film Festival creates spaces to showcase queer cinema with a focus on independent and DIY films. LQFF screen films that elevate and prioritise the voices and work of those most marginalised within the LGBTQ+ communities. Follow them on Instagram @leedsqueerfilm or check out their website to find out about upcoming events