State of Pride

State of Pride is a compelling and engaging feature-length documentary film released in 2019 that provides an intimate exploration of the significance and meaning of Pride celebration in the LGBTQ+ community. Directed by Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman, and boasting a notable cast like Troye Sivan, Heklina, and Raymond Braun, the film masterfully provides a deep dive into how diverse communities across the United States celebrate and perceive Pride.

State of Pride is structured around, but not exclusively about, three geographic and sociopolitical backdrops—Salt Lake City, Utah; San Francisco, California; and Tuscaloosa, Alabama. These places are vastly different in their political, cultural, and geographical landscapes, which gives the film a transcendent quality, painting a multifaceted picture of Pride in American life. Central to each location are personal, sincere, and often heart-rending interviews that unravel individual interpretations of what Pride symbolizes to people from different walks of life.

Starting off in Salt Lake City, Utah, the documentary focuses on an area where the history and presence of the Mormon Church cast a long shadow over dealings with LGBTQ+ issues. Despite the inherent conservatism of the region, the film captures an energetic and positive Pride atmosphere that counters this underlying tension. In the midst of this, State of Pride introduces some unforgettable and inspiring personalities fighting for visibility and acceptance of their community.

Then the film leads us to San Francisco, California, acknowledged for being a cornerstone of queer activism during the late 20th Century, and still revered by many as a haven for LGBTQ+ individuals around the world. It’s here where State of Pride comes across as most celebratory, bold and unabashed, reflecting the city's rich LGBTQ+ history. The inclusion of famous drag performer, Heklina, and renowned pop artist, Troye Sivan, adds extra glitter and glamour to this portion.

Lastly, we get to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, a place where Pride proves to be still a very real battle. In sharp contrast to the other locations, Tuscaloosa projects a much more restrained and muted sense of Pride, yet equally potent in its emotional resonance. There is a palpable sense of daily struggle here, coupled with the passionate desire to live openly, freely, and lovingly.

Raymond Braun, as the film's host, navigates the viewer through the documentary. Braun is not just the presenter, he is also the audience, enthusiastically engaging with interviewees, asking valid questions, and providing a mechanism for viewers to relate to everyone’s experiences. Braun’s charm and thoughtful approach help make the film accessible to all, regardless of sexuality or identification.

State of Pride, while celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and its history, doesn't shy away from tackling more complicated issues such as intersectionality and inclusivity within this community. From a young, biracial, bisexual woman in Salt Lake City to a transgender man preparing for a Gay Pride parade in Tuscaloosa, the film openly shows that Pride isn’t defined by one set of circumstances, it’s a profoundly personal journey united by a shared sense of belonging and acceptance.

Additionally, a significant strength of the film lies in its historical recounting. The directors successfully trace back the roots of Pride to the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York City, where the LGBTQ+ community stood up against police brutality. The timelines and evolution of Pride, from a rebellion to a worldwide celebration, are vividly depicted throughout the documentary.

Aesthetically, the film is presented spectacularly with a vibrant, diverse palette reflecting the very core idea of the Pride movement. The directors also do an excellent job displaying the spirit of Pride parades, the explosion of colors, costumes, music, and the overwhelming sense of community bursting out of every frame.

In total, State of Pride is an important documentary, capturing an endearing and complex portrayal of the meaning of Pride in the contemporary LGBTQ+ community. It offers an illuminating vision of the perseverance and growth of the community, celebrated with lived emotional intensity, not merely an annual parade. This film’s appeal and importance extend beyond the LGBTQ+ community—it’s an exploration of the strength of the human spirit, a commitment to authenticity, and a proclamation of self-acceptance. Ultimately, State of Pride endorses the belief that love, no matter what form it takes, is always worth celebrating.