Today’s discourse between people with different views is louder than ever. Even though we have obviously progressed as a society, intolerance seems to be the rule. It’s a difficult world to live in, especially if you have something to say. Sometimes, we even cover our mouths and refrain from speaking out loud because freedom of speech is now theoretical.
Above any difference we may have with our peers stand basic human rights. Those rights don’t follow political trends or views and don’t exactly follow the direction of those who claim to hold the absolute truth. They can’t be manipulated in order to tilt towards one side, and they are fundamental. Everyone has them, and yes, in that regard, I believe we have advanced as a society. The problem is that some people have decided to cancel them as rights and label them as “conditions” and, in some other cases, as diseases. Those people are fundamentally and absolutely wrong.
You may ask when I’m planning to address the film Light Up by writer/director Ryan Ashley Lowery. And yes, I realize it’s not usual for me to start reviews by making statements of that nature, but I believe in the power of opinion and speech. I think that some subjects need to be spoken about that a part of society has failed to recognize as worthy in the context of basic human rights. Films like Light Up aren’t activism juggernauts like so many documentaries are. Instead, we get a glimpse at something beyond defining as a lifestyle. It’s a whole universe where brave people decided to follow what something inside told them to be.
In Light Up, Lowery breaks the barriers and tells a universal story, that of queer men and transgender women. It only covers a minimum side of the diverse LGBTQ+ community that has found a voice in today’s times. Nevertheless, the testimonies he addresses are enough to offer you an intimate glance at a world that’s often been overshadowed by prejudice and hatred. I assure you that once you get to know who they are and their backdrop, you’ll be able to understand that the secret to a better world is to accept people for what they are and, most importantly, for what they want to be.
The film doesn’t need to indulge in highlighting the icons of the community Lowery is exploring. It’s more of an intimate conversation between people who feel comfortable and who have decided to explore their truth. The general spirit of the film (my take) is to explore healing as a courageous and decisive turning point. The past of those who are speaking on camera is ridden with incidents of bullying, sexual violence and precarious conditions. It’s beautiful to see them get the chance to address a real issue that has nothing to do with their current lifestyle but one that’s generally associated with the community they’re part of.
So, regardless of your views (or political stance), give yourself the chance to see Lowery’s Light Up. Perhaps it won’t change your mind if your beliefs are strongly cemented, but it will give you an idea of the community that some have labeled as monstrous, sick, and even satanic. You will see that there’s only good in their hearts, and nothing should be more normal than that. We all know “normalcy” is a fragile word, but it’s never too late to turn the page and see that there are other truths besides your own.
Film critic. Lover of all things horror. Member of the OFCS. RT Approved Critic.
