Queer Flicks on DVD
Gay porn DVDs are a dime a dozen, but what about quality queer films on DVD? Dee Pelling speaks with FQ Film's Simone Ulbaldi.
How did FQ conquer the queer film market in Australia?
It started with Latter Days, a romantic comedy, which was very successful in the States, but at the time we were not sure how the Australian market would take to it. Fortuitously there was a strong connection that revealed a very keen audience for queer film in Australia.
What factors influence the titles you chose?
We tend to look at international material with strong festival profile, which facilitates a buzz even before titles get here. It has become an enormous factor in whether titles end up being successful or not for us.
What is the FQ ratio of gay to lesbian consumers?
It definitely leans toward male buyers; we release at least a couple of lesbian titles each year though mysteriously they don’t seem to sell as well.
Do you feel like Australia is lagging behind in the queer film world?
Relative to the amount of films produced here annually, which is fairly small, we do ok. It would be great to see more Australian films produced period and any boost to the queer film market would be a wonderful thing.
Which FQ title would render us hysterical?
Another Gay Movie. It’s crass, inappropriate, raunchy, and hilarious – a queer take on American Pie.
And if we wanted a good sob?
A Year Without Love, an interesting piece about an isolated HIV sufferer trying to connect to people online. It’s dark, brooding and powerful.
Most popular for the boys?
Summer Storm, a perennial favourite.
And the discerning sapphic sister?
Loving Annabelle, famed for its attractive leads and the taboo nature of their relationship. It’s rumoured to work very well for the ladies one way or another.
If you were to chose your favourites what would they be?
Nina’s Heavenly Delights, a gorgeous, Scottish-lesbian-curry film (don’t try ordering that at a restaurant); and Boy Culture – beautifully shot, sexy cast and intelligent script.
What do you think the future holds for queer films?
It’s just going to get better and better.
You can find FQ films at The Bookshop, 207 Oxford St, Darlinghurst 2010 (02 9331 1103) and Hum Records, 55 Oxford St, Darlinghurst 2010 (02 9264 4870).