© Agile Films
Based on their 2021 Bafta-nominated short of the same name, Sam H. Freeman and Ng Choon Ping’s debut feature, “Femme,” is a thrilling and thought-provoking film that delves deep into the themes of trauma, identity, and retribution through the eyes of a queer character who refuses to be silenced or erased, even after having faced immense tragedy.
Directed by: Sam H. Freeman, Ng Choon Ping
Year: 2023
Country: UK
Length: 99 minutes
At the heart of this gripping narrative is Nathan Stewart-Jarrett, delivering a remarkable and fearless portrayal of Jules, a London drag performer whose life is irrevocably altered by a brutal hate crime. This horrific incident takes a heavy toll on Jules’ mental well-being, leaving him with deep traumas. Months later, he embarks on a calculated mission to seek revenge against his assailant, played with conviction by George MacKay, after a chance encounter at a gay sauna.
Nathan Stewart-Jarrett’s performance as Jules is a tour de force, embodying the multifaceted identity of this queer character with authenticity. He perfectly oscillates between the fierce persona of his drag queen alter ego, Aphrodite Banks, captivating the audience during electrifying performance sequences, and the raw vulnerability and fear that accompany life as a Black queer individual in a society filled with queerphobia.
George MacKay’s portrayal of Preston, the conflicted and closeted aggressor, is equally captivating. MacKay skillfully navigates Preston’s complex psyche, torn between his violent past and an unexpected attraction to Jules. As the film progresses, Mackay also manages to add a layer of satire to his character, as he tries to keep his life as a hypermasculine straight man and the ‘down-low’ love interest of Jules, making for a hilariously relatable film, despite all the intensity, at times for many queer people who have ever encountered someone like this. The palpable and unsettling chemistry between the two actors gives rise to a riveting, twisted relationship that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the film.
The film is an unflinchingly intense and violent cinematic experience, offering a stark and unvarnished depiction of the perils faced by openly queer individuals, a necessary portrait in today’s socio-political climate, where queer people are increasingly targeted for their identity. The film fearlessly confronts the graphic and harrowing consequences of both external and internalized homophobia and transphobia. Moreover, it boldly challenges preconceived notions of masculinity and femininity, highlighting their dual nature as sources of empowerment and oppression, depending on the context and individual.
This audacious film prompts profound contemplation on the concepts of justice and forgiveness, raising questions about whether revenge can ever truly mend the wounds of trauma.
“Femme” is a dark and uncompromising queer revenge saga that shines a spotlight on the pervasive discrimination endured by many members of the queer community, particularly those who defy Western norms regarding gender identity and performance. The film marks a daring and original debut for directors Sam H. Freeman and Ng Choon Ping, who present a bold vision and unwavering commitment to storytelling. Femme is an impactful work that makes its audience think about the vital issues it bravely addresses. Its unapologetic exploration of the queer experience in contemporary society reminds viewers of the ongoing struggle for acceptance and justice that queer people have to deal with.
“Femme” screened at the 2023 Leiden International Film Festival as part of the festival’s First Feature Competition
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