Personal Journeys, Universal Themes, and LGBTQIA+ Stories

Read Time:4 Minute, 1 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Queen Tut
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: TBA/2024
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Reem Morsi
Writer(s): Abdul Malik, Bryan Mark, Kaveh Mohebbi
Cast: Alexandra Billings, Ryan Ali, Ben Sanders, Danielle Bourgon, Khalid Karim, Kiriana Stanton, Dani Jazzar, Kendall Savage, Mostafa Shaker, Minh Ly
Language: English, Arabic with English subtitles
Where To Watch: available May 14, 2024; pre-order here www.cinephobiareleasing.com, www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Step into the vibrant and dynamic universe of drag and the LGBTQIA+ scene as QUEEN TUT unfurls a vivid canvas that masterfully dances between drama that will break your heart and delightful fun experiences (including song, dance, and comedy.) Here in this metropolis, we encounter Nabil (Ryan Ali,) a young Egyptian reshaping his destiny after a personal tragedy. The poignant void left by his mother’s passing propels him from the familiar streets of Cairo into Toronto’s shimmering nightlife.

While Toronto presents its share of challenges, it’s also where Nabil stumbles upon Malibu, brilliantly brought to life by Alexandra Billings. As the owner of a crucial multipurpose club, shelter, and icon landmark navigating urban upheavals, Malibu emerges not merely as a mentor but as Nabil’s guiding star, helping him on a voyage of self-exploration. An unfinished dress, echoing his mother’s dreams, serves as a symbolic thread, connecting Nabil’s past and present.

Lending a heartbeat to the film are the vibrant characters surrounding Malibu, who all come together to form the film’s heartbeat. Through vivacious stage acts, this ensemble keeps the spirit of their beloved matriarch pulsing vibrantly. Yet, amidst the rhythm and glitter, they face an uphill task: safeguarding their iconic LGBTQIA+ venue from the looming shadows of change. This is one of those times where the stars of the film wouldn’t be the stars without those around them.

In the backdrop, the narrative elegantly weaves intricate themes of Nabil’s bond to a cherished childhood relic and the tumultuous dance between age-old values and the progressive beats of today’s world. We’re offered a glimpse into Nabil’s world that he’s struggling to battle with, including his wealthy and controlling father, who is grappling with his son’s blossoming identity.

Billings offers many outstanding lines of dialogue in the film, delivered with heart, passion, and a stern tone. QUEEN TUT doesn’t just provide a powerful narrative of change, acceptance, and growth; it amplifies the voice of a community. The importance behind films like this expands beyond the celluloid walls it inhabits.

Of course, QUEEN TUT’s journey wasn’t without its twists. A curveball moment came when the Toronto Metamorphosis Church stepped back from offering its grounds for filming driven by the film’s LGBTQIA+ narrative, highlighting the biases lurking in seemingly progressive enclaves. Thankfully, the Eastminster United Church stepped up, epitomizing the essence of true allyship. This moment in production parallels the realities of a world that isn’t where it needs to be and needs to hear these stories more than ever before.

QUEEN TUT can best be described as a vivid coming-of-age story in some ways. Each scene radiates raw emotions set against the contrasting hues of societal norms. The film is a testament to transformation and rejuvenation. More than mere entertainment, it’s a testament to the formidable influence cinema wields over societal discourse. The film emerges as a celebration of individuality and a call to action for the importance of spotlighting marginalized tales in today’s cinematic landscape.

Although there are moments when the film has a made-for-TV feel, it rapidly pivots, painting a broader, immersive landscape for the viewer. This drama mix, sprinkled with fun elements, is message screaming, loud, proud, and at the top of its lungs for cinema to adopt a more forward-thinking lens. Indeed, QUEEN TUT is a feast for the eyes and food for the soul.

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[photo courtesy of CINEPHOBIA RELEASING, FAE PICTURES]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals’ extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I’m steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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