By James Fanizza, January 2018 Issue
Saturday Church
Available on VOD Jan. 12 | 90 Minutes | Drama, Fantasy, Musical
Written and directed by Damon Cardasis, Saturday Church tells the story of a shy and effeminate 14-year-old boy named Ulysses (Luka Kain) who finds himself coping with new responsibilities after the death of his father. Living with his mother, younger brother and conservative aunt Rose (Regina Taylor), he is also struggling with questions about his gender identity. Ulysses’ journey takes a turn for the better when he encounters a vibrant transgender community, who takes him to “Saturday Church,” a program for LGBTQ youth. Ulysses manages to keep his two worlds separate – appeasing his aunt while discovering his passion for voguing and the NYC ball scene. When his double life is revealed, Ulysses must find the courage to be who he truly is despite the risk of losing those he cares about most. The legendary American author, playwright, performance artist and gender theorist Kate Bornstein makes an appearance as Joan.
Proud Mary
In Theaters Jan.12 | Action, Thriller
Taraji P. Henson is Proud Mary, a hit woman working for an organized crime family in Boston. Her life is completely turned around when a young boy crosses her path after a professional hit goes awry. Directed by Babak Najafi (London Has Fallen), this thriller promises a lot of action and suspense. Plus, it’s great to see Henson be the bad-ass we all know she is, alongside Billy Brown and Danny Glover, Margaret Avery and Xander Berkeley.