Butch Mystique 2003
Distributed by New Day Films, 190 Route 17M, P.O. Box 1084, Harriman, NY 10926; 888-367-9154 or 845-774-7051
Produced by Donna Rowell and Debra A. Wilson
Directed by Debra A. Wilson
DVD, color, 36 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Gay and Lesbian Studies, African American Studies
Date Entered: 03/02/2005
Reviewed by Warren Hawkes, Library, New York State Nurses AssociationThis short film provides a wonderful series of interview vignettes with African American women who identify themselves as ‘butch’. One interviewee speaks on the historical development and use of the term ‘butch’. But it is purely incidental to the content of the film. The women from varying backgrounds and different occupations all convey how they feel about being butch and what they perceive butch to be. Later portions of the interviews offer comments on their coming out process. They also speak on very personal issues such as vaginal penetration, public restroom use and their feelings about often times being perceived as Black men instead of women. Excellent technical production and editing further capture the uniqueness of these women as individuals. The DVD also contains several special features related to transgenderism, femmes and young butches - all terms which are mentioned during many of the interviews.
Awards
- Showtime Black Filmmaker Showcase
- Best Short - San Francisco International Lesbian & Gay Film Festival