Educational Media Reviews Online

Through family photos spanning over 100 years Amy Neil narrates her search for belonging in her extended family. Believing herself to be the only lesbian over the generations she is surprised and intrigued to learn from a cousin that her great grandmother, Nana, had a close friend that the family believed to be lesbian. Amy begins a search through family photos and family history to discover Nana’s relationship to a woman named Betty was strangely similar to that of her own and her lover, Lynda. Though there is never a definitive answer to the question of Nana’s sexual orientation, her lifetime as a feminist who crossed the boundaries imposed by society in the early part of the 20th century provides a strong connection to Amy as she demands her civil right to marry in the 21st century.

The photos allow an intimate look into the life of the Neil family and allow the audience to identify with the process of the narrator. Not all audience members who view this film will be gay or lesbian but most people have experienced searching for a balance between individuation and a sense of belonging within their families. Amy Neil has done a fine job illustrating her successful process for the LBGT community as well as others. She tells her story and that of her great grandmother with charm, humor and feeling that is at once engaging and honestly straightforward.

Just Me? is appropriate for junior high, high school and college libraries that support coursework involving women’s studies, gay and lesbian studies and psychology classes involving identity issues. School counseling offices may also find this film useful.