LGBTQ+ film “Two Eyes” to be shown in Montclair on Friday

There is nothing quite like enjoying a heartfelt movie on a cozy fall night. With the crisp air flowing outside and a touching film coming to life on the screen, it honestly seems like this time of year was made for cinema. If you are looking for a great October night out featuring a LGBTQ+ film that will give you all the feels, be sure to mark this upcoming event on your calendar.

On Oct. 9, the Montclair Public Library will host a screening of the acclaimed film Two Eyes at 7 p.m. The LGBTQ+ advocacy organization Out Montclair and the Newark LGBTQ Center have teamed up to create this community screening.

The film is set to be a deeply emotional and poignant experience. The story focuses on three different queer stories occurring at different points in time across the western United States. The film also features several Native American characters and explores the concept of Two-Spirit people, a term used by some Indigenous communities to describe individuals whose identities encompass a unique gender expression, which embodies both masculine and feminine energy. 

The film’s themes seem like a particularly fitting choice for October, as Indigenous Peoples’ Day takes place on Oct 12. The screening offers an opportunity to experience a story that brings together themes of queerness, Indigenous identity, history and the American West.

The film fits perfectly with National Coming Out Day and what the day represents. It is a celebration of embracing and owning your sexuality. This is especially meaningful in a film that has a storyline set in 1868, which follows a lawyer-turned-painter named Dihlon as he embarks on a journey that unexpectedly helps him find his true sexuality.

Seeing a character from a time when diverse expressions of sexuality were more heavily restricted embrace a different sexual identity can serve as a very powerful reminder of the beauty that comes with living authentically, despite the judgment and negative opinions that can come from society.

Denise Hinds, president of the Newark LGBTQ Center, emphasized in an email how the event goes beyond simply being another community movie night. “At a time when LGBTQIA+ and [I]ndigenous stories are too often marginalized we believe it is more important than ever to ensure these stories continue to be seen heard and celebrated. Our hope is that audiences will leave not only moved by the film but also inspired to support” the organizations “doing the critical work of providing direct services, advocacy and community for LGBTQIA+ people in our neighborhoods. “

Madeline Gale from Out Montclair also shared in an email about the importance of the screening. “At a time when LGBTQIA+ people, especially transgender and nonbinary people, continue to face attacks on our rights, safety, and dignity, we must support one another and create spaces where our stories can be seen and heard. We find the strength to move through these struggles through community, connection, and solidarity. Films like Two Eyes help us explore our shared experiences, learn from history, and imagine a more accepting future.”

In addition to the in-person event, those who prefer watching from the comfort of their own homes will also have the opportunity to participate. From Oct. 10 to 18, viewers can stream Two Eyes on their device for a suggested $10 donation.