DTF?

WHAT IS UP, FESTIVAL PROGRAMMERS!!

Picture this: You’re one of six finalists in the prestigious Vancouver short film competition, Crazy 8s. You're at a table read of your coming-of-age romcom. The first piece of feedback is, “I feel alienated. As a straight man, I don’t think this story is for me.”
If you’re me, you’re thinking, "that’s not ideal, but it’s okay! The story isn’t for him." The two queer men in the room voice their connection to the story. You think, "maybe that’s all that matters." Then, other folks speak up - “That sex montage was too much,” “I’m not sure why I should care about this.” The discussion gets heated.

Afterwards, the executive producer of Crazy 8s says, “None of the scripts so far have created that much discussion! That’s a good sign!” You agree wholeheartedly… but you didn’t write a controversial film. Romcoms are, by design, a comfortable and familiar formula. So why is this so divisive? Then, you realize – it’s because the leads are gay.

I’m Jess McLeod, director of DTF? This is my directorial debut. I’ve been an actor for 20 years, and a writer/producer for 10. I am non-binary and queer. I love romcoms, despite rarely seeing my own experience reflected in them. I connect to the human need to love and be loved. I don’t feel alienated watching Trainwreck, which begins with a montage of hetero sex.

I’m grateful for that table read. It reminded me that, unfortunately, many people are still uncomfortable with queer love. It’s not their fault. Most of us weren’t exposed to it. When we initially pitched this film, I didn’t think of it as groundbreaking. I thought it was a fun, nuanced comedy about queer male dating culture. I still do, but now I know – it’s more than that. This film is necessary. Not just for gay people. We have to normalize queer love.

Our producing team is entirely LGBTQIA+. I am so proud to say the vibes on set were immaculate. We were purposeful about who we brought onto our crew. Queer people have stories to tell. Those stories are both specific, and universal. It’s the year of our lord, 2024. Even The Pope is rocking with the gays. DTF? is a deceptively simple love story about two people starting over – who happen to be queer.

We're all DTF. Down To Fall (in love). - Jess <3