Private Project

When Pride Becomes Prejudice

A short documentary immersing you in the intimacy and harsh reality of young LGBTQ+ artists, working in Los Angeles in the midst of the glamorous neighborhood of West Hollywood.

  • Nicolas Wendl
    Director
    From The Woods, Stupid Games, Elisa
  • Igor Corbé
    Writer
  • Nicolas Wendl
    Writer
  • Igor Corbé
    Producer
  • Nicolas Wendl
    Producer
  • Isaac J.
    Producer
  • Igor Corbé
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Austin Disney Santos
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Josh La Cour
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Michael 'Secret' Ortega
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Nicolas Wendl
    Editor
  • André Barros
    Composer
  • Aram Behshid
    Composer
  • Will Chant
    Composer
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Runtime:
    18 minutes 48 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 21, 2025
  • Production Budget:
    2,500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Nicolas Wendl

Nicolas Wendl is a Los Angeles-based filmmaker known for his work in narrative films, music videos, and commercials. Born in Munich, Germany, to a French mother and German father, he discovered his passion for filmmaking at age 11.
After moving to the U.S., Nicolas earned a BFA in Film Production from Chapman University's Dodge College, graduating summa cum laude in 2013. His award-winning student films, "How They Smiled" and "From The Woods," both starring Richard Burgi, gained recognition at major festivals
Wendl later directed music videos and commercials for high-profile clients including Disney, Microsoft, and AEG, with work featured on platforms like Billboard, MTV, and AXS. He also served as head videographer for venues like STAPLES Center and The Grammy Museum.
In 2015, his short drama "ELISA" premiered at the LA SHORTS Fest. His indie horror film "Stupid Games" (2024), which he directed and produced, is now streaming on Tubi, Prime Video, and The CW.
Known for his versatility and visual storytelling, Wendl continues to develop compelling content across genres. Learn more at wendlwood.com.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I believe storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have for shaping culture, challenging bias, and building empathy. Film and documentaries are not just entertainment; they are mirrors and a window. This documentary “When Pride Becomes Prejudice” shines a light on a well known community as well as a not so well known underbelly of this very community.
When Igor approached me with what had happened to him I knew that his story and injustice had to be shared and captured. A moment in time that turns out was more timely than anyone involved could have anticipated. We need a cinema that reflects the real world, and this documentary is the real world, the real harsh reality of the wold of go-go dancers and drag queens in the LGBTQIA+ community. Representation is not just about who’s on screen but who’s telling the story, and how it’s being told.
We are at a critical point on a cultural level where the community is more visible and also more vulnerable than ever. This documentary is not just inclusive, it’s urgent, it’s not just reflective it’s visionary. I hope this documentary inspirers pride, questions complacency and ignites dialogue.