I’ve only encountered Ava DuVernay through her cinematic lens, yet I am continually amazed by her remarkable talent for telling the stories of those who have been marginalized, oppressed, or even lost their lives for living authentically. Through her work, she sheds light on issues of injustice, encourages introspection, and presents the truth in ways that resonate deeply with audiences. As a writer, producer, director, and independent film distributor, Ava DuVernay compels us to open our hearts and minds to the injustices that persist in our communities.
Next month, ARRAY Now, an independent film distribution company founded by Ava DuVernay, will debut Funny Boy, a film adaptation directed by Deepa Mehta based on the novel by the same name written by Canadian-Sri Lankan author Shyam Selvadurai. This film offers an intimate glimpse into a unique family and culture, set to air on Netflix on December 10th.
Selvadurai’s novel, published nearly 30 years ago, narrates the tale of a young boy named Arjie growing up in Sri Lanka, grappling with his identity as a gay boy—referred to as a “funny boy”—against the backdrop of a war-torn nation. The film is submitted for consideration in Canada’s international film category for the 2021 Oscars and holds the promise of hope for countless LGBTQ individuals around the globe.
This marks Ava DuVernay’s first foray into LGBTQ storytelling, providing crucial representation at a time when rights are increasingly under siege in the United States. I wonder what aspects of this film will empower many to embrace their true selves and help others recognize our shared humanity.
Reflecting on my own coming out experience, I remember the fear that accompanied it, much like many other queer individuals. I am fortunate to live in a relatively accepting society, even as I face uncertainty about the future of my rights and those of my loved ones. Today, 72 countries still criminalize homosexuality, and in 11 of those nations, same-sex relations can lead to death sentences. These regions include Iran, Northern Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Brunei, Mauritania, Pakistan, Qatar, and the UAE.
For many in the LGBTQ community, films serve as a welcoming space. When we see representations of our lives and hear our stories, it instills hope. Deepa Mehta’s film Fire, released in 1996, helped me understand my own feelings about my sexuality, even though I only discovered it in college. It was a groundbreaking film that showcased a lesbian relationship in Bollywood, paving the way for future narratives.
In 1996, when Fire was released, I was in the throes of questioning my own identity, and the journey to self-acceptance continues today. According to DoSomething.org, 92% of LGBTQ adults reported that they believed society had become more accepting over the past decade. However, we still have a significant journey ahead in fostering acceptance and understanding. Films like Funny Boy, along with the work of brave storytellers like Ava and Deepa, are instrumental in driving societal progress.
When films are crafted with care, they allow us to step into the shoes of others, if only for a brief moment. With the premiere of Funny Boy on December 10th on Netflix, we will not only gain insight into a South Asian family but also experience one individual’s coming-out journey, reminding us that everyone has a story worth sharing. As the credits roll, Ava encourages us to take an active role in addressing societal injustices, advocating for the rights of all individuals, not just those who mirror our own experiences.
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In summary, Ava DuVernay’s upcoming film Funny Boy serves as a powerful reminder of the shared human experience and the importance of representation in the arts. Through its depiction of a young boy’s journey of self-discovery amidst cultural turmoil, we are invited to reflect on our own narratives and embrace diversity. The film not only highlights the struggles of the LGBTQ community but also emphasizes our collective responsibility to advocate for equality and justice.