Movie Review: Unpacking “Lavender Men” – A Unique Perspective on Honest Abe’s Love Life
Introduction
In the realm of indie films, a bold new entry has emerged: “Lavender Men,” a daring exploration of President Abraham Lincoln’s potential same-sex romances. While it dives into a realm that has intrigued many — the speculation surrounding Lincoln’s sexuality — the execution proves to be both ambitious and somewhat meandering. In this review, we’ll dissect its merits and shortcomings while engaging with the themes it tackles.
Playing with History: The Premise
“Lavender Men” is not alone in its quest to explore Lincoln’s sexuality; other works, such as the documentary “Lover of Men” and the play “Oh, Mary!”, have similarly pondered the possibility of Lincoln’s bisexuality. However, this film seeks to mesh historical fantasy with a modern narrative, crafting a unique lens through which audiences can view the complexities of queer identity — particularly in relation to contemporary Grindr culture and self-discovery.
A Dreamy But Disjointed Narrative
Starring and co-written by Roger Q. Mason, the film’s protagonist, Taffeta, is a stage manager in a Lincoln biographical play. As Taffeta navigates her own romantic disappointments and struggles with body image, she becomes entwined in an imaginative journey that transports her back to the 1860s. Unfortunately, the film’s dual identity as both a play and a film compromises its effectiveness; it oscillates awkwardly between being theatrical and genuine, ultimately lacking the surreal quality that could have elevated its storytelling.
The Heart of the Matter: Taffeta’s Journey
Taffeta, characterized poignantly as half “black Irish” and half-Filipino, grapples with rejection while also acting as an astute commentator on Lincoln’s life. The film brings to the forefront the struggles of being marginalized, as she experiences body image issues and misidentification in a society that often seeks to erase her existence. Taffeta’s character becomes the voice of a generation seeking recognition and representation.
One notable aspect of Taffeta’s character is her crush on Elmer Ellsworth, portrayed as the affectionate counterpart to Lincoln (Pete Ploszek). The playful flirtation and resulting psychological turmoil between the three characters provide a crude yet fascinating tableau that illuminates the struggles of love during tumultuous times.
Engaging with History and Identity
Throughout “Lavender Men,” Taffeta argues for a form of “revisionist history,” asserting that everyone has the right to reshape historical narratives, especially those historically marginalized. This convoluted battle for identity in both historical and contemporary contexts aims to prompt audiences to reflect critically on how we perceive figures like Lincoln today.
Historical figures fill the narrative, yet liberties are taken with facts and relationships, which may frustrate purists. The overarching message becomes more compelling than the particulars, leading to a theatrical experience that, while lacking in factual fidelity, allows creative freedom.
Visual Aesthetics and Direction
Directed by Lovell Holder, the film attempts to maximize its limited budget by utilizing various staging techniques. Despite this effort, “Lavender Men” often falls into the trap of being a "filmed play," limiting its potential to captivate viewers’ imaginations as a cinematic piece. The dialogue is sometimes poignant and sharp, offering glimpses of the depth of Taffeta’s emotional struggles and insights; yet, it frequently introduces more ideas than it resolves, creating an uneven rhythm.
Conclusions: A Play Better Than a Film?
Ultimately, “Lavender Men” raises interesting questions about identity, love, and history but falters in its execution as a film. It may resonate more effectively in a theatrical, rather than cinematic context. For audiences keen on revisiting Lincoln through a playful yet critical queer lens, this film may provide a spark of intrigue, if not a fully realized exploration.
Final Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2 out of 5 stars)
Cast: Roger Q. Mason, Pete Ploszek, Alex Esola, Ted Rooney, Phillipe Bowgen, Gillian Williams, Mia Ellis
Credits: Directed by Lovell Holder, written by Roger Q. Mason and Lovell Holder
Running Time: 1 hour, 42 minutes
Rating: Unrated, includes sexual situations and profanity
For those interested in delving deeper into the nuances of Lincoln’s life, we encourage exploring the documentary “Lover of Men” and the acclaimed play “Oh, Mary!” for a rounded perspective.
