GLBT films from Islamic countries are
in vogue at the Berlin Film Festival this year. Audiences there have
screened three such films. The films tackle difficult subjects for
Muslims and don't shy away from the taboo.
A Jihad For Love explores the
lives of gay and lesbian Muslims from around the world. The
documentary includes interviews with gay and lesbian Muslims from 12
countries. The film, barred in South Africa, is the work of Indian
director Parvez Sharma.
Sharma's Berlin Film Festival blog
gives compelling reasons for the making of the film. Voices from
around the globe reach out to him to tell their stories. A 17 year
old boy writes, “...in November 2007 my parents found out about my
homosexuality and my third world war started. I was kept isolated
during a month, very much confined to my home with no means of
communication with the outside world whatsoever. I was given the
ultimatum to either cure my self right away or be murdered and
eliminated by my 30 year old brother/stoned to death by my
father....Please Parvez, I must see your documentary for I can no
longer live and love with the knowledge that I am displeasing Allah.”
Another documentary by director Dondu
Kilic The Other Side of Istanbul looks at homosexual
discrimination in Turkey's capital.
Finally, director Tanaz Eshaghian looks
at the lives of Iranian men undergoing sex reassignment in Be Like
Others.
The Berlin Film Festival, also called
Berlinale, commands the largest film audience in the world.
Berlinale screens through February 17, 2008.
Hollywood star Colin Farrell is ready
to give away his brother – to another man. Farrell plans to be his
brother's best man in a gay marriage ceremony this spring, reports
the National Enquirer.
The Irish hunk will stand beside his
sibling Eamonn when he marries his long-term partner Steven Mannion.
The pair are marrying in Massachusetts, the only state that
recognizes gay marriage.
Colin reportedly helped his brother
choose an engagement ring and will pick up the tab for the wedding.
Gay Entertainment Report is a feature
of On Top Magazine and can be reached at ontopmag@ontopmag.com