1 of 5 | Eve Lindley stars in “National Anthem.” Photo courtesy of LD Entertainment
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 14 (UPI) — National Anthem made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival and captivated audiences with its heartwarming portrayal of small-town drama and acceptance. This film embraces various lifestyles while celebrating the importance of love and compassion for all.
The story revolves around Dylan (Charlie Plummer), a hardworking construction worker in New Mexico, who assumes the responsibility of caring for his younger brother while their mother (Robyn Lively) indulges in late-night parties. Dylan’s life takes an unexpected turn when he accepts a job offer from Pepe (Rene Rosado).
Pepe introduces Dylan to the House of Splendor, a vibrant community of LGBTQ cowboys, cowgirls, and cowpeople. Within this community, Dylan finds himself drawn to Sky (Eve Lindley), Pepe’s girlfriend. Being in an open relationship, Pepe and Sky encourage Dylan to explore his feelings for Sky.
Initially reserved, Dylan gradually embraces the House of Splendor and their passion for drag performances and roping techniques. What sets National Anthem apart from other films is its genuine depiction of friendship without the need for activism. Dylan’s story revolves around his connection with Sky, a transgender woman, and his immersion in her unique community.
The House of Splendor is a remarkable representation of a specific LGBTQ community, consisting of individuals who identify as gay, trans, nonbinary, and polyamorous. They share a love for horses and rodeo stunts, creating a tight-knit and inclusive environment. As the film progresses, the House of Splendor warmly welcomes Dylan, teaching him about their traditions and allowing him to discover his own sense of belonging.
Ultimately, National Anthem emphasizes the importance of acceptance and understanding within the LGBTQ community. It goes beyond the binary distinctions of gay and straight, challenging the viewer to embrace people for who they are, regardless of their sexual orientation. Far from simply showcasing an LGBTQ experience, National Anthem invites audiences to connect with individuals on a personal level and embrace their uniqueness.
National Anthem premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival in March, and its powerful impact has continued to resonate with viewers. Stay tuned for more updates on its distribution following its Toronto screening.
Fred Topel, an entertainment writer based in Los Angeles, is a respected film critic and member of various prestigious associations, including the Television Critics Association and the Critics Choice Association. His insightful work can be found in Entertainment.
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