My Father The Queen (MFTQ) is a three-year project now ready to be told! The film explores the relationship between a closeted gay Black man and his daughter, Kelly. The relationship turns cold after Walter is exposed by his wife Carolyn. Kelly is desperate for validation and approval and compromises herself to get it. And Kelly has a secret she's keeping closeted too.
The two are forced together during the pandemic when Walter catches COVID and lists Kelly as his next of kin. The film spans the 70s, 80s, 90s, and current day.
“Highly Dramatic”
“Kelly’s conflict with her personal life and past comes across in a creative and textured fashion, as one understands her commitment to remain a self-sufficient woman and her adamancy towards keeping this status in her conscience. It is a rather humane story and it’s presented in a way that may be relatable for a wide audience through its highly dramatic value.”
-Blake Alm, Head of Development, Scriptmatix
Meet the Team
These are the amazing people who said, "YES" to this project!
Artistic Statement
|
| Lisa N. Alexander Writer, Director, Producer Dad—a son's first hero, a daughter's first love. Well, until
he's not or doesn't have the capacity to fulfill that role.
My Father The Queen is a dramatic story because if
I know anything, I know drama. I know how
daddy issues (regardless of your gender) can impact your whole life. |
I didn't want the characters to fall into the typical tropes I kept running across. The most common was that "men don't talk that much." The men I know, do. And I wasn't willing to let these beautiful and complex characters fall victim to stereotypes.
Because of the sensitive nature of the subject matter (domestic violence, drug use, sexual content), I'm choosing to use shadows and low-light shooting techniques to tell those parts of the story when it makes sense. I want to give the suggestion of violence without showing all the gory detail. That's not the film I want to make. I trust my audience to fill in the blanks.
If you grew up in the Black church, there are certain things that are common to us all. Music is one of them and this music is very much the backdrop to our lives. Using familiar gospel songs (or creating something similar) from the 70s will give insight into our character, Carolyn and hopefully bring back fond memories to the viewer. I'm using key songs that contradict what the view is seeing and elude to the faith that we're supposed to hold onto in times of trouble.
As a PK (preacher's kid) who married a PK and worked in ministry for lots of years, I KNOW the inner workings of the Black church—even across denominations. I was able to write realistic scenes and dialogue because I've seen and heard it all.
I've lived it.
“Compelling”
The most appealing or significant aspects of My Father the Queen are its unique character perspectives. The narrative presents a candid portrayal of Kelly, a woman navigating her encounter with the truth and the shattered pieces of her dysfunctional upbringing. Moreover, her shifting perspective when learning the reason behind her father’s estranging process provides hope through a kind message that holds forgiveness as a compelling centerpiece in the story.
-Atlanta Screenplay Awards
Representation Matters
“Great job creating a world in which people can feel represented whether it be a situation where they were rejected themselves due to their identity or they lost a loved one due to the cultural/familial complexities of another time.”
-Coverfly
“Emotionally Engaging”
“A really well-rendered and emotionally engaging series of moments.”
-Coverfly
Why We're Seeking Funding
Check out the FAQ section for how we'll use your donations!
Rewards
Oooo, we have some nice giveaways in return for your generous donation! Know that we all thank you in advance!
Thank you!
If you made it all the way to the end, thank you! I appreciate your support and belief in this project. I am certain that it will positively impact lives so thank you again! If you're able to donate, know that I will never forget your kindness! If you're unable to give right now...I promise it's okay! But if you share with your network of friends, family, and coworkers, that would be equally appreciated!
See you on the red carpet!
