No Straight Lines: The Rise of Queer Comics

Availability ended 11/21/2021 EDT
From Tom of Finland to Dykes to Watch Out For, comics and zines have been firmly embedded in queer culture since before Stonewall, through the AIDS epidemic, and continuing through today’s modern obsession with superheroes. But this deeply queer art form finally gets its true moment in this extensive documentary that explores over 70 years of history. Director Vivian Kleiman explores how the once underground world of queer comics grew to encompass the many mediums, styles, and inspirations that make this art form what it is today. Vividly translating these bright, imaginative, and triumphant images from the page to the screen, Kleiman makes a case for the beauty, artistic value, and historic legacy of five of the most influential artists in the queer comic space: Alison Bechdel (Fun Home), Rupert Kinnard (Cathartic Comics), Howard Cruse (Stuck Rubber Baby), Jen Camper (Juicy Mother), and Mary Wings (Come Out Comix). Even the most dedicated queer comic lover will be delighted to delve into the personal histories and inspirations behind Kinnard’s Brown Bomber, the first serialized queer Black character in comics, among others. This crisp film is rounded out with historical deep dives and intimate interviews with young up-and-coming artists inspired by the vanguard, and already influencing the next generation.

Credits

Directed by Vivian Kleiman

Produced by Vivian Kleiman
Justin Hall

Cast Alison Bechdel
Jennifer Camper
Howard Cruse
Rupert Kinnard
Mary Wings

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