The more I think about 2020, the more I realize the importance of finding inspiration and joy in the sings. A meal with a friend (safely at a distance) that I haven’t seen in a long time. A walk with Canela in the park to soak up the colours of the season. A workout for me because I deserve the time for myself. And of course the arts and film, which have always been such a source of emotional catharsis for me.
Inside Out, for those of you who don’t know, is Canada’s largest LGBTQ+ Film Festival. Obviously in the world we live in, the festival has had to pivot and has successfully prepared itself for one of the most successful years yet!
With so many incredible films and actors as a part of this year’s programing – click here – it’s hard to narrow down what I am most excited to watch.
One film, amid the hundreds of amazing ones showing this year, caught my attention.
Canadian film, TV and theater actor (and hottie) Thomas Duplessie celebrates his first lead role in a feature film with Jump, Darling, a comedic family drama about a rookie drag queen and his ailing grandmother. Jump, Darling will be previewed at the Inside Out LGBT Film Festival as a Special Presentation with a one night only drive-in screening at Ontario Place on Friday, October 2.
The story follows amateur drag queen Russell (Duplessie) who escapes to the country where he reunites with his ailing grandmother Margaret (played by Oscar and Emmy Award-winning actress Cloris Leachman) who is determined to avoid being admitted to the local nursing home. Directed by Philip J. Connell the film also features Jayne Eastwood, Linda Kash and legendary Toronto drag queens Tynomi Banks (Drag Race Canada), Miss Fiercalicious and Fay Slift. From Canadian distributor levelFilm, Jump, Darling is set for a wider theatrical release in 2021.
I mean…. can we talk about star studded fabulousness?!
As the Lead Sponsor of Inside Out for the last 12 years, RBC continues to recognize the power of the arts and show their commitment to diversity and inclusion. They continue to proudly support the community’s passion for LGBTQ+ cinema and bringing queer storytelling to life. A bank I’ve been with since birth, I couldn’t be more proud of their hard work to support the community.
NOT to mention, I know people involved in the festival which warms my heart – Dennis, I am so excited for you!!!
I HIGHLY recommend you head to the Inside Out website and check out this year’s lineup. Support the arts and support the community!
Join in on the social media conversation with us by following @InsideOutFestival on Instagram, @InsideOutTO on Twitter and by ‘Liking’ their Facebook Page. Share your favourite films and moments using #InsideOut30!
For more behind the scenes of this and other amazing brands I’m working with around the world, make sure to follow along with the #DoTheDaniel Instagram account. I’d love to have you join on the adventures.
Photos: Daniel Reyes & All Social Media accounts listed above
Don’t forget to be kind & laugh a little more this year
Mobile photos were taken with my Mobile Device of choice on the Rogers network.
*Please note that this may be a sponsored post and promotional consideration may have been offered by participating brands – our disclosure can be found at all times by clicking here.