Not Quite That

"Not Quite That" will be screened at the Cinema Systers Film Festival Memorial Day Weekend 2024. It is a powerful and poignant film directed by Ali Grant that delves deep into the themes of identity, visibility, and survival through the lens of the protagonist, Sarah, a nice Jewish butch lesbian. Sarah, a nice 57 year old lesbian navigates her own sense of self and grapples with being seen for who she truly is, all while contending with genetic mutations and her experience as a breast cancer previvor.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way it examines Sarah's struggles with self-perception and being seen. Throughout the narrative, Sarah grapples with her own sense of identity, both in terms of her sexuality and her Jewish heritage. As a butch lesbian, Sarah often finds herself at odds with societal expectations of femininity, which leads to a sense of invisibility and alienation. This is compounded by the genetic mutations she carries, which further complicates her sense of self.

Sarah's experience as a breast cancer previvor adds another layer of complexity to her character development. The film does a remarkable job of depicting the physical and emotional toll of the illness, as well as the impact it has on Sarah's identity. Through her journey, we see Sarah wrestle with the decision of whether or not to undergo reconstructive breast surgery, a choice that is laden with implications for her sense of self and survival.

The director, Ali Grant, showcases a nuanced and sensitive approach to storytelling throughout the film. Grant masterfully weaves together Sarah's personal struggles with themes of identity and survival, creating a deeply moving and thought-provoking narrative. Key moments in the film, such as Sarah's interactions with her family and her reflections on her own body, highlight the director's skill in capturing the complexities of Sarah's journey.

The decision Sarah faces regarding reconstructive breast surgery serves as a pivotal moment in the film's exploration of identity and survival. As Sarah grapples with this choice, she is forced to confront her own perceptions of beauty, femininity, and self-worth. The film challenges viewers to consider the ways in which societal norms and expectations shape our understanding of ourselves and others, and how these factors intersect with notions of survival and resilience.

As the Cinema Systers Film Festival approaches, "Not Quite That" stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting and elevating films by lesbian filmmakers. The empowerment of viewing stories like Sarah's, told through the lens of those who have lived similar experiences, cannot be understated. By attending the festival and immersing oneself in the diverse and authentic narratives on display, viewers have the opportunity to not only enjoy cinematic brilliance but also to engage with stories that can illuminate, educate, and inspire.

In the end, "Not Quite That" is more than just a film; it is a testament to the power of visibility, identity, and resilience. Through Sarah's journey, viewers are invited to explore the complexities of their own identities, to find strength in their differences, and to embrace the power of self-acceptance. In a world that too often seeks to diminish and erase, "Not Quite That" stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the beauty that lies in embracing one's true self.

Cinema Systers Film Festival

We highly recommend attending the Cinema Systers Film Festival from May 23rd to May 26th to engage with this film and other works by lesbian filmmakers. It is sure to be a captivating and enlightening experience for all who attend.

Lesbian Cinema Lovers Spread the Word

Don't wait another minute to secure your tickets and make your reservations for this unforgettable celebration of diversity and creativity. Come and discover the magic of the Cinema Systers Film Festival and join us in an incredible journey of lesbian cinema, fun, and sisterhood! The Cinema Systers Lesbian Film Festival is held annually during Memorial Day Weekend.

If you like supporting lesbian filmmakers and enjoy lesbian movies, this event is for you. Buy your 2024 tickets today or you may have to wait until 2025 to join in the fun.  

For more information, visit here. Also, join our Facebook pages: @CinemaSystersFilmFestival and @CinemaSystersFilmFestivalFans .