‘I Saw the TV Glow’ Director Jane Schoenbrun Says ‘Queer People Just Need to Be Living’ Under Trump Admin, Justice Smith Proclaims ‘We’re F—ed’

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When inquired about potential impacts of Trump administration’s assault on LGBTQ+ rights on their future projects, “I Saw the TV Glow” director Jane Schoenbrun acknowledged the significant political ramifications of the present situation. However, she emphasized that there are more pressing matters than merely reacting to these developments.

Schoenbrun expressed to Marc Malkin of EbMaster during the Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica, Calif., on Sunday that he hopes his work as a director won’t undergo significant changes. He added, “As an artist, it’s essential to sense the atmosphere around you and incorporate that into your creations. However, I believe it’s crucial for queer individuals to simply live, love, and be true to themselves. That, perhaps, is what truly matters rather than trying to alter our responses.

At the screening of their movie “I Saw the TV Glow,” Schoenbrun, who uses they/them pronouns and identifies as nonbinary, was present. This A24 production has been a standout in this year’s Indie Spirit nominations, sharing the top spot with Sean Baker’s “Anora” with six nods each. Among these recognitions, Justice Smith was nominated for best lead performance, while Schoenbrun received nominations for both directing and screenplay. The story revolves around a teenager named Owen (Smith), who develops a unique bond with another student (Jack Haven) after becoming fixated on a popular teen TV show.

During the filming of the movie, Smith felt it was unique, but wasn’t certain if audiences would grasp its deeper meaning, especially as a representation of transgender identity. A year after its debut at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, he is now moved by the many people who have reached out to him through direct messages, expressing how impactful this film has been for them and how often they’ve watched it.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I can’t help but feel deeply moved by the responses from young queer individuals who have connected with our movie. Time and again, I see people approaching me in tears and trembling. It’s evident that this film serves as a conduit for emotions that resonate deeply with me, recalling the impact of art that shaped my identity when I was growing up. It’s an extraordinary privilege to be able to create something that makes these individuals feel less isolated, reminding them that they are not alone in their experiences.

When questioned regarding the Trump administration’s assault on transgender rights, Smith expressed a grim outlook for the future, stating bluntly, “It looks bleak.

Schoenbrun was not hesitant in stating his concern that “corporate America seems to be growing more accepting of fascist tendencies, compared to the previous period, and there’s a general eagerness among people to collaborate in order to continue earning profits.

Despite Smith having doubts about others who may not resemble him sharing empathy for his lived experiences, he recognizes the significance of initiatives such as “I Saw the TV Glow” in bringing this understanding to light.

Every morning when I wake up, it feels like a powerful statement,” Smith clarified. “I strive for my own happiness as a Black, queer individual, openly expressing myself in public. The key is that others who share my identity witness me living life with joy and facing adversity, and they find the courage to do the same.

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2025-02-25 02:16