Bonus Material on the DVD will include four behind-the-scenes featurettes and deleted scenes. Order today!

The post More Beautiful for Having Been Broken first appeared on Lesbian.com.

This opposites-attract, edge-of-your-seat lesbian romance is a glossy, sexy and fun romantic drama guaranteed to earn a fresh array of fans for veteran writer-director Nicole Conn (More Beautiful for Having Been Broken, Elena Undone, Claire of the Moon)

“The sexiest lesbian film of 2012.” — Curve Magazine

“Sizzling, romantic drama.” — SheWired.com

“A fresh, empowering chic flick that starts out with natural humor and evolves into an erotic journey… Yes, there is lot of sex, but it didn’t feel gratuitous. It felt natural, a tough accomplishment for a film about essentially one woman’s affair with a call girl.” — TAGG Magazine

“(Features) a bold, beautiful, unleashed performance by Niven and a star turn from drop dead gorgeous Clark.” – Frameline, San Francisco LGBT Film Festival

“Conn’s film upends traditional prejudices regarding a woman’s age, beauty and sexuality through depicting tender and joyous lovemaking.” – BeyondChron.com

“Raw, moving, and often humorous.” – OUTFEST, Los Angeles LGBT Film Festival

“The performances of Clark and Niven add so much depth and humanity, pain and bliss.” – My LGBT Plus

“Hugely entertaining… and it’s HOT. The leads have fantastic chemistry.” – Birds on the Blog.com

“A strong supporting cast and astonishing performances by the film’s central leads will enthrall audiences.” – Philadelphia Q Fest

The post A Perfect Ending first appeared on Lesbian.com.

When fate brings Peyton, an out lesbian writer into the life of Elena, a straight ,woman and wife of a pastor, friendship transforms swiftly from a crush into a torrid extramarital affair. Elena can barely begin to rationalize the nature and magnitude of her desires, which are complicated by her dedication to her son, Nash, and her sense of responsibility to her marriage. As their relationship evolves into love,  Elena confronts the choice of leaving Barry and fracturing the family or ending it with Peyton and continuing to live a lie. But the decision may be moot. As Peyton risks more of her heart, her fear of breaking it causes her to step away and Elena faces the looming challenge of convincing Peyton that they were meant to be.

From acclaimed writer/director Nicole Conn (More Beautiful For Having Been Broken) and starring Necar Zadegan (TV’s NCIS: New Orleans), Thunderbird Dinwiddie (The Aerialist, TV’s The Walking Dead) and Gary Weeks (Instant Family), celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the seminal romance, ELENA UNDONE, available now on DVD.

“Unabashedly focused on hot romance.” – Variety

“Zadegan and Dinwiddie are electric together!” – The Philadelphia Inquirer

“– Dinwiddie and Zedagan have an on-screen chemistry many actors in lesbian films lack and it’s a pleasure to watch.” – About.com

“Fantastic, nuanced performances. . . [Zadegan’s and Dinwiddie’s] scenes together sparkle and shine with chemistry and life . . . fantastic and enormously compelling!” – AfterEllen.com

“As well as a compelling storyline, ELENA UNDONE has some hot sex scenes and the notoriety of containing the longest on-screen kiss in cinematic history.” – The Seattle Lesbian

“Sexy and smart!” – Gay Lesbian Directory

“Enchanting homage to the power of love.” – Philadelphia Q Fest “A well-made film, from acting to editing.” – CherryGrrl.com

“The chemistry between Necar Zedegan and Traci Dinwiddie cements ELENA UNDONE as the lesbian film of the festival.” – Colorado Springs Independent

“Combines the enchantment of falling in love for the first time with the reality and responsibilities of long-term commitments.” – Greg in Hollywood

“The next big lesbian movie!” – Bound

“An amazing, heartfelt, romantic film that… should be ranked with some of the best romance films of all time.” —FILM ADVENTURES

AWARD WINNER!
Best Feature Film: Fresno REEL Pride Film Festival
Audience Favorite Award, Best Women’s Feature Film: Tampa International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival

The post Elena Undone first appeared on Lesbian.com.

As the two debate, Noel also falls under Claire’s charms, but she is wary, having recently suffered a disastrous breakup. As each faces her fears, an intricate — and sensual — “dance” takes place between them, as they move apart, then come closer and closer.

Set in the lush Pacific Northwest, “Claire of the Moon” tells a timeless story of a woman’s struggle as she awakens to new possibilities for love and intimacy.

The post Claire of the Moon first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Stunning model Melissa Hellman stars as tall and handsome writer Byron with the equally hot Johanna Nemeth as the sculptress Cynara. Like a lesbian “Wuthering Heights,” “Cynara: Poetry in Motion” plays out a glorious lesbian romance full of brilliant chemistry, hot love scenes and glossy production values. Erotic and atmospheric, this 19th Century period drama portrays a hot girl meets girl love story amidst the moody surroundings of the Pacific Northwest.

“Stunningly erotic.” — Los Angeles Times

“The love scene at the end of the film is one of the best ever shot … this is a MUST-HAVE.” — LezLoveVideo.com

“Gorgeous … sensuous … tantalizing.” — Curve Magazine

NOTE: This 40-minute erotic drama is intended for mature audiences.

The post Cynara: Poetry in Motion first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Nicole Pacent on set of of SHE4ME filming at the Andaz West Hollywood
(Photo by Rodney Bursiel)

BY NATASIA LANGFELDER
Lesbian.com

The talented Nicole Pacent is an actress, singer and model. She’s also one of the few out bisexual women in Hollywood. Her fans know her best from the web series, “Anyone But Me,” in which she portrayed the lovable Aster. Now, she’s back and starring in the SHE4ME PSA for marriage equality alongside actress Gabrielle Christian.

As a member of the LGBT community, Nicole has a vested interest in furthering equality. She sat down with Lesbian.com to discuss the behind-the-scenes fun on the SHE4ME set and her advice to fans on how to navigate the world as a bisexual person.

How did you first hear of the SHE4ME PSA and why did you choose to get involved with this project?

Well, really, I was sort of there when it was being conceived. I heard about it from my manager Sue Melke. She introduced me to Nicole Conn because they had been speaking about it and collaborating.

Nicole wanted to bring me on board as the bride and I just jumped on board. From there, the next thing we had to do was find another bride. It really was a meeting of minds. I decided to do it because it’s a cause I’m very passionate about, obviously, and I like Nicole Conn’s aesthetic.

What was it like working with director Nicole Conn?

Nicole is really clear on what she wants. It’s always great to work with a director who is that way, that way you can give them what they want. It’s refreshing.

Did you know Gabrielle Christian was going to play the other bride?

Sue forwarded me some ideas on who would be playing the second bride. When they settled on Gaby, it was really cool because we had sort of been orbiting in the same circle for so long, but we had never met or worked together. So we finally got to meet. She is such a doll.

Judging from the blooper reel, there was a lot of fun on the set. Can you dish on any of the behind the scenes hijinks?

It was all shot in one day! There were so many moving parts that everything was going on at once. There was no time for anything really crazy like would happen on a longer shoot. But the atmosphere was very jovial the whole time and during the wedding scene people just started doing funny dances. Everyone was just really happy to be there and have fun with each other.

You’ve been out as a bisexual woman for most of your career. How do you think that’s affected your journey?

It has affected it vastly. I can’t imagine how the journey would be different in terms of being more positive or negative thus far. I really don’t know. I’m glad I did it. In terms of the feedback, I’ve never gotten flack for it as far as I know. Everyone has been really accepting both within the gay community and outside of it. It’s really been wonderful.

Part of Aster’s popularity was because I was out to the fan base. I got a lot more projects out of that. I don’t know how things would have been different. It shaped it in ways I’m aware of and not aware of. But I’ve never doubted it and I’ve never second guessed it.

What would tell young fans who may be struggling with their bisexuality?

There are challenges that bisexuals face that you don’t get if you’re straight or gay. People don’t have enough information. And I’ve experienced that in my life. But in terms of my experience with work it hasn’t been a problem so far, which is awesome.

People message me about this all the time and it’s really hard because I wish I had time to respond to all of them. I would say there’s no blanket anecdote in terms of coming out for everybody. It’s different for everyone based on family situations or the country you live in. I can’t say come out and be who you are because it’s not that easy in many environments.

But that said, the more that you are able to be yourself and accept yourself as who you are, not only the happier you’re going to be, but the less you are just going keep hiding for your whole life. Whether they’re a total nerd or a cheerleader or if you have a non-traditional sexuality, if you spend your whole life fighting that, you’ll get tired after a while. It wears on you. It’s generally just a better path to go down to accept who you are and trust you’ll find your way. I really do believe that.

Finding spaces that are more accepting and attending support groups are always really good ideas. Connecting with other people, making sure you don’t feel alone. Those things are paramount. For me, it was so important to be surrounded by the bisexual and gay community even before I came out.

It’s so cliche, I know! But the older I get I have to tell you that’s what it’s all about. The constant struggle of having to let go of the idea that I have to be something other than what I am. It’s not worth it. It’s a losing battle. Just be who you are!

“South of Nowhere” ended in 2008 and many fans were able to dry their tears by moving onto “Anyone But Me.” In fact, one of the YouTube comments on the video is “Aster + Spencer = Perfection.” Do you think Spencer and Aster would have ever hooked up?

That’s so funny! I think from Aster’s point of view, she was so young. Vivian was her second girlfriend, but like first real love. Spencer and Aster could definitely have slept together maybe later in life.

Tell us about your favorite interaction with a fan.

Oh man, there are so many, especially because I’m now friends with some fans as a result. I remember this one instance quite well. A couple years back, before “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was repealed, there a woman who messaged me and came out to me. She couldn’t tell anyone but me. She wasn’t out to anyone else. But she had seen “Anyone But Me” and she felt like I provided a safe space where she could be herself. Her job was defending our country and she couldn’t come out. That was pretty incredible. I have to say that messages like that where people have come out because of “Anyone But Me” or because I’m out about my sexuality or anything like that is endlessly inspiring to me and sort of unbelievable.

If you could star in a remake of any movie, which movie would you choose?

“Star Wars!” There’s not even a question in my mind. I could die happy if I was in that.

I would want to be Princess Leia 110 percent. She’s such an awesome female character. I grew up playing Princess Leia on the playground. I love that time period, too, episodes 4-6, of course!

In my adult years, I’ve been able to look back at it and appreciate it on so many other levels, including how strong Leia is as a female character. She is tough and she’s sarcastic and in charge and not submissive at all. She’s just feisty and fun with a dry sense of humor. She’s the type of character I would love to play.

Where can your fans find you?

There are a couple things in the works. There’s a short film that I did that’s going to be released mid-April, “It’s a Cold Cold Night.” I play a pretty funny, wacko character my fans will love.

And, if you are in Los Angeles, you can see me in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “All’s Well That Ends Well” at my theater company. Check my Twitter or Facebook, if you want to know more.

The post Nicole Pacent: The SHE4ME bride with the heart of Princess Leia first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Gabrielle Christian shot to fame in 2005 when she took the role of sweet, innocent and gay Spencer Carlin in “South of Nowhere.” As Spencer discovered herself and fell in love with her best friend, Ashley, the LGBT community fell in love with her.

Gabrielle, who goes by Gaby, wrote a love song for her on-screen paramour, Mandy Musgrave, called “Kissing Mandy” and frequently guest stars in queer webseries on Tello. Fans today can find her starring in the marriage equality PSA, SHE4ME alongside actress Nicole Pacent.

How did you hear about SHE4ME and why did you decide to get involved with this PSA?

I’ve been dying to work with Nicole Conn for years, and when I came across Sue Melke [SHE4ME producer] at a screening a few weeks before the SHE4ME shoot it was just perfect timing. I’ve also almost crossed paths with Nicole Pacent a few times and am so grateful we finally connected!

In 2009, you were married to your longtime sweetheart, Justin Mentzer. Has being a married person helped you see the importance of marriage equality?

Being married is more than just two people who love each other; it allows us to do so many other legal things that unmarried people aren’t able to do — like visit our partner’s hospital room, share taxes and insurance, etc. Everyone should have the right to be able to make these choices.

What was the best part of your wedding (besides the groom!)?

All of my family and friends who were by our side.

The SHE4ME PSA packs a ton of emotion into four minutes of screen time. And, because it’s set to music, you had to convey all that emotion without words. How did that affect your acting process?

Well, Jen Foster’s beautiful song was playing the entire time we were shooting so that definitely helped! I’ve watched the music video a few times now and every time I do, I come to tears. [Ed. note — so did everyone at Lesbian.com!]

What was your favorite behind-the-scenes moment during filming?

Becoming friends with Nicole Pacent — she’s such a talent, treasure and wonderful soul.

In the video, we learn that you look amazing in a tux! Would you ever consider rocking pants on the red carpet?

Ha! I think I have worn black slacks before and, heck yeah, I would do it again, Talk about being comfortable. Let’s get rid of the damn heels while we’re at it,

Most of your fan base knows you as Spencer Carlin from “South of Nowhere.” Since that show you’ve gone on to star in “Girltrash” and “3way” and you even have another queer movie in the works. Do you think you get typecast as a queer character or has it just been a natural progression?

I’ve had to be a little more specific in what I have chosen to do, but all of the gay roles I have played have meant something to me. And I think they are all so different in their own beautiful way.

Queer fans tend to be extremely loyal. Do you still hear from “South of Nowhere” fans?

Oh, God yes. They are my rock and what keeps me motivated and confident. I am so grateful to social media for connecting us with one another.

Tell us about the best piece of fan mail that you’ve ever received.

I can’t narrow it down to just one. I’ve had quite a few young girls and boys tell me that “South of Nowhere” saved their life. I don’t think any kind of letter can get better than that.

Who is a better kisser, SHE4ME co-star Nicole Pacent or “South of Nowhere” co-star Mandy Musgrave?

Oh, man — there is no comparison there. They are both amazing. I’m lucky to have been paired up with such beauties, inside and out.

If you could co-star in a movie with any actress, who would you choose?

Cate Blanchett or Kate Winslet. Kate French again? Kates tend to be the bomb.

As a married person, what are you most likely to be doing on a Friday night?

Drinking a huge class of red wine at home whilst watching a movie with dog and hubby.

Sounds like a great night! Watch Gaby in the SHE4ME PSA or catch her on Twitter to stay up-to-date on her upcoming projects.

The post Gaby Christian talks marriage equality, kissing girls, perfect Friday night first appeared on Lesbian.com.

SHE4ME, the marriage equality PSA, has been officially selected to screen at IMMAGINARIA, A day of independent lesbian movies (Rebels, Lesbians, Eccentrics…”) at the International Women’s Film Festival in Roma, Italy, on May 31.

The organizers of the event SCREENING THE GIRLS, Lista Lesbica Italiana (LLI) and Fuori Salone delle Lesbiche/Lesbians Outhall n.4, were thrilled to include SHE4ME directed by the multiple award-winning Nicole Conn and set to the Jen Foster song “She”, in the festival.

IMMAGINARIA have been supporters of Nicole Conn since her groundbreaking 1992 film “Claire of the Moon”, which was screened in Bologna. A decade later Conn’s “A Perfect Ending” (starring SHE4ME’s Barbara Niven) was selected and screened at the IMMAGINARIA festival in Milano.

The Marriage Equality USA (MEUSA) production is a five+ minute video starring Nicole Pacent, Mike C. Manning, Gabrielle Christian, and Barbara Niven. The video features several other cameos by actresses who have portrayed seminal lesbian roles and introduces two new young talents, dancer Jolie Ponchetti and actress Hazel Sepenuk.

The video opens up to a beautiful wedding, where viewers witness a celebration of love between family, friends and guests. The viewers are taken on a journey through exquisite flashbacks of the bride and her best friend in their youth. We witness an underlying tension during the present day wedding before being presented with an endearing plot twist. The twist has been designed to help transmit a hopeful message of love and understanding to a mainstream audience, thinking of those with opinions somewhere near neutral on gay marriage.

SHE4ME is all about love. About how underneath it all, Love is Love and, to coin a lyric from the song SHE “there is nothing to be afraid of.” This video shows a face that people need to see, the face of unconditional love. With the help of YouTube and hundreds of volunteers, partner organizations, SHE4ME is expected to reach millions of people all around the globe, especially in places where LGBT people are not accepted.

MEUSA, the largest grassroots marriage equality organization in the United States, partnered with Fosterchild Records and Melke Pty Ltd to produce this social project.

Brian Silva, Executive Director for Marriage Equality USA says: “Music and video projects like this have the power to impact millions of viewers by showing the love and commitment that is celebrated and protected by passing civil marriage equality for LGBTQ families.”

The post SHE4ME marriage equality video to screen at lesbian film festival first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Three inseparable best friends, Nicole, Mike and Gabby grew up together in West Hollywood, California. Two of them will marry one another today. You’re invited to witness how it all turns out.

Starring Nicole Pacent, Mike C. Manning and Gabrielle Christian. Directed by Nicole Conn.

Featuring Jen Foster’s “She.”

Like what you see? Become a follower on YouTube, visit She4ME.org, or share this link with your friends.

#she4me #loveislove #equality

The post She4ME: Marriage equality PSA about to go viral first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Ready to go! (Photo courtesy Dana Brenklin)

BY DANA BRENKLIN
Lesbian.com

As I begin this story, let me tell you, I am not a cyclist. I know no more about a bicycle than peddling, stopping and starting.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let me begin. I host a lesbian-centric online radio show and after two successful interviews with two awesome women and supporters of the show requesting her, I thought I’d try soliciting actress Traci Dinwiddie. Well, once we began corresponding she invited me to ride with a team (T-Bugs) of people for AIDS/LifeCycle 2014, called Team Goodisness.

I’ve always wanted to be sort of a fitness guru or maybe just get in great physical shape but that wasn’t in the cards for me as a child or even as an adult up until now. I was something of a sickly child and adult, among other things, however, I am not anymore. So, I researched this ride and saw how passionate Traci was about what she was doing and after much thought and anticipation, I said yes.

For years I’ve said that I was going to be in the best shape of my life by the time I reached the age of 40. I claimed it, just as I claimed the year 2013 to be my year, just as I’ve claimed everything in my life, as I walk by faith, not by sight. With that claiming, I don’t believe it is in anyway a coincidence that I am involved with this year’s ride. Upon deciding to participate, I have had to change my diet and habits, just as I had intended before this journey dropped into my lap. I realize that this is no joke. I am not in the best shape. My diet has had to change, my exercising has increased, my coffee intake is less and my water intake is much greater.

The physicality of this undertaking is overwhelming, but I am on my way and nothing is going to stop me. I have never been able to take on a feat such as this in my life and I am nothing but grateful for the opportunity to give my heart, mind and body to such a cause. I am certain I will be forever changed when we sail through to the finish line and I know I will be helping my brothers and sisters suffering from HIV/AIDS live more abundant and healthy lives because of the money being raised.

So far, I have been on one training ride (28 miles) that I thought was going to kill me, but I am still here and more motivated than ever. Come along and take this daunting and exciting journey with me. I am truly inspired and I think you will be too.

Team Goodisness has a collective $300,000 goal to reach to help support people living with HIV/AIDS.

Each team member sets a goal for donations, which you can help them reach. Thanks for your generous support of Dana’s participation! To learn more about Team Goodisness, which includes Traci Dinwiddie, Cathy DeBuono, our own Shannon Wentworth, Nicole Conn and others, visit ToFightHIV.org.

The post Riding to end HIV/AIDS: Joining Team Goodisness and AIDS/LifeCycle 2014 first appeared on Lesbian.com.