Lesbian.com : Connecting lesbians worldwide | SHE4ME https://www.lesbian.com Connecting lesbians worldwide Wed, 14 May 2014 23:03:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 SHE4ME ‘Love is Love’ PSA featured at California Women’s Conference https://www.lesbian.com/she4me-love-is-love-psa-featured-at-california-womens-conference/ https://www.lesbian.com/she4me-love-is-love-psa-featured-at-california-womens-conference/#respond Fri, 16 May 2014 14:30:27 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=23882 Event features Q&A with marriage equality video director and cast members.

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SHE4ME CWC promoBY LESBIAN.COM

The 29th Annual California Women’s Conference (CWC) will stage the Creative Expressions Concert series at Long Beach Convention Center across both nights of this month’s highly anticipated two-day event, May 19-20.

The Creative Expressions Concert series, showcasing performing artists including Mary Lambert, will be streamed live online. The Marriage Equality USA-sanctioned “Love Is Love” PSA set to Jen Foster’s “SHE” will be officially included in the program for Tuesday, May 20.

The program will also include a live Q&A with the multiple award-winning writer/director Nicole Conn, Jane Wishon (Board President of Marriage Equality USA) and some of the cast members from SHE4ME including Mike C. Manning (“Disney”), Gabrielle Christian (“South Of Nowhere“) and Traci Dinwiddie (“Elena Undone“). More names are expected to be announced closer to the event.

The CWC was first launched in 1985 to address the high failure rate among women-owned businesses. Over the years the CWC has played host to a phenomenal list of speakers including His Holiness the Dalai Lama, first lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Duchess of York Sara Ferguson, Barbara Walters, Jane Fonda, Madeline Albright, Condoleeza Rice and Martha Stewart.

This year’s conference will focus on helping attendees discover how to lead a thriving life. Experts will be on hand to discuss how to balance the five essential elements of well being: career life, social life, financial life, physical life and community life.

To purchase tickets to the concert series visit: http://goo.gl/ynTR5k

Speakers for the California Women’s Conference: http://goo.gl/ddYs1U

For tickets to the California Women’s Conference 2014: http://goo.gl/HVp83v

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Guinevere Turner on the past, present, future of queer girl entertainment https://www.lesbian.com/guinevere-turner-on-the-past-present-future-of-queer-girl-entertainment/ https://www.lesbian.com/guinevere-turner-on-the-past-present-future-of-queer-girl-entertainment/#respond Wed, 14 May 2014 14:15:29 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=23752 Interview with the star of "Go Fish," "The L Word" and the upcoming "Crazy Bitches"

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Guinevere TurnerBY NATASIA LANGFELDER
Lesbian.com

Like most millennials, I was introduced to Guinevere Turner as the heart breaker Gabby on “The L Word.” She played every queer girl’s cruel, beautiful ex-girlfriend — the one that doesn’t want you, but won’t let you go.

I was in a grrlbar when Alice, the object of Gabby’s torturous affection, yelled “Step off, bitch,” at her in order to break cycle of dysfunction. The bar erupted in applause and Gabby, with an arch of her perfect eyebrows, stepped off.

Turner remained with “The L Word” as a writer through the first two seasons and briefly reprised her role as Gabby in later seasons, returning primarily to eat a sandwich and disappear into Papi’s bedroom. And while Turner’s work on “The L Word” was my introduction to the talented performer, it was far from her first work.

Turner initially made a splash on the queer entertainment scene twenty years ago in “Go Fish,” a product of Turner’s collaboration with her then girlfriend Rose Troche, who also directed the film.

The movie, produced on a shoestring budget and requiring over two years to complete, told the story of Max West and her Gen X lesbian friends. Unlike most of the other available queer content of the time, “Go Fish” wasn’t a coming out story – all the women in the cast already knew they were gay. Instead, the women dealt with familiar issues such as homophobic families, meeting the right woman, keeping a relationship together and coping with the often harsh expectations that we impose on each other as women. “Go Fish” also included the stories of queer women of color, a rarity as the lack of minority representation in queer film remains a hot-button issue in the community 20 years later.

Turner’s Max West was both likeable and bratty — pathetic but relatable. She represented every young lesbian coming out, paradoxically both full of herself and full of self-loathing.

In the 20 years since “Go Fish,” Turner’s career has grown and evolved as she applied her ample talents to all aspects of production — writing, acting, directing and producing on various projects. In this interview, Turner discusses her career, favorite projects, funniest moments and what we can expect from her in the future.

Turner caught me off guard, initiating the interview with a question of her own.

Do you know that I’m gay?

Um, I think I do. From your work I would guess so. You recently co-starred in the SHE4ME PSA for marriage equality. Do you have plans to get hitched anytime soon?

Oh my god! I believe in everybody’s right to get married. I myself, no, never! It just seems like a really crazy thing to do.

Your latest full length film, “Crazy Bitches,” is about several friends who go away together for a weekend and fall prey to a psychotic killer. Why did you choose to get involved in this project?

I met the director, Jane Clark, at a party and we really hit it off. And by hit it off I mean, I said, “Are you making a movie? Is there a part for me in it?”

I thought the title (of the movie) was really funny. Jane said, “Actually you’re too old. All of the characters are in their 30s.” A week later she came back to me and said. “You know what, I found a way to make one of the characters older.”

Was that kind of hard to hear, to be told you’re too old?

No, as someone who has been in casting and directed, sometimes people are just too old. I know I look good for 45, but no one is going to believe I’m 32. Remember in “Beverly Hills 90210” where there were actors in their 30s pretending to be in high school? I wouldn’t want to do something like that.

I’ve lived with the realities of Hollywood for a long time now. The reality is that I’m a woman in my 40s and there are fewer roles for us than there are for women in their 20s certainly, and women in their 30s, as well.

“Crazy Bitches,” is a black comedy much like the film you co-wrote, “American Psycho” and your latest pet project “Creeps.” What is it that draws you to this genre?

It’s funny because all of those movies are so different, but they could be called dark comedies.

“American Psycho” was different. Mary Harron, the director, asked me write it with her. I’m such a total scaredy cat when it comes to anything like horror. Mary told me I would have to read the book and she was like, “I’m sorry you have to read this!”

I just thought the book was funny! I think that dark things are funny.

Have you ever heard of the movie “Happiness?”

No.

It’s from the late 90s and it’s the most hilarious movie. It makes my work look like the family channel. How the heck did the movie get made? It’s about Philip Seymour Hoffman as a pedophile.

I can see how a lot of people wouldn’t think that was funny.

You recently had an Indiegogo campaign to fund your latest black comedy concept “Creeps,” which is about two queer best friends who decide to stay sober for a week so they can have great skin for a party — is it still going to happen?

Yes, we are still doing fundraising on it. We are reworking it, we feel accountable to the people who gave money to the Indiegogo campaign so we are repurposing it as a TV pilot. We see it as a long-term story arc and with all these new platforms that have original programming. It’s a really great moment to target some of that.

Things like Amazon and Netflix, it’s the wave of the future. Actually watching TV shows on the TV as they air is becoming antiquated. Although the campaign has ended you can still learn about the project and donate on the website.

You’ve been on all sides of the camera as an actress, writer, director and producer. Which of these roles do you enjoy the most?

Writer first and foremost; always will be, always have been — even as a kid. I am more comfortable with writing because I know I’m good at it and I like doing it. But then it’s really lonely.

And then I love being an actor and director. I love being on the set and collaborating with people. But then I get a little overwhelmed and I can be alone and write again. Being a producer sucks — it’s the hardest job. I’ve only done it when I’ve had to. Other than that I love it all.

You’ve played a huge role in queer visibility in film — starting with writing and starring in the groundbreaking “Go Fish,” to being the inspiration behind the titular character in “Chasing Amy,” writing and acting in “The L Word” and even writing “Bloodrayne,” which produced Michelle Rodriquez’s and Kristanna Loken’s amazing, but brief, romance. Where do you see the future of queer entertainment headed and what part do you see yourself playing?

I didn’t know that they dated — that’s so funny! When I wrote that script I had no idea who would be playing those parts. But I thought, “How can I lez this up?” The answer — gratuitous underwater girl-on-girl fights. So, you’re welcome, lesbians.

Whenever anyone says that I’m the inspiration for “Chasing Amy” I want to make it clear that I’ve never had sex with Kevin Smith. The second part of that movie has nothing to do with me!

What’s interesting about what’s happening right now is trans and gender-queer visibility is skyrocketing. It’s happening so quickly everyone is going to be over the “LGB” and focus on the “T.” The “T” is so new to people but, obviously, it’s not new to me, I’ve been in friendships like that since my early 20s.

People are putting transgender characters in their stories the same way they used to use gay characters in their stories. There’s even a show on Amazon called “Transparent” about transitioning.

I feel like with things like the new online way of watching television there are so many more opportunities for even more LGBT queer stuff to be available online. I was just talking about the show “The Fosters” on ABC Family. I watched it when it first started airing and I was like it’s good, its a little too ABC Family for me — it’s vanilla. I’m glad it’s on, but I’m not going to watch it. And to be like, “its here but I’m not going to watch it” is progress! It’s a show about a lesbian family.

There are also shows like “Orange is the New Black.” It’s just exciting there are so many ways to create queer characters and get them out there. It’s a little sad that people aren’t going to movies as much, which means indie movies aren’t getting out there as much. I might sound like an old lady when I say that; it’s nostalgic. People that are outside of the urban areas and more isolated have so much access to everything. There’s more out there than when I was in my 20s. The future is exciting is the short answer to that.

Aside from “Creeps,” are there other projects you’re working on?

I’m writing a TV pilot, that centers around a CODA [Child of Deaf Adult]. Working on that and putting deaf characters out there is a big deal to me.

I’m working on other cool projects but I’m afraid I’ll jinx it! Check back in with me.

Let’s bring this conversation back around to “The L Word.” As both a writer and an actress on the show, how do you feel about the fans’ “love/hate” relationship with it?

I feel like, of course, the community is going to be hypercritical of the show. Especially when it was airing — it was the first of its kind and the first time the general public was having access to our lives. Of course everyone is going to be hypercritical!

It was such a huge thing for six years and it all came down to one person — one person’s vision, Ilene Chaiken, who created the show. She controlled what was on the page and what ended up on the screen. It’s one person’s perspective and vision — of course other people are going to love it or hate it. If I were at home watching it I would probably be throwing popcorn at the screen during some scenes. Buzzfeed had one of those lists and it included “A thing that lesbians do is hate ‘The L Word,’ but we all secretly watch it.”

What’s your favorite “on set” memory from “The L Word”?

An episode that I had written was being shot with Kate Moennig and Susan Arquette. It was directed by Mary Harron who is my friend. I was in the production office it came over the walkie. Mary said, “When she calls for a blue dolphin dildo in the script, does she really mean a dolphin dildo? Does such a thing exist?” — that’s working on “The L Word!” And I said, “It sure does!”

I have a real life dating experience with it. A girl I was seeing was all excited whipping out her dolphin-shaped dildo and I was like really? Am I supposed to be turned on right now?

I think the sad part is that I’ve also had that happen!

I don’t want to sexualize a dolphin in that way.

Out of all the projects you have worked on, do you have a favorite?

It’s all been so great and nighmare-ish all at once. I think the most fun I’ve had was a movie that I acted in called, “Who’s Afraid of Vagina Wolf” that’s going to available for streaming this summer. I’m playing the part of Elizabeth Taylor in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf.” I told the director “I’m not going to play a good actor,” which was great because nothing was too over the top. I could be the most outrageous actor and also the director is a good friend — it was just really a fun set to be on. It was my idea of a good time.

What advice would you give young, queer women who are just starting out in their careers?

Stay passionate. I feel like when I watch “Go Fish” I think, “Wow, we were so passionate about what we were doing I cant believe we actually got that done!” — with no money, no email, no smartphones. It took two years; we broke up, but we were just really passionate about getting this message out there.

If you want to make money there are a lot of different ways to do that, but if what you want is to be happy, do what you’re passionate about. In my career I’ve taken jobs because I needed to pay the bills and ultimately that made me miserable and I didn’t do great work. So I try to make sure I don’t do what I love for money. If I do it, I love it and hopefully I make some money.

You’ve been in the entertainment business for over 20 years — what do you want your professional legacy to be?

Surprising! Some filmmakers get stuck doing the same particular genre of film and my work is all so different. I want my legacy to be, “she was good at everything.”

When you say legacy like that it scares me — I’m only 45. I’m extremely confident it’s only going to get better from here. What I’ve done so far, it’s not going to be what I’m known for.

Follow Guinevere on Twitter or Facebook to keep track of her latest projects.

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Nicole Pacent: The SHE4ME bride with the heart of Princess Leia https://www.lesbian.com/nicole-pacent-the-she4me-bride-with-the-heart-of-princess-leia/ https://www.lesbian.com/nicole-pacent-the-she4me-bride-with-the-heart-of-princess-leia/#respond Fri, 28 Mar 2014 13:45:07 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=22072 Interview with star of the SHE4ME marriage equality PSA and 'Anyone But Me,'

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Nicole Pacent

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.

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Gaby Christian talks marriage equality, kissing girls, perfect Friday night https://www.lesbian.com/gaby-christian-talks-marriage-equality-kissing-girls-perfect-friday-night/ https://www.lesbian.com/gaby-christian-talks-marriage-equality-kissing-girls-perfect-friday-night/#respond Tue, 25 Mar 2014 14:30:24 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=21990 Interview with co-star of the viral SHE4ME marriage equality video and "South of Nowhere"

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Gabrielle ChristianBY NATASIA LANGFELDER
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.

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SHE4ME marriage equality video to screen at lesbian film festival https://www.lesbian.com/she4me-marriage-equality-video-to-screen-at-lesbian-film-festival/ https://www.lesbian.com/she4me-marriage-equality-video-to-screen-at-lesbian-film-festival/#respond Sun, 23 Mar 2014 13:30:56 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=21793 5-minute video selected to screen at International Women's Film Festival in Roma, Italy, on May 31.

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She4Me video stillBY 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.”

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She4ME: Marriage equality PSA about to go viral https://www.lesbian.com/she4me-marriage-equality-psa-about-to-go-viral/ https://www.lesbian.com/she4me-marriage-equality-psa-about-to-go-viral/#respond Sat, 15 Feb 2014 17:00:03 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=20520 Featuring Jen Foster's "She" and directed by Nicole Conn, this beautiful short video promotes equal love.

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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

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Behind the scenes with She4ME: Blooper reel https://www.lesbian.com/behind-the-scenes-with-she4me-blooper-reel/ https://www.lesbian.com/behind-the-scenes-with-she4me-blooper-reel/#respond Wed, 08 Jan 2014 17:00:37 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=19477 Marriage equality PSA blooper reel features behind the scenes footage

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The SHE4ME PSA video, shot in West Hollywood LA through November and December last year, is currently in post-production.

The music video will be paired to a mix of Jen Foster‘s “She”. The song has been a favorite within the lesbian community for over a decade and is often used in commitment ceremonies. Renowned music producer Eve Nelson scored the piece and produced an incredible fusion of contemporary orchestra and dance to compliment the storyboard created by Director Nicole Conn.

Celebrities including Nicole Pacent, Barbara Niven, Mike C Manning, Gabrielle Christian, Traci Dinwiddie, Guinevere Turner and many others joined the production at key sponsor Andaz West Hollywood. Check out the fun blooper reel filmed in the media room at Andaz by Equality TV.

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SHE4MarriageEquality: PSA video sneak preview https://www.lesbian.com/she4marriageequality-psa-video-sneak-preview/ https://www.lesbian.com/she4marriageequality-psa-video-sneak-preview/#comments Sat, 09 Nov 2013 21:00:17 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=18309 A teaser of Nicole Conn's video PSA set to Jen Foster's "SHE"

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Legendary writer/director Nicole Conn is directing a marriage equality music video PSA to an orchestral dance remix of Jen Foster‘s “SHE.” Check out this teaser!

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Nicole Conn to direct marriage equality PSA https://www.lesbian.com/nicole-conn-to-direct-marriage-equality-psa/ https://www.lesbian.com/nicole-conn-to-direct-marriage-equality-psa/#respond Tue, 05 Nov 2013 16:00:50 +0000 http://www.lesbian.com/?p=18198 Set to Jen Foster's song "SHE," PSA will feature numerous celesbians and allies in support of marriage equality.

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Jen Foster SHE 4 Marriage EqualityBY Lesbian.com

Nicole Conn, the writer/director behind lesbian favorites Claire Of The Moon (1992), Elena Undone (2010) and A Perfect Ending (2012) is directing a Marriage Equality PSA to be released in December. This will be Conn’s first music video.

SHE4MarriageEquality (@She_4_ME) will launch a video clip to a orchestral dance mix of Jen Foster‘s “SHE.”  Foster says, “It started out as a small project and now it has snowballed into this large movement. Everyone who has pitched in to make this PSA come to life has been so genuinely excited to help. It has been a really moving experience.”

Marriage Equality USA (MEUSA), Visit West Hollywood, WOLFE Video, Curve Magazine and Andaz West Hollywood have all signed on as official supporters of the video along with a fleet of volunteers from the LGBT community who have contributed in every aspect of this Music Video PSA.

The video will feature guest appearances by Nicole Pacent (Anyone But Me), Barbara Niven (A Perfect Ending), Traci Dinwiddie (Elena Undone) and more.

 

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