Stud Life

Stud Life takes place in London and follows JJ, a black stud, their white gay friend Seb, and Elle, a black femme and JJ’s love interest. The collision of vastly different sexualities in the film challenges the perception that there is only one way to be a lesbian. JJ embraces this difference: “It takes all sorts to make a lesbian nation.” JJ’s photography captures resistance toward the conventions of sexuality and relationships—one photoshoot stages a civil partnership so a man can avoid deportation. With Campbell’s great direction, the film tastefully and respectfully explores relationships with non-traditional components while presenting the characters as their multi-faceted, complex selves. The sex scenes reveal insightful truths about the characters and how they connect to others aided by the actors’ genuine performances. Elle’s character complicates the representation of femme identity, raising questions about the intersections of race, power, and capitalism.

- Maria Aghazarian