2022 TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL REVIEW!
The House of LaBeija is supported primarily by the ideas of acceptance and representation. This short documentary features a series of individuals from the House of LaBeija, a place in which members of the LGBTQ+ community are able to come, be themselves, and be accepted. These individuals express themselves to the world, but more importantly to themselves. They discuss with themselves their struggles and hardships, but more importantly their successes.
The content present in The House of LaBeija will certainly rub some people the wrong way. I won’t lie, that makes some semblance of sense, but I think Director Fredgy Noël was well aware of this when constructing her short film. There’s no doubt in my mind that Noël is aware of how judgemental and harsh the world can be–but that doesn’t deter her. She’s willing to take risks and tell the stories of those previously forced to the shadows, and her willingness and tenacity is what makes this film so appealing. I appreciate the stories, I appreciate the subjects of the film, but it’s Noël’s risk to bring this story to life, her decision not to care what the rest of the world would think, that is the shining light of the entire production.
One after another, members of the House of LaBeija come forward and tell the world their stories. They spend their time on screen speaking to themselves, not the viewers, putting those viewers in a unique position throughout the course of The House of LaBeija. While that keeps viewers out of that veritable conversation, it allows them to see each individual for who they are, rather than being manipulated by a camera or a conversation. As those individuals speak to themselves throughout The House of LaBeija, their monologues are full of self-affirmations–reaching viewers everywhere, and reminding them to find what within themselves makes them happy. That seems to be the point of The House of LaBeija, reaching its viewers and expressing to them that they should love and cherish themselves, and I think that Noël accomplishes that goal effectively with the help of the cast.
Each of the testimonials is accompanied by music composed by Khalif Diouf (formerly known as Le1f), which helps to strengthen The House of Lebeija’s message and more effectively reach viewers. The soothing, but upbeat tones of Diouf pairs well with the tone of the film, and it plays a significant role in how viewers receive all that takes place throughout this short film. The perfect score is inviting, and it reflects not just what each of the individuals say, but the narrative present within this documentary as well.
The House of LaBeija is a powerful production about loving yourself and accepting the things that outsiders may consider flaws. The most important thing in the world is loving yourself, and The House of LaBeija makes this message a primary focus throughout. As previously mentioned, the content present throughout the course of The House of LaBeija will likely upset some viewers, even turning them off to the film early on. However, regardless of your views, it’s imperative that you understand the message present in the film. Know that everyone involved in this film wants to reach a wide-range of viewers, and express to them that they should love themselves. Beyond any other aspect of the film, this is what viewers should take away; and even if you’re against other aspects of the film for any reason, I believe that this is a film that deserves your attention. The House of LaBeija is a touching tribute to the human psyche and self love. Do yourself a favor and listen to what Noël and her team have to say.
Directed by Fredgy Noël.
Starring Samil LaBeija, Krystal LaBeija, Jasmine LaBeija, Boujie LaBeija, Jeffrey LaBeije, Diovanna LaBeija, & Vivian LaBeija.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐½/10
