Director: Andrew Durham
Writer: Andrew Durham
Stars: Emilia Jones, Scoot McNairy, Geena Davis
Synopsis: A young girl shares her experience of growing up in San Francisco during the ’70s and ’80s with her gay dad.
Parenting is tricky. Everyone has a different way of raising kids, hoping to help them be better than they were. Single parents face even more challenges. They often deal with outside opinions while navigating their unique situations. A child may sense something’s off but might not speak up for fear of causing turmoil. This feeling can deepen when the single parent has the chance to pursue their own dreams.
Fairyland brings this theme to life. Based on Alysia Abbott’s memoir, it explores her journey of growing up with a father who kept his sexuality hidden. The film captures both her childhood curiosity and her teenage frustrations, helping us see how her father’s journey influenced her sense of identity.
Director Andrew Durham immerses us in the LGBTQ+ history of San Francisco. He weaves real footage from Gay Freedom Day, now known as Gay Pride, into the story. This approach offers a rich backdrop without needing an extravagant budget. The set designers have done a great job too, adding details like campaign signs for Harvey Milk, a key figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
Alysia’s realization of her father’s struggles adds depth to the story. In a poignant scene, she casually hears the word “hospice” but doesn’t fully grasp its importance. She later finds her father at the bedside of a man suffering from AIDS, highlighting the devastating impact of the epidemic during that time.
Scoot McNairy’s portrayal of Alysia’s dad is compelling. He brings a raw, emotional honesty that complicates the perception of Steve as a flawed parent. His performance, especially in subtle, wordless moments, lets us feel his character’s depth without needing excessive dialogue.
Fairyland evolves as Alysia does, weaving a tale of coming-of-age that resonates with anyone who has reassessed their parents as adults. While the pacing can feel slow, the insight into the unique bond between a single parent and child is rich and relatable.
Growing up in a time of change, Alysia’s story reflects both personal and societal shifts that are still very relevant today. As we look back on LGBTQ+ history, it reminds us of the ongoing journey for acceptance and understanding within families.
Grade: B
For deeper insights on LGBTQ+ history, check out resources from the Human Rights Campaign.
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