Moises Serrano
Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America may be the most important movie on the festival circuit right now. The documentary follows Moises Serrano, a young queer man whose parents immigrated from Mexico to North Carolina when Serrano was only 18 months old. Serrano is a “Dreamer” (as defined by President Obama’s “Dream Act” legislation that attempted to make inroads for undocumented young people to become full citizens — legislation that President Trump just ended) and an activist for queer and undocumented Americans.
The film follows Serrano’s day-to-day work as a part of the struggle, as well as his personal life with his boyfriend and family. Serrano’s story is paradigmatic of how the personal is always political. When, for instance, he and his long term boyfriend speak of marriage, they are talking not just about gay marriage but about what marriage means for Serrano’s citizenship. Can they take such a big step? Should they?
It is difficult to watch Serrano’s work, deftly depicted in Forbidden by filmmaker Tiffany Rhynard, from the perspective of the current political moment. Serrano and his family’s paths have never been easy. They are getting no easier. But the film expertly crafted, and Serrano’s message more important than ever—don’t miss it.
Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America screens at 7 PM on Friday, September 9 as part of the Outflix Film Festival.