Hope, perseverance, and religious intolerance: Fruits of the Spirit review
Fruits of the Spirit film poster - Click on the image to view full size.
Revd Rose Hill (left) at the film premiere. PHOTO: El Bergonzini.
AS A PARTNER of The Gathering Cardiff, an an LGBTQ+ affirming church and charity, we were invited to review their new short film, Fruits of the Spirit.
OTN trustee Revd Rose Hill, host of our Open Table community in East Cardiff, attended the film premiere and shares her reflection on this dramatic tale of hope, perseverance, and religious intolerance that is familiar to many in our communities.
I have to admit to some trepidation when I was invited to the premiere of Fruits of the Spirit. As the character Maddy states at the start of the film, as well as the usual certainties in life (birth, death and taxes), as queer people another certainty may be religious trauma. Aware of not wishing to be triggered myself, I was in two minds about whether to go. I am so glad that I did.
Georgia Day’s sensitive and courageous script makes for a beautifully shot and directed short film. As much of the cast are from the LGBTQIA+ community, the film has a sense of authenticity and honesty. The lead actors Niamh Moulton and Aisha-May Hunte deliver realistic and thought provoking performances.
The film deals with the fallout for two queer people ousted from their church for being in a relationship with each other, and documents their journey towards finding a safe and welcoming religious community. It pulls no punches and demonstrates the all too familiar attitudes of ‘don’t ask don’t tell’ and ‘love the sinner, hate the sin’ that can be so damaging and pervasive in some church communities.
The film is honest yet hopeful. The cinematography is imaginative and captivating. It is an important view for all members of church communities whether they consider themselves to be LGBTQIA+ inclusive or not. I truly hope that it receives the recognition it so richly deserves.
The Gathering Cardiff plans to use this film as part of training and support for church communities on the path to LGBTQIA+ inclusion, which is heartening and encouraging.
