Audio French, Subtitles English

Paris is in a state of emergency: Lady Gaga has to cancel her concert, a panic breaks out in the Marais gay district, and gym-goers complain about their abs disappearing. The reason: Heterosis, a new virus that turns gay men into heteros. Fitness influencer Jim has also been infected and is now frantically searching for a solution before the last of his followers jumps ship. Together with the newly outed twink Lucien, the “Gym Queen” sets out in search of a cure—not only to save himself, but to prevent the entire queer community from going extinct…

“Jim Queen” premiered during the Midnight Screening at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, where it drew not only thunderous applause but also hearty laughter. The exaggerated alternate version of Paris depicted here is brimming with sharp humor and biting satire, yet never ridicules its colorful cast of characters. With this film, directors Nicolas Athane and Marco Nguyen shed light on their own experiences within the French nightlife and party scene, showcasing the great diversity within the LGBTQA+ community, but also not shying away from openly addressing its darker sides. An unfiltered portrayal that plays with clichés and stereotypes (both gay and straight), but never lets up on its relentless assault on the audience’s funny bone. (SaL)