Breaking Down the 2024 SXSW Film & TV Festival's Queer Offerings

"A House is Not a Disco"

Entering the documentary space is Brian J. Smith's "A House Is Not A Disco." Telling the true story of a 12-month journey at the Fire Island Pines, the film explores the many crossroads the East Coast community has witnessed throughout the years. Though this documentary highlights the recent changes seen by new generations of homeowners attempting to become more inclusive, it relies heavily on history alongside the current threat of climate change on the beach town's properties. The Pines is where eccentrics all came to be open with who they are, and "A House Is Not A Disco" puts them all on full display.

"I Don't Understand You"

What could be more exciting than a vacation to Italy, one of the most romantic destinations on Earth? For one American couple (Nick Kroll and Andrew Rannells), an Italian adventure takes a stark turn after one thing after another goes terribly wrong for them during what should be an enjoyable baby moon. Without fluency in the language and reliable transportation, the soon-to-be parents' relationship is tested in this remarkable comedy from writers/directors Brian Crano and David Craig. The often hilarious hijinks that both Kroll and Rannells have found their characters in throughout the years might prove to be a dynamite pairing in "I Don't Understand You."

"I Wish You All the Best"

Adapting a novel to the silver screen is a well-tested success at film festivals like SXSW. This year, Mason Deaver's book "I Wish You All the Best" gets the royal treatment with writer/director Tommy Dorfman at the helm and actor Corey Fogelmanis playing the non-binary main character of teenager Ben DeBacker. Ben is thrown out of the house and moves in with his estranged older sister and her husband. Still in high school, Ben must continue their junior year with anxiety in tow...that is until they meet Nathan, a charismatic classmate who befriends Ben and shows them that there is light at the end of Ben's dark tunnel. The film costars Cole Sprouse, Alexandra Daddario, Lisa Yamada, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, and Brian Michael Smith.

"Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show"

Comedian and actor Jerrod Carmichael came out as gay during his televised comedy special "Rothaniel" in 2022. Since then, the North Carolina native has hosted the Golden Globe Awards, hosted "Saturday Night Live," and won a Primetime Emmy Award. Now, Carmichael is unveiling his newest television endeavor to audiences at SXSW, a comedy documentary entitled "Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show." Set to debut on HBO later this month, the series serves as Carmichael's way of traversing love and sex in hopes of making a meaningful connection.

"Hacks Season 3 Premiere"

The recipient of several Primetime Emmy Awards and nominations for its stellar cast, Max's "Hacks" will finally see its season three premiere at SXSW this year. Starring Hannah Einbinder as the bisexual comedy writer Ava for Las Vegas has-been comedian Deborah Vance (Jean Smart), the series took a turn in its second season when the intergenerational pair embarked on a cross-country comedy tour to capitalize on Vance's celebrity image. The two split at the end of last season after Deborah fired Ava so the latter could pursue her own career goals, so season three might be a change of pace for everyone's favorite fictional comedians!