46 Facts About The Movie Pariah

Pariah was based on Dee Rees’ own short film.

Before making the feature-length film, Rees created a short film with the same title and characters. It served as the inspiration for the full-length version.

It explores themes of identity and self-discovery.

Pariah delves into the journey of a young Black lesbian teenager named Alike, as she navigates her sexual orientation and finds her voice in a culture that often rejects her.

Adepero Oduye delivers a captivating performance as Alike.

Oduye’s portrayal of Alike earned her critical acclaim and several award nominations, including an Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead.

The movie showcases the vibrant but often hidden LGBTQ+ community in Brooklyn.

Pariah provides an intimate portrayal of the community and the challenges faced by individuals who must hide or suppress their true selves.

The screenplay for Pariah was highly praised.

Dee Rees received numerous accolades for her screenplay, including an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best First Screenplay.

Bradford Young’s cinematography adds depth to the film.

The visuals in Pariah beautifully capture both the emotional journey of the characters and the vibrant energy of the Brooklyn backdrop.

Pariah premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.

The film made its debut at the prestigious festival in 2011 and received positive reviews from critics.

Kim Wayans delivers a powerful performance as Alike’s mother.

Known for her comedic roles, Wayans showcased her dramatic range in Pariah, earning critical acclaim for her portrayal of a conflicted and unsupportive mother.

The movie tackles complex issues within the LGBTQ+ community.

Pariah addresses topics such as societal expectations, family acceptance, and the struggle to find one’s own path.

The film was well-received by audiences and critics.

Pariah holds an impressive 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising its authenticity and emotional impact.

Pariah received several award nominations.

The movie was recognized with numerous nominations at various award ceremonies, including the BET Awards and the Independent Spirit Awards.

The soundtrack of Pariah features a blend of R&B and hip-hop music.

The music in the film reflects the vibrant cultural scene in Brooklyn and adds to the overall atmosphere of the story.

Pariah emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance.

Throughout the film, the characters learn the significance of embracing their true selves, despite societal pressures and expectations.

The film explores the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals of color.

Pariah shines a light on the unique struggles faced by Black queer individuals, highlighting the intersectionality of race and sexual orientation.

Pariah has been praised for its authentic portrayal of queer experiences.

The film resonates with audiences due to its honest and realistic portrayal of the LGBTQ+ community.

The movie highlights the importance of finding one’s chosen family.

Alike forms deep connections with other members of the LGBTQ+ community, who become her support system when faced with rejection from her biological family.

Pariah has become a cult classic.

The film has garnered a significant following over the years, with fans appreciating its impact and representation.

Pariah was inspired by Dee Rees’ own experiences.

Rees drew from her personal journey to create a film that authentically portrays the struggles and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals.

The movie explores the tension between individuality and conformity.

Pariah examines the pressure to conform to societal norms while longing for the freedom to express one’s true identity.

Pariah broke boundaries for LGBTQ+ representation.

At the time of its release, Pariah was regarded as a groundbreaking film for its honest portrayal of a young Black lesbian protagonist.

The film provides a glimpse into the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community.

Pariah celebrates the uniqueness of individual stories while also shedding light on shared struggles.

Pariah was critically acclaimed for its screenplay.

The script, written by Dee Rees, received praise for its authenticity and compelling storytelling.

The movie received a limited theatrical release.

While not a wide release, Pariah had a successful run in select theaters, further solidifying its impact.

Pariah paved the way for more LGBTQ+ stories in mainstream cinema.

The success and acclaim of the film opened doors for more diverse voices and narratives to be represented on the big screen.

The dialogue in Pariah is sharp and poignant.

The characters’ conversations truly capture the essence of the LGBTQ+ experience, addressing issues with honesty and depth.

Pariah showcases the resilience and strength of its LGBTQ+ characters.

The film portrays individuals who face adversity with courage and determination, inspiring viewers to embrace their own authenticity.

The movie explores the role of religion in LGBTQ+ identities.

Pariah tackles the complex relationship between faith and sexuality, shedding light on the conflicts and struggles faced by many.

The support and mentorship of LGBTQ+ elders is highlighted in Pariah.

The film emphasizes the importance of intergenerational relationships within the LGBTQ+ community.

Pariah received the Excellence in Cinematography Award at Sundance.

The beautiful cinematography by Bradford Young was recognized with this prestigious award at the Sundance Film Festival.

The film’s title, Pariah, represents the feeling of being an outcast.

Alike and other characters in the movie often feel like societal pariahs due to their sexual orientation or other aspects of their identity.

Pariah explores the complexities of familial relationships.

The strained dynamic between Alike and her parents reflects the challenges faced by many LGBTQ+ individuals when seeking acceptance from their families.

Pariah advocates for self-expression and individuality.

Through the characters’ journeys, the movie promotes the importance of staying true to oneself, despite societal pressures.

The film’s cast features talented LGBTQ+ actors.

Pariah includes performances by actors who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, adding an additional layer of authenticity to the film.

The movie addresses the intersectionality of identities.

Pariah acknowledges that individuals can face multiple forms of discrimination and marginalization due to factors such as race, gender, and sexuality.

Pariah tackles the subject of internalized homophobia.

The film explores the internal struggles Alike faces as she grapples with society’s negative messages about her sexual orientation.

The film’s costume design reflects the characters’ journey.

The costumes in Pariah, ranging from Alike’s more conservative attire to the vibrant outfits of the LGBTQ+ community, symbolize the characters’ developing identities.

Pariah promotes empathy and understanding towards LGBTQ+ individuals.

The film encourages viewers to step into the shoes of its characters and consider the challenges they face in a society that often marginalizes them.

Pariah showcases the power of storytelling to create change.

The film’s impact lies in its ability to educate and challenge perceptions, fostering empathy and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Pariah was recognized with the John Cassavetes Award at the Independent Spirit Awards.

This prestigious award honors outstanding independent films made on a limited budget. Pariah’s authentic storytelling was celebrated with this recognition.

The film’s supporting cast is exceptional.

Actors Pernell Walker, Aasha Davis, and Charles Parnell deliver outstanding performances, adding depth to the film’s ensemble cast.

Pariah creates a sense of community and belonging.

The film resonates with audiences by portraying the importance of finding a supportive community amidst adversity.

Pariah challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about LGBTQ+ individuals.

By showcasing the diverse experiences of its characters, the movie breaks down preconceived notions and promotes understanding and acceptance.

The film’s editing captures the emotional intensity of the story.

The seamless editing in Pariah enhances the impact of key moments, immersing the audience in the characters’ journeys.

Pariah addresses the often-overlooked experiences of LGBTQ+ teenagers.

The film sheds light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth as they come to terms with their identities.

Pariah offers a nuanced portrayal of Black queer identity.

The film challenges monolithic representations by presenting the complexity and diversity within the Black queer community.

Pariah continues to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ individuals.

Years after its release, the film remains a beacon of representation and empowerment, reminding viewers that their stories matter.

Pariah stands as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling and the importance of embracing our true selves. Through its compelling narrative and powerful performances, the film has left an indelible mark in the world of cinema. It continues to resonate with audiences and inspire conversations about identity, acceptance, and the pursuit of self-discovery.

Conclusion

Pariah is a groundbreaking film that has captivated audiences since its release. With its powerful storytelling, authentic characters, and thought-provoking themes, it has made a significant impact on the film industry. The movie sheds light on the experiences of a young, black, lesbian woman navigating her identity and relationships, offering a unique and seldom seen perspective on screen.

Through its emotional depth, compelling performances, and beautiful cinematography, Pariah has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. It highlights the importance of self-discovery, acceptance, and the complexities of human relationships. Whether you’re interested in LGBTQ+ cinema or simply enjoy thought-provoking storytelling, Pariah is a must-watch.

FAQs

Q: What is the plot of Pariah?

A: Pariah is a coming-of-age drama that follows the journey of Alike, a young black lesbian living in Brooklyn, as she explores her sexual identity while dealing with societal expectations and familial pressures.

Q: Who directed Pariah?

A: Pariah was directed by Dee Rees, who also wrote the screenplay based on her own short film of the same name.

Q: When was Pariah released?

A: Pariah was released in 2011 and quickly gained recognition for its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences.

Q: Has Pariah won any awards?

A: Yes, Pariah has received numerous accolades, including the Excellence in Cinematography Award at the Sundance Film Festival and the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Film – Limited Release.

Q: Is Pariah suitable for all audiences?

A: Pariah deals with mature themes and contains strong language and sexual content. While it is an important film that addresses important societal issues, parental discretion is advised.

Q: Where can I watch Pariah?

A: Pariah is available on various streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. It may also be available for rental or purchase on DVD or Blu-ray.

Q: How has Pariah impacted LGBTQ+ cinema?

A: Pariah has been praised for its authentic representation of LGBTQ+ characters and experiences. It has paved the way for more diverse storytelling and opportunities for queer filmmakers. Its impact can be seen in the increased visibility and recognition of LGBTQ+ narratives in mainstream media.