The Orange At The Seder Premieres At June Festival
Debuting a queer story of coming out amidst celebration and disruption at an all-male Passover seder.
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.
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In a bold celebration of queer storytelling, NewFilmmakers Los Angeles is set to light up this June with the debut of THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER. Under the skillful direction of Jacob Combs, the film promises a fresh, personal narrative woven into the backdrop of an annual all-male Passover seder. At its core, the film explores the complexities of love, identity, and the courage it takes to be true to oneself.
Film Debut At June Festival
When Adam brings his first-ever girlfriend to his mentor’s iconic queer Passover seder, he finds himself forced to re-navigate a coming out process amidst the warmth and chaos of his chosen family. This narrative twist not only challenges traditional norms but also provides viewers with a nuanced look at the ways personal relationships intertwine with cultural and familial expectations. The film’s premiere is a central feature of NewFilmmakers Los Angeles’ June Festival lineup, setting the stage for discussions on inclusivity and self-acceptance.
Jacob Combs, a Los Angeles-based director and writer, has been steadily carving his niche in the festival circuit. His impressive résumé boasts contributions to major projects such as Netflix’s BLOCKBUSTER, Pixar’s DREAM PRODUCTIONS, and the Emmy-nominated Disney+ nonfiction series INSIDE PIXAR. With THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER, Combs delves into a story that is both timely and personal, using the vibrant setting of a queer seder to highlight the ongoing journey of self-discovery and change within contemporary culture. The film has already made waves, having screened at prestigious gatherings like the Seattle International Film Festival, HollyShorts, and the BFI Flare London LGBTQ+ Film Festival.
Behind The Scenes Talent
The creative team behind THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER is a roster of seasoned professionals who bring this vibrant story to life. Alongside director Jacob Combs, viewers will enjoy performances from a talented cast—including actors known by their social media handles such as @circus.actor, @cohenismyname, @virginiaama, and @estoy.augusto. The production also sees a collaborative effort from individuals like @garlandmatt2 and @mauraturner, who co-produced the project along with Combs himself. The technical crew, featuring talents like DP @robinpabello, editor @lindsay_armstrong89, production designer @evanisthenewblack, and music contributor @jtmonaco, ensures that every frame of the film is polished and immersive.
The extensive credits highlight the collaborative spirit that powers the film. From casting director @mbapostrophes and costume designer @jaiklein to on-set photographer @ec2studios, every team member plays a vital role. This collective effort not only enriches the storytelling but also reaffirms the strength of community in independent filmmaking. The integrated approach to both production and post-production underscores the film’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
Festival Highlights And Community Impact
The debut of THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER comes at a time when NewFilmmakers Los Angeles is expanding its festival offerings. This month’s line-up places significant emphasis on LGBTQ+ cinema, echoing previous celebratory events such as the all-trans shorts block and the annual InFocus: LGBTQ+ Cinema programs. In recent Instagram updates, NFMLA celebrated the diversity and inclusion of its festivals by scheduling various programs that cater to different aspects of queer experiences—from narratives focused on acceptance and belonging to those that push the envelope on gender exploration. The film’s screening is expected to resonate with festival-goers, many of whom have already expressed excitement on social media platforms about the evolving faces of independent cinema.
Attendees at the festival will not only experience THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER but will also be invited to engage in dynamic discussions during post-screening Q&A sessions. This interaction is emblematic of NFMLA’s commitment to fostering an environment where filmmakers and audiences alike can connect around pivotal, inclusive themes. By exploring the challenges of identity and acceptance, the film adds a new layer to the ongoing discourse around LGBTQ+ representation in film.
A New Chapter For Queer Cinema
Bringing both humor and depth to the subject of coming out, THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER is a distinctive addition to the independent film circuit. With its blend of personal narrative, cultural examination, and high-caliber production, the film symbolizes a new chapter for queer cinema. Adam’s story—balancing personal vulnerability against the backdrop of tradition and communal expectations—mirrors many contemporary narratives in a society looking to redefine the boundaries of acceptance.
NewFilmmakers Los Angeles, known for its long-standing commitment to supporting emerging voices, has consistently served as a platform for unearthing stories that might otherwise go untold. With this June festival, NFMLA continues that legacy by curating a diverse collection of films that speak to a wide array of experiences. The premiere of THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER is not just a film screening; it is a cultural event that promises to inspire and challenge its audience to think differently about identity, tradition, and the ever-evolving dynamics of modern relationships.
Audiences and critics alike are eagerly awaiting the film’s wider impact on discussions surrounding queer culture and representation in modern cinema. As the festival season unfolds, THE ORANGE AT THE SEDER stands out as a beacon of creative expression and inclusivity—a true celebration of the art of storytelling in its most vibrant form.
In wrapping up the day’s events, the film’s debut is set to leave an indelible mark on both the NFMLA community and independent film enthusiasts. The combination of innovative narrative, stellar performances, and thoughtful production design makes it a must-watch event this June. With a lineup of engaging discussions and powerful visual storytelling, NFMLA’s June Festival continues to prove that independent cinema is not only creative but also a dynamic conversational platform.
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