Documentary ‘Reclaim the Flag’ Examines LGBTQ Community’s Relationship With American Flag
8 reported
A new documentary short titled "Reclaim the Flag" explores how the American flag can be reclaimed as a symbol of unity for all Americans, with a focus on the LGBTQ community. The film is the directorial debut of celebrity jewelry designer Alexis Bittar and is produced by Oscar winner Bruce Cohen. It features interviews with figures including Lena Waithe, Gus Kenworthy, Jonathan Capehart, Marc Jacobs, Jim Parsons, George Takei, and others. Bittar said that when the film was shot, it was difficult to find people willing to go on camera because they were nervous to talk about America. He noted that the flag has been "co-opted" and "weaponized" by the right, and that the left "didn't address it." The film does not mention former President Donald Trump. A New York City screening, in partnership with the Human Rights Campaign, marked the official launch of the Reclaim The Flag movement, with Mayor Zohran Mamdani speaking at the event.
What’s reported
"Reclaim the Flag" is a documentary short directed by Alexis Bittar and produced by Oscar winner Bruce Cohen.
The film focuses on the LGBTQ community's relationship with the American flag and aims to reclaim it as a symbol of unity.
Interviewees include Lena Waithe, Gus Kenworthy, Jonathan Capehart, Marc Jacobs, Bill T. Jones, Jim Parsons, George Takei, Gottmik, Gigi Goode, Cheyenne Jackson, Brandon Flynn, Harper Steele, Isaac Mizrahi, John Cameron Mitchell, Paul Tazewell, Raquel Willis, Josh Wood, Jenna Lyons, Justin Tranter, and Marc Jacobs.
Bittar said filming occurred when Trump was "coming after universities," making it difficult to find people willing to go on camera.
Bittar stated the flag has been "co-opted" and "weaponized" by the right, and the left "didn't address it."
The film does not mention Trump.
A New York City screening partnered with the Human Rights Campaign launched the Reclaim The Flag movement.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani spoke at the event.
Key figures
Alexis Bittar: filmmaker and celebrity jewelry designer
Bruce Cohen: Oscar-winning producer
Lena Waithe: interviewee in the film
Gus Kenworthy: interviewee in the film
Jonathan Capehart: interviewee in the film
Marc Jacobs: interviewee in the film
Jim Parsons: interviewee in the film
George Takei: interviewee in the film
Zohran Mamdani: New York City Mayor
Sources: Variety
