Presented by Cliterion Collection & Lavender Evolutions

Cheryl Dunye practically invented a new form of cinema – the ‘Dunyementary.’ Using a mixture of narrative and documentary techniques, the Dunyementary challenges social and cultural norms through a sharply funny and reflexive lens. Her acclaimed first feature THE WATERMELON WOMAN (1996) introduced Cheryl to wider audiences, who fell in love with her self-depreciating and insightful wit – not to mention the great cast (including herself). But what came before this modern-day classic?

The Early Works of Cheryl Dunye brings to us the first chapter of her provocative yet humorous oeuvre. Included on the disc are:

• GREETINGS FROM AFRICA (Narrative, 1994)
Cheryl, playing herself, humorously experiences the mysteries of lesbian dating.

• THE POTLUCK AND THE PASSION (Experimental Narrative, 1993)
Sparks fly as racial, sexual and social politics intermingle at a lesbian potluck.

• AN UNTITLED PORTRAIT (Video Montage, 1993)
Dunye’s relationship with her brother is examined in this mixture of appropriated film footage, super 8mm home movies & Dunye’s special brand of humor.

• VANILLA SEX (Experimental Documentary, 1992)
Is it who you do, or what you do?

• SHE DON’T FADE (Experimental Narrative, 1991)
A self-reflexive look at the sexuality of a young black lesbian.

• JANINE (Experimental Documentary, 1990)
The story of a black lesbian’s relationship with a white high school girl.

CLITERION COLLECTION: A film series centering dÿke and trans representation in cinema. Selections by resident they/thems Lu & Mary.

LAVENDER EVOLUTIONS is a collective of Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People of Color cultivating spaces for celebration, healing, and community in the DMV, Piscataway land. Drawing inspiration from queer history and community collaboration, Lavender Evolutions has been organizing an eclectic mix of programs to bring Queer People of Color together since the summer of 2022. Instagram: @lavender.evolutions