Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival 2009

From playing with dolls to stealing away for steamy make-out sessions in the barn, Hannah and Rachel’s childhood friendship grows deeper with time, blossoming into a passionate relationship that spans two lifetimes. Hannah, a tough, free-spirited, unapologetic lesbian, leaves their Midwestern hometown to travel the globe in search of adventure, but she always returns home to her true love, Rachel. Meanwhile, Rachel, the quiet, strong homemaker with a husband and a daughter, is happy living her small-town life. While at first open to their clandestine love affair, over time Rachel questions why Hannah keeps insisting on leaving the life they could have together.

Now advanced in years, Hannah and Rachel are in the same nursing home just a few floors away from each other. Hannah is forbidden to see the comatose Rachel because she is not an "official" family member. In the confines of her room, an introspective Hannah reminisces about her life with Rachel through vivid flashbacks of their childhood bond turned deep love that endured despite a marriage, a world war, and meddling family members.

HANNAH FREE, based on an award-winning play of the same name, stars the incomparable Sharon Gless, who broke barriers over 25 years ago as the star of “Cagney & Lacey,” the first television drama to feature two women in the lead roles. Gless superbly portrays Hannah with outspoken wit, stubborn brooding, and gruff charm, while she reflects on her lifelong struggle to reconcile her independent spirit with the woman she called home. The Seattle Lesbian & Gay Film Festival is thrilled to bring back “home” former Seattle filmmaker Wendy Jo Carlton, who directed the first two trailers for our festival, and now returns with her extraordinary feature film debut.

In attendance at the screening: Star Sharon Gless, Director Wendy Jo Carlton, and Producer Tracy Baim.

Your ticket includes the Closing Night Gala at the Pan Pacific Hotel. Enjoy delicious food and taste a variety of refreshing beverages--all included in your ticket price. Thank you: Pan Pacific Hotel (2125 Terry Ave), City Catering Company, Whole Foods Market Westlake, Tutta Bella, Cupcake Royale, Ménage à Trois - Official Wine Sponsor, Redhook, Party with the Boys, Cha Dao Tea