Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival 2009

Social exploration and personal drama come together in PAOLO, a rare and heartfelt look into South American gay culture and families. Paolo, a young, out Peruvian immigrant living in New York, finally decides to get all of the pieces of his life together. He sets out with his sister to reconnect with his beloved country after being away for eight years and to find the father who left his family when he was only seven years old. In a society that Paolo fears might not accept him, his family is colorful and fun to watch, with his mother and rainbow flag–waving grandmother as standouts. Full of beautiful cinematography of Peru, the film follows Paolo as he interviews gay youth, reconciles his origins with memories of rejection and loss, and discovers the importance of self-acceptance and family in this poignant, charming documentary about the slow evolution of society and individuals.