Lez Bomb (2018)

Lez Bomb Poster

A closeted young woman brings her girlfriend home for Thanksgiving, only to have her coming-out efforts thwarted by the unexpected arrival of her male roommate.

Film Overview
"Lez Bomb" is a 2018 American comedy-drama movie written and directed by Jenna Laurenzo. Released on November 9, 2018, the movie is a hilarious and heartwarming Thanksgiving-themed story about coming out to one's family. The movie features an outstanding cast consisting of Jenna Laurenzo, Caitlin Mehner, Brandon Micheal Hall, Steve Guttenberg, Elaine Hendrix, Deirdre O'Connell, Rob Moran, Davram Stiefler, and Cloris Leachman.

Plot Summary
The movie follows the lead character Lauren (played by Jenna Laurenzo), a closeted lesbian who decides it's time to come out to her family throughout the Thanksgiving vacation. Lauren plans to present her longtime sweetheart Hailey (Caitlin Mehner) to her eccentric family, with hopes of revealing her sexual preference. However, things do not go as prepared for due to a series of comical miscommunications and misadventures.

Prior to Lauren can tell her parents about her identity and relationship with Hailey, her male roomie Austin (Brandon Micheal Hall) arrives unwanted. This causes Lauren's household mistakenly thinking that Austin is her partner. In spite of Lauren's efforts to communicate her truth, each celebration is met with disturbances, frequently guiding the discussion away. Lauren continues dealing with her honest discovery throughout the whole family gathering.

Characterization and Themes
Laurenzo remarkably executes the role of Lauren, showcasing the stress and anxiety, awkardness, and the frustrating sense of relief in coming out. Supporting characters also provide hilarious moments, including Lauren's unaware but well-meaning daddy (Steve Guttenberg) and her free-spirited grandma (Cloris Leachman).

"Lez Bomb" authentically portrays the battle of coming out, stabilizing the major elements with humor. The movie brings forth the style of acceptance, love, and releasing pretense. It catches the essence of familial love and the courage needed to live authentically regardless of social norms.

Critical Reception
"Lez Bomb" received combined reactions from critics. Some applauded its lighthearted technique to a fear-inducing and life-altering event like a person's coming-out, however others criticized it for focusing more on comedic undertones rather of the psychological depth.

In spite of the disparate views, the film amassed appreciation for its representation of LGBTQ+ characters and issues. "Lez Bomb" won the Jury Award for Best Film at the Geena Davis-founded Bentonville Film Festival, thus securing theatrical distribution.

Conclusion
"Lez Bomb" is a heartwarming, amusing, and poignant film that explores the journey of coming out to household and the turmoil that can take place. It blends relatable household dynamics with the unique obstacles of revealing one's true identity. Laurenzo makes sure that the film is not just another comical romp but a considerable story about self-acceptance, sincerity, and the withstanding love of household, making "Lez Bomb" a significant addition to LGBTQ+ cinema.

Top Cast

  • Jenna Laurenzo (small)
    Jenna Laurenzo
    Lauren Anderson
  • Caitlin Mehner (small)
    Caitlin Mehner
    Hailey
  • Brandon Micheal Hall (small)
    Brandon Micheal Hall
    Austin
  • Steve Guttenberg (small)
    Steve Guttenberg
    Mike
  • Elaine Hendrix (small)
    Elaine Hendrix
    Maggie
  • Deirdre O'Connell (small)
    Deirdre O'Connell
    Rose Anderson
  • Rob Moran (small)
    Rob Moran
    Ken
  • Davram Stiefler (small)
    Davram Stiefler
    John
  • A.B. Cassidy (small)
    A.B. Cassidy
    Emma
  • Jordyn DiNatale (small)
    Jordyn DiNatale
    Jessica
  • Bruce Dern (small)
    Bruce Dern
    Grandpa