Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America

Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America is a captivating 2017 documentary that unfurls the inspiring life story of Moises Serrano, an undocumented migrant and gay man in rural North Carolina. Directed by filmmakers Tiffany Rhynard and Kathi Barnhill, the documentary weaves within its reel the dimensions of sexuality, migration, and the quest for belonging in the conservative south.

Living in unwilling anonymity and spending his youth in the smokescreen of rural America, Serrano finds himself at the convergence of some of America's most politically charged issues—immigration and LGBTQ rights. The film explores the difficulties of Serrano's double-marginalized existence, as he grapples to establish his identity growing up as an ‘alien’ in a not so accepting environment, challenged by both his status as an outsider and his coming-out in a rigidly conservative society.

The documentary chronicles Serrano's journey from an arrival as an infant into the United States from Mexico— with no say in the matter—to growing up embracing his gay identity and surviving in an environment that was harsh for quieter voices. His decision to fight for the very system that has kept him under the radar for most of his life is a testament to his resilience and constitutes a significant portion of the narrative.

Politics lies at the heart of the film as much as Serrano's distinctly human experience. It presents a unique vantage point to discuss controversial issues such as, The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and The Dream Act that are typically associated with waves of national debate. The filmmakers represent Serrano's story as a beacon of light amid such politically charged discussions, injecting a dose of empathy and understanding that’s often obscured by the political and ideological rhetoric.

'Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America' does not solely limit its focus to a political discourse; rather, it talks at length about subjects of love, hope, and dreams as universal human truths. Serrano's relationship with his lifelong friend, Brandon, forms an integral part of the film. It is a powerful representation of acceptance and love in its purest form, providing a poignant picture of Serrano's life behind the political struggles.

Without relying heavily on the dramatics of the subject matter, Rhynard and Barnhill portray Serrano's life with an astute sensitivity that challenges the viewer’s preconceived notions and emotional biases about these subjects. The tranquility of rural North Carolina contrasts sharply with the magnitude of Serrano's inner turmoil, adding a subtle dramatic depth to the narrative.

The film also effectively incorporates Serrano’s personal experience into the larger plight of the undocumented queer community living in the United States, adding additional layers to the subject matter and opening up a dialogue on acceptance, belonging, and the pursuit of the American dream.

'Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America' impresses upon the viewer that love, hope, identity, dreams, and freedom are not privileges, but rights. As Serrano’s journey unfolds on screen, viewers are reminded that these are not matters confined to the political arena, but reside at the heart of daily life, in rural America and beyond.

Moises Serrano's captivating story will not only evoke emotions but also push the boundaries of your thoughts and beliefs. The film compellingly argues for the need to reform the structures that tend to deny a sense of belonging to ‘outsiders,’ ultimately making a universal appeal: for understanding, acceptance, and the right to dream.

In exploring these themes, 'Forbidden: Undocumented and Queer in Rural America' becomes more than a documentary. It evolves into a vivid portrait of one individual’s brave pursuit to claim their rightful space in society and a broader commentary on our need as a collective to define what that society should be. Through Serrano's inspiring journey of survival and courage, the filmmakers challenge us to rethink our own perceptions of what it means to be American.