Rhinestones, Hairspray, Nail Polish, and Tight Denim

Luke Gilford has always been familiar with the world of rodeos, influenced by his father, a rider in the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. As a prominent gay celebrity and fashion photographer, Gilford’s lens naturally gravitated towards the queer rodeo circuit, resulting in his 2020 debut photography book, “National Anthem: America’s Queer Rodeo.”

It’s this very work that inspired Gilford’s feature directorial debut, also titled “National Anthem.” Co-written with Kevin Best and David Largman Murray, the film stars Charlie Plummer as Dylan, a young man who starts working on a ranch that houses queer rodeo performers. An unforeseen romance develops between him and a trans woman, played by Eve Lindley, as he forms a deep connection with his new chosen family.

During a Zoom interview, Gilford, donned in his signature cowboy hat and denim shirt, expressed his sentiments: “‘Brokeback Mountain’ was almost 20 years ago. Those were straight actors, and it was a tragedy. ‘National Anthem’ features real people. Many from the actual [rodeo] community are in the film. It’s about tenderness, love, celebration, and queer joy instead of tragedy. I’m excited for this moment. Audiences are really responding warmly, often dressing up for the theatrical experience.”

The movie received several awards during its festival circuit, including best first feature at San Francisco’s Frameline and best debut director at London’s Raindance Film Festival. Reflecting on his success, Gilford shared a humorous anecdote: “My dentist texted me the other day saying I might need an extra room for all these awards.”

For Gilford, sharing these moments with his parents has been particularly meaningful: “It’s very cool to be able to share it with my mom and dad.” However, Gilford admitted there was initial hesitation about discussing the queer rodeo circuit with his father. “I was concerned he might think it’s like the Village People,” he said. “Growing up around real cowboys, I knew this wasn’t just a costume—it was a genuine way of life. It wasn’t until the book materialized that my dad really understood its importance. My parents even have my book displayed at home, which is such a beautiful gesture for our relationship.”

Given his background in photography and the success of his book, many have asked Gilford why he didn’t make a documentary about the queer rodeo. He addressed this by emphasizing authenticity: “I didn’t want a fully scripted piece where we staged rodeos. The authenticity of the real community was essential, but I also wanted to tell a narrative. I love working with actors and weaving performances with the real community. Additionally, I aimed to avoid the typical traumatic storylines. A documentary might have veered in that direction.”

Gilford stressed the importance of focusing on themes of queer joy and celebration: “These stories of trauma have all been told. Where are the stories about queer joy, celebration, and love within these communities? Because that’s real too, and especially now, we need hope.”

Addressing the mainstream perception of rodeos, Gilford remarked, “Rodeo is a form of drag performance. There’s rhinestones, hairspray, nail polish, and tight denim. Even mainstream rodeo has elements of drag.”

“National Anthem” is currently showing in theaters.

Source: Parade, People