Review by Rona Wiener
A candid and touching portrayal of the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell experience, this film stays away from the politics and instead shares a very personal perspective. Through a kaleidoscope of intermingled memories and interactions, we slowly get to see the lesbian military life through the eyes of Alex (Dreya Weber) as she visits her home town. Raised with a strong focus on a proud history of service, Alex presents a tough front while struggling to come to terms with recent events and dealing with sexism and homophobia from the small town locals. She also takes on the role of “drill sergeant” for Saffron (Paris Pickard), a troubled young woman forced to join the army as an alternative to jail time. Their strained friendship seems to be exactly what they both needed. The poignant subject matter and intense situations give this movie a very authentic feel.
A Marine Story will be shown at Tampa Theatre on Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. as part of the Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.
