Representing Resistance: Ayse Toprak's 'Mr Gay Syria' and LGBTQIA+ Rights

Going beyond the generalised figure of the powerless, oppressed refugee peddled by mainstream media, Mr Gay Syria offers viewers rounded, more human depictions of those who have been forced to depart their homes in search of safety – in this case, homing in on the plight of LGBTQIA+ Syrians. Gabrielle O'Brien tackles the astute portrayals and powerful political messages at the heart of Ayse Toprak's documentary, which uses the eponymous pageant as its springboard.

Additional keywords:
Asian cinema, activism, LGBT, queer, activism, Husein Sabat, displacement, asylum.