In 2020, renowned photographer Luke Gilford published National Anthem, a striking visual chronicle of the queer community associated with the International Gay Rodeo Association. Growing up in the Southwest, Gilford was fascinated with rodeos, but felt excluded from a culture often marred by hyper-masculinity and homophobia. Upon discovering the IGRA, Gilford found a community where he felt included. He dedicated several years to document this eclectic community in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
"National Anthem," his debut feature film, centers on 21-year-old Dylan (played by Charlie Plummer), burdened with responsibilities way beyond his years, due to his mother's neglect. Dylan works tirelessly, taking care of his younger brother and saving up to buy an RV - his dream of freedom. His life takes a turn when he lands a two-week job at a mysterious ranch called House of Splendor, an idyllic community inhabited by queer rodeo riders. Here, Dylan encounters kind, respectful people living an harmonious life of ranch work, communal meals, and rodeo competitions.
The depiction of House of Splendor resonates powerfully with the notion of "chosen family", a concept meaningful to those ostracized or scorned by their own families. Significantly, the community, whilst enduring non-acceptance and trauma, comes across as not merely survivors, but people who are thriving distinctly within their own world.
Gilford’s film captures the spirit of inclusivity in the community in a visually poignant way, with spectacular imagery of landscapes, rodeo scenes, and the cast, particularly Dylan, magnifying his character's personal journey of self-discovery. Alongside the visually striking portrayal, the film establishes this community through an authentic embodiment of Western life, highlighting cowboy culture, rodeos, and a genuine respect for traditions, signaling their inclusion regardless of mainstream acceptance.
At its heart, "National Anthem" is not steeped in cliched romantic narratives. Though Dylan and trans woman Sky (Eve Lindley) share a beautiful bond, the film focuses primarily on Dylan's exploration of his identity and discovery of his chosen family. His eventual realization of a broader, accepting world offers a beacon of hope for himself and his little brother.
In this visually exquisite and profoundly touching narrative, "National Anthem" smartly avoids oversimplified binaries such as liberal versus conservative or urban versus rural. Gilford's reflection of his personal experiences and affection for the characters is tangible, offering audiences a brief but impactful immersion into this unique, vibrant world.
