THE BIRTH OF A BEAUTIFUL BUTCH - Short Film

On senior picture day, Alex defies the standards imposed on her by her rigid Catholic school and embraces her authentic, butch self.

A queer, fashion narrative, " The Birth of a Beautiful Butch" needs your help. 


Andi Obarski is a second year Cinematography Fellow at the American Film Institute Conservatory. As part of her graduation portfolio, Andi needs to create a Non-Dialogue Visual Essay, the content of which is her choosing.

The conception of "The Birth of a Beautiful Butch" stems from Andi's own experience as a queer youth in the Catholic Faith.  The film's objective is to demonstrate the validation that is experienced when a LGBTQAA+ persons transcends the limitations of society’s standards through self-expression, specifically via fashion. Alex's liberation showcases the significant moments and decisions that can lead one to embrace oneself from the inside out.

 
"The Birth of a Beautiful Butch" is facilitated by the American Film Institute Conservatory, and will be shot on 35mm film. In 2020, AFI Conservatory was ranked #1 Film School in America by the Hollywood Reporter. The principal crew of this project: director, producer, production designer, and editor, all completing  their MFA’s in their specialized area. 

However, projects such as this are self funded... and we are in need of your help. 

The current landscape for filmmaking during COVID-19 has increased costs, as well as the difficulty of securing funding for films on an independent scale. Our goal of $8,000 will aid the safety of crew working through the pandemic, as well as fund creative factors necessary to tell Andi’s story.

We’re hoping this film’s visual language expands the understanding of audiences outside of the LGBTQQA+ audience. It is focused on elevating queer stories: both on screen and on set with those behind the camera. The project marks a move forward in our bid to change Hollywood’s representation, culture and cinema. 

We hope you’re able to help.