Writer(s): Moises Kaufman
Producer(s): Declan Baldwin
Starring: Kathleen Chalfant, Laura Linney, Peter Fonda
Moises Kaufman's stageplay translates to the screen in a star-studded film documenting the effects of Matthew Sheppard's death on various citizens of Laramie, WY. A year after Matthew passed away, a group of five New Yorkers arrive in Laramie to interview members of the town about the murder. They sought out to create a stageplay in honor of Matthew Sheppard. They walked away with the words and emotions of a town still raw and forever changed by the loss of Matthew. 
Without fail, this movie has the ability to make me cry like a little baby. It will be ten years this October since Matthew's death. At the time, this film made waves in the minds of millions around the world. It changed many people's perception of prejudice and homophobia. Ten years later, this film is just as powerful as when it premiered.
As I watch this film, I am reminded of the numerous others who have died from violent attacks for being Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, Questioning or Allies. While their deaths may not have been as highly publicized as Matthew's, their deaths are definitely not forgotten as we strive for full equality. What surprises me about this film is the incredible Hollywood support yet again. Once again the usual support of Christina Ricci and Janeane Garafalo are a welcoming sight. As long time supporters of queer issues, their presence speaks more than words can say.
With other performances from admirable folk in mainstream Hollywood, this film launches from its rather humble beginnings to something more grand than ever imagined. One day, films such as these won't be marketed to just niche markets. Instead they will be as plenty as the mainstream sequels that rule the screens today.
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