Elliot Page on His New Indie Film, “Close to You”
By Michael Coppola
On March 15th, 2024 the BFI Flare LGBTQ+ Film Festival occurred in London. Elliot Page, the actor most known for his roles in Juno and The Umbrella Academy, had just joined director Dominic Savage and co-stay Hilary Baack for the red carpet premiere of their latest film, “Close to You.” A day after the special BFI Flare screening, an interview with Page took place.
This interview focused on promoting “Close to You.” According to BFI Flare’s website, Page expressed his hope that UK audiences would connect with the film. He praised the collaborative spirit on set, calling his work with Savage “magical” and hinting at a desire to work together again in the future.
In another recent interview with Elliot Page about “Close to You”, he described the film as a career highlight, showing he had a deep personal connection with the film. “Close to You” explores the complex ideas of family bonding, self-discovery, and the need for connection, those of which can resonate to Page’s own journey as a trans man. While the film is not directly a transgender narrative, Page’s lived experience helps with the depth he brings to the character of Sam, who navigates similar territory.
The BFI Flare interview provided a moment for Page to connect with the London LGBTQ+ community. His appearance at the festival showed the importance of visibility and inclusion. Page’s moment of coming out as transgender in December 2020 made him a powerful voice in the LGBTQ+ community. Since then, he continuously uses his platform to talk about LGBTQ+ and Transgender rights and inspire self-acceptance with the community. One can expect that Page’s dedication to queer visibility and his passion for filmmaking were clear themes throughout his interview.
Beyond the interview, Page’s presence at BFI Flare sent a powerful message. His participation in the film festival normalizes LGBTQ+ narratives and shows the importance of LGBTQ+ stories being told by and for the community. Having a prominent actor like Page discuss his work inspires young trans and LGBTQ+ actors and makes them feel a sense of belonging in the film and TV community.
Elliot Page’s participation in the BFI Flare interview was more than a simple promotional opportunity. It became a platform for connection, inspiration, and celebration of diversity. By openly discussing his work within an LGBTQ+ film festival, Pages sent a powerful message of inclusion and empowered aspiring LGBTQ+ actors. With the UK premiere of “Close To You” approaching, the interview served well in heightening anticipation for the fill but also its exploration of themes that resonate deeply with Page and the community.
About the Author
Michael J Coppola is a passionate 16 year old who has been a performer in theatre and arts since he was 6 years old. Just recently he had the honor of being welcomed to be part of the Be A Friend Project (BAFP) Teen Kindness Board. Some of Michael’s interests include makeup, fashion, and especially singing and acting. At school he enjoys learning Chinese and writing, in hopes to write his first musical in the future. Michael identifies as Gay and Gender Queer and has been advocating for the rights of LGBTQ+ youth since he was very young. He hopes that his work can positively impact others.
