The Sapphic Cinephile

As all queer folks know, the closet is not just a place to hang your flannels. The closet is where we queer folks spend most of our formative years. Now, I don’t mean this literally. We’re not just locked in a closet for years on end. Rather, this infamous closet is a metaphor used to describe whether or not a queer person is open to the world about their sexuality and/or gender identity. Slowly, the idea of “coming out” has ironically been making it’s way out and people are steering away from formally declaring their identity. Nevertheless, the closet still exists for many.

In Shiva Baby the idea of the closet is quite prevalent. The film follows Danielle, a young queer Jewish woman just trying to find herself. She is constantly seeking the approval of her parents. Danielle often lies about her life, especially her sketchy source of income, in order to keep her parents happy. On this particular day, Danielle attends the shiva (Jewish funeral service) of someone she doesn’t really know because her parents insisted she join. Most of the film takes place in the small, overcrowded home that is hosting the repast.

While entering the home, Danielle is met with her ex-girlfriend Maya. While her parents and community know of the former relationship between Danielle and Maya, they do not approve. There is clear tension between the two and it’s not solely because of the cramped environment they’re trying to navigate. As I mentioned, Danielle often lies in order to gain others approval. Especially since her ex-girlfriend is more successful in the eyes of their community. However, Maya sees right through Danielle’s lies. Unlike Danielle’s parents and her community, Maya knows the real Danielle.

Danielle is not only met by her ex-girlfriend, but her current sugar daddy Max. While her parents and community know of the former relationship between Danielle and Maya, they have not a clue about Danielle and Max. Truth be told, Danielle and Max were unaware of the fact that they were apart of the same community. Oh, did I mention that Max is married and has a baby? Didn’t think it could get any worse did you?

How does the metaphor of a closet fit into the film Shiva Baby? Well, just like a closet, the environment Danielle is maneuvering through is quite tight. Throughout the entire film, Danielle is attempting to run away from the truth. However, that is quite difficult to do in such a confined space. Danielle cannot run forever. In order for Danielle to be free, she must end the lies.

Overall, this film was uncomfortable in a good way. The camera work really adds to the chaos and anxiety. I found myself holding my breath at times. For those who have not seen Shiva Baby, the second-hand embarrassment is strong and tread lightly if you’re claustrophobic.