In a South Pacific nation comprised of many cultures, the diversity that comprises the transgender worldwide family is captured by the artistry of Rebecca Swan. The New Zealand photographer combines parallel artistic, activist and gender transformative processes in her work. Swan’s personal and spiritual connection to the gender variant talent makes each photograph more of a progression than an image. Assume Nothing delves deeper into those represented in Swan’s artwork as she collaborates with individuals who are given control over their representation. (Description courtesy of Frameline 2009.)

Ten years ago ‘The Screech’ was the hottest lesbian band around. Iris and Lily were the lead vocalists, MJ the producer, and Carol always went on tour with them. But the days of big dreams and wild nights have long since past. Sexy Iris now drinks too much and fantasises about a comeback that has yet to materialise. She and MJ split up years ago, but just can’t let go. Carol and Lily are so bored by their relationship that they can’t seem to decide on anything, except perhaps to have a child together. And then Cricket enters this Bermuda triangle of fallow desire, disappointment, anger and boredom. This argumentative twenty-year-old is looking for trouble – and finds it. After a pool party awash with cocaine and alcohol, Iris winds up on Cricket’s lap. This makes MJ – to whom Iris has been unfaithful so often before – even more furious. An argument ensues and escalates into a fight during which Cricket is badly injured and dies. The girlfriends decide to overcome their differences, pull together and get rid of the corpse. Their complicity creates a firm bond. But then, a year later, Skye turns up on Lily and Carol’s doorstep. Revenge is her aim and seduction her strategy … (Description courtesy of The Berlinale)