By Lauren Means
What do the characters Poussey from Orange Is the New Black, Castiel from Supernatural, Lexa from The 100, and Shay from Chicago Fire all have in common? They all fell victim to the TV troupe known as “bury your gays.” This is a common theme seen in mainstream television with popular LGBTQ+ characters who are seen as more expendable than their heterosexual counterparts.
In a media landscape where authentic LGBTQ+ representation remains sparse, this is something Tello Films has been working hard to change. Celebrating over 17 years of groundbreaking work, Tello Films has steadfastly committed to producing diverse and genuine stories, particularly focusing on lesbian narratives. The company’s journey, marked by significant achievements and persistent challenges, offers a compelling look into the evolution of LGBTQ+ media.
Reflecting on the early days of Tello Films, Christin Baker, founder, shares a sense of awe and accomplishment. “When we first started, our goal was just to keep going,” she recalled. The initial aim was modest: to create a platform for authentic LGBTQ+ stories. Over the years, Tello Films has exceeded those early aspirations, now hosting over 50 films and more than 30 web series, even earning Emmy nominations. This impressive growth underscores the steadfast support from viewers and creators and the enduring demand for authentic representation.
The motivation behind Tello Films was the glaring lack of lesbian-focused content. Today, while there is more lesbian representation in mainstream media, challenges persist. Baker notes, “We’ve seen several lesbian stories canceled prematurely, which is disheartening.” GLAAD’s recent report highlighting a 30% decrease in LGBTQ characters in 2024 further emphasizes the ongoing struggle. Despite these setbacks, Tello Films remains dedicated to its mission, providing nuanced and respectful representations of lesbian lives.
Going back to that persistent issue in screenwriting of “bury your gays,” Baker said this generally stems from a lack of diversity in writers’ rooms and reflects a limited understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences. “Many writers may fall back on outdated and harmful clichés because they don’t fully grasp the impact these stories have on the community. Additionally, queer characters are sometimes used to create dramatic tension or emotional impact, resulting in their premature deaths,” explained Baker. In contrast, Tello Films aims to challenge these narratives, showcasing the full spectrum of lesbian experiences and ensuring their stories are told with respect and authenticity.
The future of Tello Films is bright and ambitious. The company has several exciting projects on the horizon and plans to expand its library with more authentic LGBTQ+ stories and explore innovative ways to engage audiences. They are developing original films that delve deeper into diverse LGBTQ+ narratives and plan to add a Holiday RomCom to their offerings this season. The popular show “Lez Go!” will explore more vibrant destinations and stories and a new love course aims to help people find meaningful connections.
“With shows like ‘Lez Go!’ and our new love course, we’re pushing beyond traditional media,” shared Baker. By nurturing new talent and supporting emerging voices, Tello Films aims to remain at the forefront of LGBTQ+ media, striving to become as renowned in the community as “The L Word.” Collaborations with emerging filmmakers will also bring fresh and unique voices to the platform, ensuring a dynamic future for Tello Films.
Having spent considerable time in Middle Tennessee and also traveling the globe, Baker has observed a significant shift in attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community. “When I came out in 1997, there wasn’t nearly the acceptance that exists today. Returning to the area, I’ve found a very different city from the one I left. Over the years, there’s been a growing acceptance and understanding, with more visibility and support for LGBTQ+ individuals,” she reflected. Baker noted local organizations and events have played a crucial role in fostering this change, creating safe spaces and promoting inclusivity. “While challenges and resistance still exist, it’s encouraging to see more allies joining the cause and advocating for equal rights and acceptance in the region. Our state legislature, on many levels, is not keeping up with the changing landscape,” she said.
WIth more visibility and support for the community, more doors are opening for individuals within the industry. For those looking to break into filmmaking, Baker offers valuable advice: “Be persistent and passionate. Start by telling stories that matter to you, even if they are small projects.” She emphasized the importance of a supportive community, seeking mentors, and leveraging available resources to hone one’s craft. Above all, staying true to one’s vision and pushing forward despite challenges is crucial in the often tough film industry.
Community support is what keeps Tello Films going. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support and enthusiasm of our audience. Your passion and feedback drive us to create the best possible content. We’re always looking for ways to innovate and improve, so stay tuned for more updates and surprises,” Baker affirmed. She encourages everyone to stay engaged with Tello Films on social media, participate in their community events, and share their content with friends and family. “Together, we can continue to elevate LGBTQ+ stories and make a lasting impact. Thank you for being part of the Tello Films family!”
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