Welcome to the Miraculous Sanatorium for Cancerous Fairies! That’s what this remote ranch is called by its spirited occupants: gay biologist Suzano, trans performer Rose, and gay film student Humberto. They’re the heart of this vivid portrait the AIDS epidemic’s unfathomable early years. Beginning in the city of Vitória, the film explores a web of relationships, including Suzano’s sister and teenage nephew, before the trio retreat to the ranch to support each other, find treatments, and document what could be their final months.

The lead cast members are brilliant onscreen and fascinating off-screen! Trans artist Renata Carvalho brings love, heat, and lyricism as Rose. In real life, she caused a scandal by playing a trans Jesus on stage! As Suzaro, Johnny Massaro has breathtaking scenes merging rage and despair. The actor had been a closeted soap opera star; he came out publicly at this film’s world premiere.

THE FIRST FALLEN is an especially remarkable feat for Millennial filmmaker Rodrigo de Oliveira; he exquisitely conjures queer desire and community from a time before he was born. He told Variety that the film is “the loving imagination of lineage, the invention of my family tree.” His skill and fury turn this invented history into exhilarating and essential viewing.    

— Frank Danay