Watch Coming of Age In Cherry Grove: The Invasion

Coming of Age In Cherry Grove: The Invasion is a fascinating and entertaining documentary that tells the story of the unique and quirky Cherry Grove community. The movie captures the spirit of the LGBTQ+ paradise as it delves into the history, culture, and way of life of this unusual seaside hamlet on Fire Island. Co-directed by Michael Fisher and Karen O'Sullivan, Coming of Age In Cherry Grove features interviews with some of the town's most prominent residents and longtime visitors, who share their memories and experiences of the community that has been a sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community for over a century.

The story unfolds through a combination of talking-head interviews and archival footage, highlighting the evolution of the town and the changes it has undergone through the years. It also features appearances by famous personalities like drag queen Robin Byrd, adult performer Logan Hardcore, and show promoter Daniel Nardicio, who share their insights into the unique world of Cherry Grove.

The movie is an eye-opener in more ways than one, showcasing the struggles, triumphs, and flamboyant personalities that have come to define this vibrant and loving community. Viewers will learn about the early days of Cherry Grove, when it was a haven for artists and writers, as well as its role as a hub for the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

The film also portrays the colorful characters that have called Cherry Grove home over the years, from the legendary Empress Risky, who lived to 98, to the iconic playwright Terrence McNally. The story also features fascinating tidbits about some of the local landmarks, such as The Ice Palace, the town's most famous bar and club.

The movie brings the town's unique spirit to life, capturing the sense of joy and fellowship that pervades the community. It also shines a light on the darker moments in the community's past, including the AIDS epidemic that hit Cherry Grove particularly hard.

Despite its look at the community's past, the movie is not stuck in nostalgia – far from it. The documentary boldly declares that Cherry Grove remains a vibrant and vital community, still attracting visitors and residents from all over the world. It features interviews with current residents who speak movingly about the enduring support, friendship, and growth they have found in the community.

In terms of the technical aspects of the movie, Coming of Age In Cherry Grove is impressively shot, with a keen eye for detail and an aesthetic that is both romantic and intoxicating. The filmmakers have done a great job of capturing the town's beauty and its unique history, managing to create a documentary that is both informative and visually stunning.

Overall, Coming of Age In Cherry Grove: The Invasion is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of the LGBTQ+ movement. It's a touching, insightful, and entertaining look at a town that has played a significant role in the struggle for equality and acceptance. The movie is an inspiring tribute to a community that has stood the test of time and remains a shining example of love, acceptance, and fellowship.

Coming of Age In Cherry Grove: The Invasion is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.