FREEMAN: The Story of a Gay Rights Trailblazer by Director John Sutherlin

When dear friends from America's deep south rise above humble beginnings and do great things, I feel a rush of joy that our origins don't define us. Artists and thinkers like Truman Capote, The Reverend Fred Lane, William S Burroughs, Hakeem Oluseyi, Flannery O'Connor or groups like The Flaming Lips and The Butthole Surfers prove that the adversity of Southern origins can be a boost depending on how you look at it. Having graduated Louisiana Tech University, a small school in the rolling hills of North Louisiana, I can vouch for humble beginnings. It's from this perspective that I view the latest cinematic opus of my collegiate friend John Sutherlin: FREEMAN.

I hope to arrange a screening of his film in Tampa, so this post is primarily a vehicle to inform my film friends in the area about this opportunity. Feel free to reach out to me or directly to John Sutherlin to obtain rights to show it. Lucky audiences from La Jolla to New Orleans and from Durban, South Africa to Berlin Germany have seen FREEMAN at film festivals. I think it's time Tampa got on this list. 

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Synopsis

Charles Freeman Stamper, aka Stephanny, was more than a Drag Queen, more than a rags-to-riches story, and certainly more than expectations others had of him. Freeman was a secretary, a decorated Veteran, an advisor to beauty pageants, an advocate for Gay rights, and an amazing square dancer! He defied the Supreme Court and made an impact on countless lives through his generosity and courage. This film captures a life worth living and worth discovering. His was an authentic life. And in the end...he gave it all away to help others. As Freeman said, "I'd give you the dress off my back!"

FREEMAN Trailer

Bio

John W. Sutherlin, PhD, was born in El Dorado, Arkansas, in 1968. He completed his graduate work in New Orleans and is a patented inventor, author, producer, and director of more than 26 films. He is a frequent speaker at international conferences. As a producer and director, his film crew is arguably the most diverse and competent of any team. They have worked together for more than 25 years! His films have received international awards and been translated into dozens of languages.

Interview with Dr. John Sutherlin