Two Zachs Fall In Love! Gay Rom-Com “Things Like This” Needs Your Help To Hit Big Screens
The Love Story We Need Right Now
When was the last time you saw a gay love story at your local cinema? Not recently. Since Bros came out in 2022, most of our stories have been sent straight to streaming. Yes, Red, White And Royal Blue did well online, but don’t you miss seeing our stories on the big screen?
Good news: a fresh film called Things Like This is coming to theatres on May 16. But here’s the twist – it needs our support to reach more screens.
Who is Max Talisman?
Meet Max Talisman. He wrote it. He directed it. And, yes, he stars in it, too. Talisman isn’t new to the scene, he’s acted in Orange Is the New Black, Search Party, and even shared screen time with J.Lo in Marry Me.
But as a plus-sized actor, Talisman faced a harsh truth. Hollywood doesn’t cast many people who look like him. So, his response was to start his own film company, Malibu Bro Productions, and create the film he wanted to see.
A Tale of Two Zachs
Set in busy Manhattan, the story follows Zach Anthony (played by Talisman), a writer who can’t seem to find love. Then fate steps in when he literally bumps into another Zach – Zach Mandel (Joey Pollari from Love, Simon).
Their connection goes deeper than just sharing a first name. After a first date that sends one Zach to the accident emergency department, they make a mind-blowing discovery: they were each other’s first kiss at sleep-away camp many years ago.
As the stars seem to align, real life throws its usual curve balls. Both Zachs must figure out what they truly want in love and in life.
A Cast That Brings the Story to Life
The film is packed with talent. Charlie Tahan from Ozark plays Zach A’s best friend. Jackie Cruz from Orange Is The New Black steps in as Zach M’s work buddy. Cara Buono from Stranger Things takes on the role of his tough boss.
Want more? The cast also features Nicholas Hamilton from It, Eric Roberts from The Dark Knight, Taylor Trensch from Broadway’s Dear Evan Hansen, and fan-favourite drag star Willam.
Your Chance to Help This Film Reach More Screens
At DNA, we know how important it is to see our stories in cinemas. Things Like This has started an Indiegogo campaign to help the film reach more theatres. You can support it here.
If you chip in, you won’t just be supporting queer cinema, you’ll get some cool perks too:
Want to see the film early? You can get streaming access before it goes public.
Love film music? There’s a vinyl soundtrack up for grabs.
Fashion fans can snag official T-shirts and hoodies.
You can even get your name in the film credits.
Private screenings are offered for the full VIP treatment.
And for the truly devoted? Max Talisman himself will set up a perfect NYC date for two lucky fans.
Why This Film Matters Now
We need more LGBTQIA+ stories in cinemas. This film offers authentic and funny storytelling from a plus-sized queer man’s point of view.
If you can help, please do. Mark May 16 on your calendar when Things Like This opens in what we hope will be lots of cinemas near you. Follow the film on social media for all the latest news.
Support independent LGBTQIA+ filmmaking and help bring this sweet, funny rom-com to the big screen where it belongs.
