Isabel Sandoval’s groundbreaking film “Lingua Franca” is finally receiving a release date in America thanks to Ava DuVernay’s ARRAY Releasing. The project caused a sensation at 2019’s Venice International Film Festival Venice Days program. It marked the first time a film directed by and starring an openly trans woman of color competed for top honors. This also marks another milestone for ARRAY as it builds an impressive lineup of projects from people of color and female filmmakers.
The film’s official synopsis:
“Lingua Franca follows the story of an undocumented Filipina trans woman Olivia (Sandoval) who is the live-in caregiver for Olga (Lynn Cohen – “Sex and the City“), an elderly Russian woman in Brooklyn’s Brighton Beach neighborhood. Olivia’s main priority is to secure a green card to stay in America, but when she unexpectedly becomes romantically involved with Olga’s adult grandson Alex (Eamon Farren – “Twin Peaks: The Return“, “The Witcher“), issues around identity, civil rights and immigration threatens Olivia’s very existence.”
Acclaimed filmmaker Isabel Sandoval is building a following thanks to thought-provoking and influential projects. Her newest cinematic contribution promises more of the hallmarks that have made Sandoval a name to watch. Not only does she assume directing and writing duties on the project, the multi-hyphenate goes further as lead actress and producer. Sandoval’s performance marks a return to features, her last leading role in 2011’s “Señorita.”
Also notable among the cast is Eamon Farren. The Australian actor boosted his profile with performances in projects such as “Chained” from director Jennifer Lynch, yet it would be another Lynch that would introduce him to larger audiences. “Twin Peaks: The Return” gave Farren the chance to shine in a villainous role that had audiences talking long after the event ended. The quiet, brooding, and destructive nature of Richard Horne provided space for the actor to show what he could do with the right elements. Sandoval’s project offers even more room to shine with a role far removed from that character.
“Lingua Franca” arrives in select theaters and on Netflix on August 26. Get your first look at the film’s trailer here.
