Vintage: Families of Value

Harris? new feature documentary, VINTAGE (1995, 72 min., video) closely examines the lives of three sets of gay siblings; three lesbian sisters, a gay man and his dyke sister, and Harris himself and his brother, Lyle.

The film explores the relationships within these African American families, and the similarities and contrasts between them. Each relationship evolves through a number of visual and narrative devices such as role playing, staged fantasies, straightforward interviews and home movies. Stories of misunderstanding, abuse, incest and AIDS are balanced against demonstrations of mutual support and love. Harris maintains a delicate balance between including himself in the family narratives and stepping back to allow the differences and subtleties of each situation to unfold.