Here, Queer, and On TV

Introduction

In an era dominated by digital media and instant streaming, Cassandra Herrman’s 2026 documentary “Here, Queer, and On TV” serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of community and grassroots media. This 16-minute film delves into the legacy of Lavender Lounge, a public access television show that captivated San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community in the 1990s.

Story Overview

“Here, Queer, and On TV” is a compelling journey through the archives of Lavender Lounge, a pioneering queer and trans dance party and talk show that aired on public access television in the 1990s. The documentary captures the essence of this groundbreaking program, showcasing rare footage of San Francisco’s first Dyke March and the inaugural official Pride video. Directed by Cassandra Herrman, the film reunites the original crew—Mark Kliem, Mike Koch, Joe Labbe, Kathleen Donohue, and Rahn Fudge—with younger generations, highlighting the ongoing importance of preserving queer history. The narrative is interwoven with personal anecdotes and reflections, providing a vivid and intimate look at the show’s impact and the broader cultural context of the time.

Direction & Screenplay

Cassandra Herrman’s direction is both poignant and insightful, weaving together archival footage, new interviews, and personal testimonials to create a cohesive and emotionally resonant documentary. The screenplay, while brief, manages to cover a significant amount of ground, efficiently connecting the dots between the past and present. Herrman’s approach is documentary purism at its finest, allowing the subjects to speak for themselves and the historical footage to tell the story with minimal narrative intervention. This hands-off style is particularly effective in highlighting the authenticity and rawness of the Lavender Lounge era.

Performances

The main cast of “Here, Queer, and On TV” consists of the original Lavender Lounge crew, and their performances are nothing short of heartfelt and authentic. Mark Kliem, the creator of Lavender Lounge, brings a passionate and reflective energy to the film, sharing his vision and the challenges he faced in bringing the show to life. Mike Koch, Joe Labbe, Kathleen Donohue, and Rahn Fudge each contribute their unique perspectives, adding depth and nuance to the narrative. The younger generation of queer and trans individuals featured in the documentary also offer insightful and thought-provoking commentary, drawing parallels between the struggles of the past and the present. Standout moments include Kliem’s emotional recollections of the first Dyke March and Koch’s poignant reflections on the sense of community fostered by the show.

Music & Cinematography

The documentary is underscored by a minimalist yet effective score that enhances the emotional tone without overpowering the footage. The cinematography, while simple, is crisp and well-executed, with a particular focus on capturing the archival material in its full glory. The use of split-screen and overlay techniques during the interviews adds a dynamic element to the visual storytelling, keeping the viewer engaged throughout the 16-minute runtime.

Verdict

“Here, Queer, and On TV” is a succinct yet powerful tribute to a forgotten gem of queer media history. Despite its brevity, the documentary manages to convey the profound impact of Lavender Lounge on the San Francisco LGBTQ+ community and its relevance today. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolution of queer media and the importance of preserving LGBTQ+ history. While the TMDB rating of 0/10 is likely an anomaly, this documentary deserves a much higher score. I rate it 8/10, recommending it to all audiences, particularly those who value stories of community, resilience, and historical significance.