Filmmaker Statement

I wrote and directed “Rough River Lake” in response to a real-life chaotic weekend I spent at the actual Rough River Lake in Kentucky. While the real occurrence of homophobic violence occurred with only Leah (co-star in the film) and me as witnesses, the film version of “Rough River Lake” is an aspirational take on the story. I wondered: How would this trip have gone differently if we had our queer community to back us up? I believe chosen family is what provides queer folks peace in this violent world, and “Rough River Lake” portrays the journey to find that peace and maintain a sense of humor in the face of everyday misogyny and homophobia. This film was co-created with Leah Raidt.