Sophie Hyde’s latest film, Jimpa, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, weaving a poignant tale of love, family, and identity that transcends generations. Inspired by her personal experiences, Hyde co-wrote the screenplay with Matthew Cormack, blending elements of her life as the daughter of a gay father and the mother of a trans nonbinary teenager into a fictional narrative that resonates with universal truths.
Olivia Colman delivers a masterful performance as Hannah, a filmmaker grappling with her complex upbringing and evolving family dynamics. The story follows Hannah and her trans teenager, Frances—played by Hyde’s real-life child, Aud Mason-Hyde—on a visit to Amsterdam to reconnect with Jimpa, the family’s eccentric patriarch, portrayed by John Lithgow. Jimpa, a vibrant yet self-centered gay man surrounded by a close-knit group of aging friends known as the “aunties,” embodies resilience, having lived through the AIDS crisis and other struggles.
The film delicately navigates the emotional intricacies of family bonds. Frances’s announcement of plans to stay abroad with Jimpa for a year of high school study serves as a catalyst for Hannah to confront her own past. As the narrative unfolds, a pivotal moment emerges when Jimpa suffers a debilitating stroke, leaving him unable to speak. In a profoundly moving scene, Hannah communicates with her father through hand squeezes, creating a raw and tender exchange that underscores themes of reconciliation and unspoken truths.
Lithgow’s portrayal of Jimpa is one of his finest in recent years. His character’s unapologetic embrace of life, even at the cost of family relationships, is brought to life with nuance and depth. Lithgow’s bold performance, including moments of vulnerability and physicality, is complemented by Mason-Hyde’s authentic portrayal of a teenager navigating their identity.
Hyde masterfully captures the essence of a queer, multi-generational family, reflecting the universal challenges of love, acceptance, and individuality. Drawing from her own life experiences, Hyde crafts a narrative that emphasizes humanity above all else, sidestepping political debates to focus on the shared joys and sorrows that bind families together.
Produced by Liam Heyen, Hyde, Bryan Mason, and Marleen Slot, Jimpa features a strong supporting cast, including Daniel Henshall, Kate Box, Eamon Farren, and Zoe Love Smith. With its heartfelt storytelling and standout performances, the film celebrates LGBTQ+ culture while portraying family as a space for growth and understanding.
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