Matthew Fifer’s and Kiernan Mulcare’s directorial debut explores the role of sound in resurfacing traumas, the intersection between sexuality and race, and the challenge of opening oneself up to constructive pain. Chronicling the burgeoning relationship between Ben (Fifer) and Sam (Sheldon D. Brown), Cicada has all the ingredients for a quietly impactful film; only a lack of refinement leaves it–more simply–quiet.
Fifer not only directs but also writes and stars in this deeply personal film about surviving and processing molestation. After several awkward dates, relationships, and sexual encounters with women, Ben comes out to his family and friends as gay.
When he meets Sam, who is Black and closeted, they enter into a relationship that catalyzes confrontations with their own pasts. Both are nursing wounds from respective traumas; both are hiding pieces of themselves from their families. Complicating things is the potential for “performing” in their relationship–with Sam being Black, and Ben White, and with Ben being out, and Sam closeted–the film asks if it is possible for them to perform both too much and not enough.
Cicada moves along slowly, and in allowing many scenes to speak for themselves, it tries for subtlety. Ben makes a living painting house. Just the presence of one of his customers, an older man, evokes feelings of an unequal power dynamic between them and elicits a protective response from the audience towards Ben. The film’s dialogue, on the other hand, states everything explicitly. Although beautifully characterizing the two as individuals, the dialogue forces an unnatural progression of Ben’s and Sam’s relationship. Everything between them becomes too obvious, overstated. Oftentimes, little room is left for interpretation.
Cicada boasts moving themes if they don’t always connect so smoothly. An emotional and evocative story, if somewhat unpolished, Cicada will resonate with many viewers. However, its pool of untapped potential generates more excitement for what Fifer and Mulcare will do with future projects. A strong optional purchase for drama and LGBTQ+ library shelves.