Luke Gilford’s introduction to the International Gay Rodeo Association unfolded unexpectedly at a 2016 Pride event in Northern California. Drawn by the sound of Dolly Parton’s voice, he stumbled upon a group that would profoundly influence his life and career.
Intrigued by their authenticity, Gilford was struck by these genuine cowboys and felt compelled to visit New Mexico the following weekend. This serendipitous encounter ignited a passion that drove him to delve deeper into this unique subculture.
Over four years, Gilford traveled across the Southern United States with the gay rodeo group, documenting their lives through intimate portraits. This project culminated in his book, National Anthem. Gilford, an accomplished photographer and director known for working with high-profile celebrities and brands, found a new calling in capturing the essence of this vibrant LGBTQ community.
His immersion in their world inspired his first screenplay and directorial debut, also titled National Anthem, a film exploring themes of identity and belonging through the eyes of a young construction worker, Dylan.
The film, now showing in theaters, features Charlie Plummer as Dylan and a supporting cast including Eve Lindley, Rene Rosado, Mason Alexander Park, and Robyn Lively.
During a Q&A session with The Hollywood Reporter following an advanced screening, Gilford discussed his deep connection to the rodeo, which stems from his childhood experiences in Colorado, where his father was a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. This background laid the foundation for his appreciation of Western culture and the rodeo’s vibrant, multifaceted world.
Gilford recounted the spiritual experience of discovering the International Gay Rodeo Association at the Pride event. The group’s warmth and authenticity drew him in, and he spent years touring with them, documenting their lives and stories.
His initial intent to photograph the community evolved into a deeper engagement, leading to the creation of National Anthem. Gilford’s writing process involved distilling numerous personal stories into a narrative centered around a main character, reflecting his own experiences and those of the people he met.
The pandemic provided Gilford with an unexpected opportunity to refine his screenplay. With the help of co-writer David Largman Murray, he reworked the script, ultimately selling it to LD Entertainment.
Casting Charlie Plummer as Dylan was serendipitous, as Gilford had previously photographed him and felt an immediate connection to his potential for the role. Their shared vision and Plummer’s ability to convey emotion through body language made him the perfect fit for the character.
Eve Lindley was cast as Sky, another pivotal character, based on the recommendation of producer Zackary Drucker. Lindley’s naturalistic performance style and willingness to be vulnerable brought depth to her role.
Gilford aimed to create a film that highlighted the beauty and joy of the LGBTQ community, steering clear of the often-traumatic narratives associated with queer cinema. Instead, the National Anthem focuses on the celebration and resilience of this unique subculture.
Working with horses and capturing the essence of the rodeo presented challenges during the film’s 17-day shoot. Despite the difficulties, the project has had a profound impact on Gilford’s family, fostering deeper conversations and healing.
The film’s title, National Anthem, symbolizes the reclaiming of patriotic symbols by the LGBTQ community, emphasizing inclusivity and belonging. As Gilford looks to the future, he is eager to continue directing and creating projects that resonate with authenticity and passion.
