Queer Genoeg [Queer Enough]

We’re used to seeing the coming out story as the endpoint—the moment when everything falls into place. But for many LGBTQIA+ people, the real journey begins afterwards. Because even if you’re out, are you queer enough for queer spaces?

In the documentary Queer Genoeg, produced by Falkyfilm, we follow three people who question whether they are truly “queer enough.” David (30) often feels perceived as straight because of his clothing style and undesirable because of his body. Qianyu (30) struggles with her place in the queer nightlife scene, which is often dominated by gay men. Barbara (67) questions whether she still belongs after being in a relationship with a man for years. This rings especially true since she was also excluded from the women’s movement in the 1980s for also dating men. They explore their insecurities and past experiences together with other queer gymgoers.

Their stories are told in a mix of absurdist, fictional scenes—based on “expectation vs. reality” memes—and documentary footage of the gym and its production process. Common forms of exclusion within queer groups are discussed. Expectations of what constitutes a queer space are magnified, questioned, and ultimately put to the test at queer gym We Are Queer in Amsterdam. The film explores the pain of rejection and the desire to belong—and the happiness that follows once you’ve found your place. Queer Genoeg is published by 3lab/VPRO.