In 2005, 500 families boarded
the first gay and lesbian family cruise to the Caribbean. It was chartered by
Rosie (A League of Their Own, "Queer as Folk," "Will and
Grace," "The Rosie O'Donnell Show") and Kelly O'Donnell, and this
documentary follows the comedian and her wife and children as well as a number
of other families throughout the cruise. Although I feared boredom, watching
lgbt families enjoying themselves in a non-judgmental and celebratory atmosphere
quickly became emotional. It's great to see all of the joy, tears and laughter. Several
couples go through marriage ceremonies during the trip. The teenagers also seem
to get a lot out of spending time with peers who understand the pressures they
face at home. Former professional football player Esera Tuaolo is there with his
partner and their two young children, and several comedians perform on stage for
the crowd. But it's not all fun and frolic. Two churches organize a protest
in the Bahamas to greet the boat, loud and full of hate, although other residents
stop to tell the cameras that these people don't represent the majority on the
island. In Key West, Florida, by contrast, the passengers are thrown a parade
for their arrival. It's a nice celebratory slice of life, and most likely
especially meaningful for those with children.
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