Cloris Leachman’s Last Film 'Jump, Darling' Is a Queer Tale of Family
Jump, Darling premiers in theaters on March 11.The film, written and directed by Phil Connell, also stars newcomer Thomas Duplessie, who plays Russell, an aspiring actor and drag performer — known as Fishy Falters — who seeks refuge at his grandmother’s (Leachman) house in the Canadian wine country.When Russell goes to grandmother, Margaret, she’s grasping for her own independence as she comes to terms with her age and mortality.Russell tries to adjust to his new surroundings — trying to work at the local dive bar and flirting with the curious busboy, Zachary.
His mother and Margaret’s daughter (played by Linda Kash) wants to protect her mother and have her live in a retirement home.“As tempers wear thin and family secrets are revealed, Russell and Margaret fight to maintain their dignity while being true to themselves,” the film's synopsis states.The film, Connell said in a release, came from his own experiences having end-of-life care conversations with his grandmother and his experience choosing life as an artist.“Over a period of years, my late grandmother struggled with how to prepare for her ‘decline’ — be it physical or mental,” Connell said.
