Screened as part of NZIFF 2023

Mutt 2023

Directed by Vuk Lungulov-Klotz

A young trans man must summon all his resilience to endure a whirlwind 24 hours in New York City as his foreign father, his straight ex-boyfriend and his 13-year-old sister are all thrust back into his life.

USA In English and Spanish with English subtitles
87 minutes Colour / DCP

Director, Screenplay

Producers

Alexander Stegmaier
,
Stephen Scott Scarpulla
,
Vuk Lungulov-Klotz
,
Jennifer Kuczaj
,
Joel Michaely

Cinematography

Matthew Pothier

Editor

Adam Dicterow

Production Designer

Alanna Murray

Costume Designer

Elena Lark

Music

James William Blades
,
Taul Katz

Cast

Lío Mehiel
,
Cole Doman
,
Alejandro Goic
,
Jasai Chase Owens
,
Jari Jones
,
MiMi Ryder

Festivals

Berlin
,
Sundance
,
New Directors/New Film 2023

Elsewhere

“A compelling character-based drama that reveals the interior life of a young trans man over roughly 24 hours in New York City, Mutt follows Feña (Lío Mehiel) as he tries to navigate a series of events that would be stressful for anyone. Piling on setbacks that specifically challenge someone still working out how to reintroduce himself to old friends and family members, writer-director Vuk Lungulov-Klotz—who is also trans—makes audiences acutely conscious of Feña’s emotional state at every turn. Mutt which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, sees the first-time director creatively using the medium to illustrate how small incidents can chip away at a trans person’s self-confidence and the strength it takes to stay true to that identity.” — Murtada Elfadl, Variety

“Vuk Lungulov-Klotz makes a solid debut with a personal story, shaping the standout moments with an expressive attention to detail and a sensual edge. Executive produced by trailblazer of the genre Silas Howard, who along with Harry Dodge put the first trans-masculine character onscreen with their 2001 Sundance debut By Hook or Crook, Mutt signals an exciting evolution for contemporary trans cinema.” — Jude Dry, Indiewire

“A warm and open performance from actor Lío Mehiel, coupled with a steady authenticity and emotional truthfulness, make Mutt an appealing 24-hours-in-New-York drama from newcomer Vuk Lungulov-Klotz.” — Fionnuala Halligan, Screendaily