AceShowbiz - Perfect is a queer drama directed and co-written by Millicent Hailes, which premiered on March 12 at the State Theatre during the SXSW Film & TV Festival. The film explores a dystopian world where a contaminated water supply has devastated society, centering on Kai, played by Ashley Moore, a homeless woman struggling to survive after a painful breakup.

In the midst of hardship, Kai discovers a secret utopian lake with pure water where life thrives. This hidden sanctuary becomes a refuge for a group of unique individuals, all carrying stories of loss and hope. Among them is Mallory, portrayed by Julia Fox, an affluent pregnant woman escaping reality through her fantasies. Despite their contrasting lives, Kai and Mallory develop a passionate romance that deepens as secrets come to light.

The serene lake setting sharply contrasts with the darker undercurrents as Mallory’s hidden truths begin to threaten both their relationship and the community's fragile peace. The film’s narrative highlights queer characters living authentically without their identities being the sole focus, offering a fresh perspective on queer storytelling.

At the SXSW panel, Millicent Hailes shared the inspiration behind Perfect, explaining that she wanted to move beyond her previous work in music videos to create a longform project that truly resonated with her. She emphasized her goal to uplift queer voices and present queer characters who simply exist in the world without their queerness defining the story.

Joining the discussion were cinematographer Ksusha Genenfeld and actors Lío Mehiel and Micaela Wittman, who contributed to the film's distinctive vision and portrayal of its themes. The film is being represented by Visit Films and stands out as a compelling addition to the festival’s lineup.

Perfect reflects a commitment to authentic queer storytelling set against a backdrop that blends hope, survival, and complex human connections. It showcases the vibrant creativity emerging from independent cinema at SXSW 2024.