Filmmakers Julia Ponce Díaz and Nicolás Blanco are making waves with their new short film, Cowboy, Choker, Harness & Heart, a raucous and unapologetic look at queer desire and connection.
The film, which has been making the rounds at LGBTQ+ film festivals, takes place almost entirely within the cramped, chaotic confines of a club bathroom, turning a typically private space into a stage for a raw and humorous narrative.
Co-written by Blanco, the film was inspired by a real-life encounter that spiraled into an unexpected flirtation. He explained that the goal was to capture the “mess, intimacy, and humor” that are often missing from mainstream depictions of queer nightlife.
The story centers on a character named Cowboy, who is caught making out with another man, Harness, just as his boyfriend, Heart, walks into the bathroom. The tension that unfolds from this tight, explosive premise is the core of the film’s narrative.
According to Ponce Díaz, the film’s authenticity is no accident. The creative team, including the cast, was largely composed of LGBTQ+ artists and filmmakers, many of whom were “street cast” from the very communities the film represents. This collaborative approach allowed the film to capture the nuances of queer subcultures—from the tell-tale accessories like chokers and harnesses to the specific slang and humor that define the community.
Since its premiere at film festivals like Outfest and NewFest, Cowboy, Choker, Harness & Heart has been praised for its fearless portrayal of queer intimacy and its refusal to either glamorize or sanitize the realities of nightlife.
The film’s unique setting and kinetic energy have resonated with audiences, proving that the most compelling stories can often be found in the most unexpected places.
As a short film, it’s not currently in wide theatrical release, and there are no streaming platforms where it is available at this time. Watch this space for updates.
WATCH THE TRAILER:
https://youtu.be/c2A09rSVSb0?si=wRoxWFaXviGNLcIa
