Sam Smith and Munroe Bergdorf celebrate ‘all queer bodies’ in alternative ‘Qweens’ speech

‘Redefining the rules so there is space for those whose identity cannot be defined by the confines of he or she,’ says Smith

Sam Smith and Munroe Bergdorf are among the LGBT+ celebrities to star in an alternative ‘Qweens’ speech aimed at championing “all queer bodies”.

The short film, made by creative agency ACNE, also stars British fashion designer Gareth Pugh and was inspired by Cecil Beaton’s portraits of Princess Margaret, taken on the royal’s 19th birthday in 1950.

In the film, the cast reflect on some of the milestones made in 2019 for LGBT+ rights.

Pugh uses his appearance in the film, which has been published by DAZED, to celebrate same-sex marriage.

“We’ve continued to shatter the shackles surrounding same sex love and this year,” he says. “Northern Ireland finally passed equal marriage.”

Smith, who announced their decision to use gender-neutral pronouns in September, wears a fluffy pink Milo Maria coat in the film, and adds: “Celebrating all queer bodies, whatever form they take.

“Redefining the rules so there is space for those whose identity cannot be defined by the confines of he or she.”

Bergdorf, who wears an ethereal tulle gown in the film, adds: “Britain. What a year it’s been. And what a decade!

“We’ve come so far. Fought so fiercely and reshaped the world to include us in it. Breaking down stale traditions and crafting a tomorrow that is fairer and safer for all.”

Munroe Bergdorf poses in the short film. (Chloe Sheppard/Acne)

Other LGBT+ stars in the film include the founder of UK Black Pride, Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, journalist and drag queen Crystal Rasmussen, and transgender poet Kai Isaiah Jamal.

The film was directed by duo Zhang + Knight, who explained why they were inspired by the aesthetic of Beaton’s portraits.

“They have this decadent dusty pastel romanticism to them and we wanted to create a regal environment world which felt luxurious but also held onto the rebellious spirit of the LGBTQ+ community,” they said.

Adam Springfeld, executive creative director at ACNE commented: “Diversity should be celebrated in all forms but the fact remains that there is still more to do to support LGBTQ+ rights in our homes, our communities and society as a whole.

“Collaborating with this talented group of artists has created a film which we hope will inspire more people to share this message at a time of hope, love and goodwill.”