Academy Award-winning actress Olivia Colman and Emmy winner John Lithgow star in the poignant new drama 'Jimpa', a semi-autobiographical story that delves into the complexities of modern family life within the queer community.
The film follows Hannah, played by Colman, as she takes her trans non-binary teen son Frances to Amsterdam to meet his gay father Jim, portrayed by Lithgow. The trip sparks an emotional journey for both mother and son, forcing Hannah to confront her past and re-evaluate her parenting choices when Frances decides to stay in Amsterdam for a year.
According to John Lithgow, 'Jimpa' is not just a great film but an "important film for this moment", reflecting the shifting values of contemporary society. For director Sophie Hyde, the movie holds personal significance, as the character of Frances is played by her own child, Aud Mason-Hyde, who makes his feature film debut.
Hyde emphasized her commitment to authenticity in casting actors who can bring genuine empathy to their roles. Colman's instinctual approach was particularly valued, allowing her to deliver a nuanced performance without unnecessary interference.
As the film gains traction, its message of embracing queerness and difference resonates with audiences. The film's lead actor hopes viewers will watch 'Jimpa' as an opportunity to celebrate individuality and promote understanding.
'Jimpa', which premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and later served as the opening night gala for the Adelaide Film Festival, is set to hit theaters on February 6, offering a powerful exploration of modern family dynamics within the LGBTQ+ community.
The film follows Hannah, played by Colman, as she takes her trans non-binary teen son Frances to Amsterdam to meet his gay father Jim, portrayed by Lithgow. The trip sparks an emotional journey for both mother and son, forcing Hannah to confront her past and re-evaluate her parenting choices when Frances decides to stay in Amsterdam for a year.
According to John Lithgow, 'Jimpa' is not just a great film but an "important film for this moment", reflecting the shifting values of contemporary society. For director Sophie Hyde, the movie holds personal significance, as the character of Frances is played by her own child, Aud Mason-Hyde, who makes his feature film debut.
Hyde emphasized her commitment to authenticity in casting actors who can bring genuine empathy to their roles. Colman's instinctual approach was particularly valued, allowing her to deliver a nuanced performance without unnecessary interference.
As the film gains traction, its message of embracing queerness and difference resonates with audiences. The film's lead actor hopes viewers will watch 'Jimpa' as an opportunity to celebrate individuality and promote understanding.
'Jimpa', which premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and later served as the opening night gala for the Adelaide Film Festival, is set to hit theaters on February 6, offering a powerful exploration of modern family dynamics within the LGBTQ+ community.
! it's like they're really tackling some deep issues about family and identity... i mean, it's great that they're showcasing a trans non-binary character and exploring what it's like for parents to navigate that. Olivia Colman is an amazing actress btw 
. I love how the director chose her son's kid to play the lead role, it must be so cool for him! 
Aud Mason-Hyde needs to get more recognition for his acting skills! 
The fact that John Lithgow thinks it's an "important film for this moment" makes me want to watch it even more... let's keep promoting understanding and acceptance 
. A semi-autobiographical story about a trans non-binary teen's journey with his gay dad? How original 
. I mean, don't get me wrong, it sounds like a great film, but does it really need to be based on the director's own experiences? It feels like a gimmick 
. A child actor playing a trans non-binary teen? That's just not something you can fake or act out 
. I hope they did their research and didn't rely on stereotypes, but it's hard to say for sure without seeing the film.
. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about representation in media, but can we please have some originality too? 
. I think it's amazing that they're bringing these important conversations to the forefront without shying away from the complexity and messiness of real life. The fact that Olivia Colman just dives into her character without any hesitation is so inspiring, you know? And Aud Mason-Hyde as Frances is like, exactly what you want in a casting decision - authentic and genuine. I'm definitely gonna be watching this one on Feb 6 
It's like, they're speaking straight to my heart. And Olivia Colman and John Lithgow are just perfection as the lead characters. I mean, can you even imagine how hard it must've been for them to pour their hearts out on screen and make such an honest film about queerness? 
The way it makes me think about my own family (or lack thereof) is like, totally uncomfortable, but in a good way? 
This movie is more than just a drama - it's a movement. It's all about embracing our differences and loving each other unconditionally. I'm already counting down the days until it hits theaters 
Can we talk?!
. I hope Olivia Colman's performance is as nuanced as everyone says she'll be!"
. Olivia Colman and John Lithgow are great actors, but what's really interesting is that the director Sophie Hyde cast her own kid in the lead role - Aud Mason-Hyde. That's some serious commitment to authenticity right there 
. And I love how they're focusing on queerness and difference as a message, it's so important for our society to just accept people for who they are 
the themes of queerness and difference are so important for our society right now and i'm glad 'jimpa' is tackling them head-on. let's get ready for a powerful cinematic experience that will leave us all feeling seen and celebrated 
The fact that it premiered at Sundance and is getting so much attention now is awesome 
.
... like, if it's based on real life, why not just make it about your own experiences? This Olivia Colman drama sounds fine, I guess, but I'd rather watch a more straightforward coming-of-age film. I mean, don't get me wrong, queerness is an important topic, but can we please have some less heavy-handed storytelling for once?
. The way the movie makes you feel all these emotions and stuff is just incredible 
. It's time we see more stories like 'Jimpa' on the big screen! 
