Netflix Documentary 'Ahead of the Curve' Chronicles Legacy of Iconic Lesbian Magazine Curve

The new Netflix documentary 'Ahead of the Curve' tells the story of the groundbreaking lesbian and queer women's magazine Curve, founded by Franco Stevens in San Francisco in 1990. The film, released in 2024, traces the legacy of Curve and its founder, examining the magazine's impact on the LGBTQ community and the challenges it faced over the years.

Curve, originally called Deneuve, was launched at a time when there was little representation of lesbians and queer women in mainstream media. Stevens used money she won at the horse races to start the magazine, which grew to become a legitimizing force for marketing to the queer community. "Curve gave lesbians and queer women a platform to see themselves represented in a glossy magazine," the documentary emphasizes.

However, the path was not easy for Stevens and Curve. The magazine struggled with funding in its early years due to a lack of advertising revenue from mainstream companies. In 1996, it was sued for trademark infringement by French actress Catherine Deneuve, leading to a stressful legal battle that was ultimately resolved through community support. The magazine was then renamed Curve.

Despite the obstacles, Curve became a vital part of the LGBTQ community. Stevens' work was recognized as having a lasting impact. But in 1997, Stevens was injured and developed chronic pain that eventually led her to step away from the magazine. When the documentary was made in 2020, Stevens was at a crossroads, questioning whether Curve should come to an end or transform into something new.

Why this matters: The story of Curve and Franco Stevens highlights the importance of LGBTQ representation in media and the challenges faced by marginalized communities in making their voices heard. The documentary provides a window into the fight for visibility and acceptance, which continues to be relevant today.

The film opens with Curve facing financial troubles, as Stevens had sold the magazine to an Australian publisher. 'Ahead of the Curve' not only examines the legacy of the iconic publication but also delves into Stevens' personal journey, including her realization that she was a lesbian and the struggles she faced in running the magazine. "The documentary is a testament to the resilience and determination of the LGBTQ community in the face of adversity," said a spokesperson for the film.

Key Takeaways

• Curve, a pioneering lesbian magazine, was founded by Franco Stevens in 1990.
• Curve faced funding challenges and a trademark lawsuit, but became vital to LGBTQ community.
• Stevens' injury led her to step away, and the magazine's future was uncertain in 2020.
• The documentary 'Ahead of the Curve' explores Curve's legacy and Stevens' personal journey.
• The film highlights the importance of LGBTQ representation and the community's resilience.