Symons, a Bay Area resident, is a highly acclaimed filmmaker, distinguished for his significant contributions as co-producer of the Academy Award-nominated and Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning documentary "Long Night's Journey Into Day", a thought-provoking and impactful cinematic masterpiece that delves into the complex and emotionally charged journey of South Africa's pursuit of truth and reconciliation.
He is renowned for his work on this documentary, which has garnered widespread critical acclaim and recognition within the film industry, showcasing his exceptional skill and dedication to storytelling.
The remarkable career of Symons has been marked by a persistent pursuit of innovation, yielding cinematic works that intricately explore the complexities of gay culture. Notably, his documentary repertoire boasts the critically acclaimed "Daddy and Papa" (2002),a film that garnered both an Emmy and Sundance Grand Jury Prize nomination for its thought-provoking examination of the phenomenon of gay fatherhood in America. This groundbreaking work shed light on a previously underrepresented aspect of modern society, ultimately contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. Another notable documentary in Symons' oeuvre is "Ask Not" (2008),a poignant and emotionally charged exploration of the military's controversial 'don't ask, don't tell' policy. Through the personal stories of those directly affected by this policy, Symons' film masterfully humanized the issue, providing a powerful platform for the voices of those silenced by the policy. Both "Daddy and Papa" and "Ask Not" have been featured on PBS' esteemed Independent Lens series, further solidifying Symons' reputation as a visionary filmmaker.
Symons has also directed a documentary film titled Beyond Conception, which premiered on the Discovery Health Channel in 2006. This thought-provoking film chronicles the extraordinary journey of a lesbian surrogate and a gay male couple as they navigate the complexities of conceiving a child. The documentary delves into the emotional highs and lows of this unique and unconventional family-building process, offering a poignant and intimate portrayal of the challenges and triumphs that come with it.
Symons' earlier works include Beauty Before Age, a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the gay male community's fear of growing older. Released in 1997, this documentary film sheds light on the societal pressures and internalized homophobia that can lead to a fear of aging within the LGBTQ+ community. The film features candid interviews with members of the community, offering a raw and unflinching look at the ways in which ageism and homophobia intersect.
Another notable work by Symons is Shaving the Castro, a documentary that celebrates the vibrant atmosphere of a barber shop in San Francisco's iconic "gayborhood". Released in 1995, this film is a love letter to the city's thriving LGBTQ+ community, capturing the energy and camaraderie that defines this beloved neighborhood. Through the lens of a small, unassuming barber shop, Symons brings to life the stories and experiences of the people who call the Castro home.
Lastly, Symons' groundbreaking film Out in Africa, released in 1994, shines a light on black African gay life in a way that was unprecedented at the time. This documentary film explores the experiences of black African gay men and women, offering a powerful and moving portrayal of their struggles, triumphs, and everyday lives. By sharing these stories, Symons helps to humanize and amplify the voices of black African LGBTQ+ individuals, providing a platform for them to express themselves and be seen.
