'Jimpa': Sophie Hyde's Autobiographical Film Explores Family, Queerness, and Legacy

Director Sophie Hyde's latest film, 'Jimpa,' features her non-binary child, Aud Mason-Hyde, in a role based on themselves. Aud Mason-Hyde described shooting a sex scene directed by their mother as confronting. The film explores themes of people, relationships, and sexuality, reflecting aspects of Sophie's father, Jim Hyde's, life.

'Jimpa' is Sophie's most autobiographical work since '52 Tuesdays.' It is an intergenerational story about family, parenting, and queerness. The film stars Olivia Colman, John Lithgow, and Aud Mason-Hyde. Sophie's husband, Bryan Mason, edited the film. Aud stated the role allowed them to integrate family memories and lived experiences while bringing a new story to life.

An Intergenerational Story: Jim Hyde's Influence

Aud's grandfather, Jim Hyde, came out as gay to his wife Christine in the late 1970s. He became a significant figure in the gay rights movement and assisted the community during the AIDS epidemic. Christine James described feeling betrayed, angry, and upset when Jim came out. The couple, however, remained together, aiming to respect each other outside societal expectations of sexuality and marriage.

Jim Hyde was a founding member of the AIDS Council of South Australia and the South Australian Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby. He was diagnosed as HIV-positive in 1992 but survived, aided by new medications, and was present for Aud's birth in 2005.

Aud Mason-Hyde: Authenticity and Activism

Sophie stated that Aud consistently moved between rigid gender binaries from an early age. Aud expressed that Jim's open lifestyle created a family culture that enabled them to live authentically.

At age 12, Aud gave a TEDx talk about being non-binary, which Jim viewed with pride, with his friend David Menadue recalling Jim's belief that Aud would influence societal views.

Jim Hyde died after a stroke when Aud was a child.

Aud Mason-Hyde experienced online death threats at age 14 after discussing being non-binary publicly. Aud reflected that their personal support and privilege motivated them to advocate for those without similar advantages. Aud co-founded TRANSMEDIUM, a trans-led community arts organization, produces a magazine for trans youth, and delivers speeches.

A Deeply Personal Exploration

Sophie Hyde acknowledged the potential for criticism associated with releasing the deeply personal film.

She stated her father and child exemplify bravery and resilience in standing up as themselves despite public scrutiny and potential attacks.