“There are a lot of folks in the community that have gone out of their way to thank us for our work on this project. That to me is worth more than anything. Knowing that I am able to give back with my own art form to a community that I love”
-Ash Kreis
The Furry Fandom is a diverse group of individuals and is a great example of the magic of discovery. It is a discovery that involves self-realization, love, and acceptance. All these things can be found in an upcoming film known as “The Fandom”, which comes out this July 3rd. I was given the special opportunity to watch the film and offer a review of it. Through analysis I will provide great insight into the diversity, and relationships of members in the furry fandom. As the director Ash Kreis put it,” I wanted to make a film that really explained the fandom in a way that no one else has been able to achieve”.
The Furry Fandom is an amazing community. It is made up of many individuals that have a connection with one thing: anthropomorphic animals. To those that do not know, anthropomorphic animals are animals with human characteristics. Anthropomorphic animals have fascinated humanity for thousands of years, but it was not until about 40 years ago that a subculture dedicated to anthropomorphic animals was created. Kickstarted in the 70’s by Mark Merlino and Rod O’ Riley, the fascination with anthropomorphic animal characters has been shared by not just children, but by adults as well. It wasn’t long until it started gaining momentum in the 80’s with anthropomorphic art at Sci-Fi conventions, such as an east coast convention where Steve Gallacci presented artwork of anthropomorphic animal characters.
Love is a common theme in this movie. From footage of conventions such as Denfur 2019, large amounts of love can be found in the form of fun and celebration for anthropomorphic animals. I do not think it is a coincidence that my most memorable experience in the fandom was my attendance at Denfur 2019; my first furry convention. I still vividly remember the first day of the convention, where I picked up and wore my first furuit; a mascot like costume that represents one’s furry self. It almost feels like fate that I was given this amazing opportunity to write this article.
“Where else can you find such an open and accepting community? I think that is really what makes us special and sets us apart from other fandoms”
-Ash Kreis
One thing I like most about this film is the way it presents the furry fandom. By showing how common LGBTQ members are, it is easy to see just how accepting people are in this fandom. Even people with psychological issues can find acceptance here. As someone who suffers from ADHD and Epilepsy, I have found that the Furry Fandom is the least judging of my disabilities. While attending Denfur 2019, my social anxiety melted away, as I felt like I was with my family. After the film I was reminded at just how helpful the Furry Community is to its members. Whether you have disabilities, different sexual orientations, or just about anything else, one can find nothing but acceptance in this community of ours.
So, did Ash make a film that that no one else has been able to achieve? I believe that is an overwhelming yes. Never have I seen a film that describes the Furry Fandom so well. By providing a detailed history of the Fandom it is easy to see just how beneficial the fandom is to so many lives. The film also has a deep place in my heart, as I am reminded about how much the fandom has helped my life as well. So, if any of you really want to see what love means, I suggest you give this film a watch.
Sincerely,
Joshua Bergren
A.K.A “Moonraiser”
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