The Feature-Length Documentary

A story about queer nightlife, drag culture and trans joy in small-town America.

Queer stories often center around escape, but what about those who stay, like Brady Pappas, a trans non-binary photographer? Through Brady’s lens, we witness a world of chosen family, creativity, resilience, and joy existing in a place where many would least expect it. Amish Country Queer seeks to challenge assumptions about where queer life belongs and who gets to be visible in a region too often spoken about rather than listened to. Brady documents the lives of others, she turns the camera inward. In an increasingly volatile political climate where trans and queer individuals face growing uncertainty, Brady grapples with a deeply personal question: Will she begin her transition, or remain in the space between identities? 

By spotlighting a thriving LGBTQ+ community in the heart of America’s most traditional landscapes, the film disrupts persistent narratives about queerness. We hope to expand representation, spark conversation about visibility and safety while empowering queer Appalachian, Southern, and Midwestern communities.

IN DEVELOPMENT

Amish Country Queer has wrapped production on the feature-length film and officially begun editing.

Bringing this story to life at a moment when trans voices need space, care, and visibility more than ever has reaffirmed why this project matters. Queer and trans people are being pushed further into the margins, especially in rural America. Stories like Amish Country Queer can be lifelines for the kids growing up in Lancaster and small towns everywhere. They need to know they’re not alone.

WHERE WE ARE & WHERE WE’RE HEADED

What started as a hopeful idea grew into something far bigger than we imagined, thanks entirely to our community's support.

In 2025, the short film screened at five film festivals and received three Best Documentary awards. We also met and surpassed our Seed&Spark crowdfunding goal, proving just how deeply this story resonated with our community. We were honored to partner with amazing Community Sponsors including Camp OUT Poconos, cineSPEAK, Gracie’s House, Pocono Pride Coalition, and Hypnotic Pole Fitness. Our online community has also reached nearly 1,500 followers on Instagram.

While production is wrapped, costs are still rolling in as we move through post-production and community events. Donations and new Community Sponsors are still very welcome, and every contribution helps us sustain this project and everything that follows!

As of 2026, Amish Country Queer is seeking distributors for the feature-length documentary.