Barbara Forever Trailer Delves Into the Life of a Pioneer Through Imagery

      Let’s take a bold step and claim that the most talked-about documentary of 2026 about an avant-garde filmmaker is *Barbara Forever*. Brydie O’Connor’s exploration of Barbara Hammer won the Jonathan Oppenheim Editing Award at its Sundance premiere, subsequently took home Berlinale’s Teddy Award for Best Documentary, and boasts executive producers like Kristen Stewart and Christine Vachon. However, such credentials do not guarantee effective distribution in this flawed landscape, which makes Strand Releasing’s theatrical release starting September 4 at Film Forum all the more significant. Along with this announcement, a first trailer has been unveiled.

      As noted in our Critic’s Pick review from Sundance, “The most commendable aspect of Brydie O’Connor’s documentary *Barbara Forever* is its ability to stand out as an interesting and engaging film in its own right. It focuses on the life of filmmaker Barbara Hammer, a trailblazer in queer cinema and the broader cultural queer identity. While there is no shortage of films and archival material to narrate Hammer’s journey, O’Connor wisely avoids making it feel like an obligatory assignment. Ultimately, it transcends being merely a tribute to a remarkable artist (Hammer passed away in 2019). Too frequently, profiles of artists play it too safely compared to the artist's own work. *Barbara Forever* sidesteps that pitfall, often presenting itself like a Barbara Hammer film, while evolving into a sharp, clever montage that is brisk and entertaining throughout. It is humorous, disarming, and ultimately, gently uplifting.”

      Here’s the synopsis: “Pioneering queer avant-garde filmmaker Barbara Hammer (1939–2019) shattered norms by highlighting candid lesbian sexuality and pleasure within a vast collection of beautiful, poetic, personal works. In *Barbara Forever*—primarily built from Hammer’s own archive spanning fifty years, along with audio diaries and contemporary conversations with her long-time partner, Florrie Burke—director Brydie O’Connor creates a heartfelt portrayal of a formidable talent while accompanying her through her last years and creative endeavors.”

      Check out the preview below: