“You Should Meet My Son!” – A Heartwarming and Hilarious Tale of Love, Acceptance, and Motherhood
You Should Meet My Son! is a 2010 independent comedy film written and directed by Keith Hartman. This low-budget gem takes audiences on a heartfelt journey of a conservative Southern mother’s unexpected discovery of her son's sexuality—and her determined and often hilarious attempts to help him find true love. With its quirky characters, poignant moments, and strong message of acceptance, the film stands out as both a comedy and a meaningful story about family and identity.
The story centers around Mae, a traditional and well-meaning Southern woman who has spent her life devoted to her son, Brian. She dreams of the perfect daughter-in-law and grandchildren, but when she learns—by accident—that Brian is gay, her world is turned upside down. At first, Mae struggles with the revelation, confronting her own biases and confusion. However, unlike many portrayals of parental rejection in LGBTQ+ stories, Mae’s journey takes a refreshing and endearing turn.
Rather than shunning her son, Mae becomes his biggest advocate. Once she accepts Brian’s identity, she becomes determined to help him find happiness, even if that means stepping far outside of her comfort zone. She dives into the gay dating world—attending drag shows, gay bars, and even mingling with male strippers—all in an effort to find her son the perfect boyfriend. With the help of her eccentric sister Rose, the two create a plan to play matchmaker, with both humorous and heartwarming results.
The film’s strength lies in its sincerity. While it leans heavily into comedy and camp, especially through Mae’s over-the-top efforts and the outrageous characters she meets, the underlying message is one of unconditional love and acceptance. The humor never undermines the emotional core of the story, and Mae’s transformation feels authentic and deeply human. Her willingness to grow and change for the sake of her son is both touching and inspiring.
Keith Hartman, who is also known for his work as an author and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, uses this film to challenge stereotypes while also celebrating them. He creates a cast of vibrant, memorable characters—from flamboyant drag queens to leather-clad bikers—while still grounding the story in the real emotional journey of a mother learning to truly see her son for who he is.
Though made on a modest budget, You Should Meet My Son! delivers a powerful emotional punch. It may not feature Hollywood-level production values, but its heart and humor shine through. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever struggled with acceptance, whether of themselves or of a loved one. The film ultimately reminds us that love—especially a parent’s love—can be a powerful force for change.
In a world where LGBTQ+ representation in media is still evolving, You Should Meet My Son! stands out as a joyful, funny, and affirming film. It’s a must-watch for those who enjoy stories about family, growth, and the beautiful, sometimes awkward, journey toward understanding and acceptance.
