Synopsis

In the shadow of the Great Depression, long before historical changes leading toward LGBTQ advocacy, Ruth Thompson defies her family’s expectations that she marry Duke, her long-time sweetheart. Instead, she joins a rodeo circuit with her cousin in order to earn money for college and comes of age in the rough and tumble culture of rodeo competition.

After returning home to Minnesota, Ruth resumes her familiar relationship with Duke. Once at college, her safe existence is upended when she meets confident and free-spirited Gisela, and further unravels when the two women fall in love.

The lives of Ruth, Gisela and Duke entwine while Ruth embarks on a journey of self-discovery full of dangerous social repercussions. When WWII escalates, each faces a test of their fortitude as Ruth seeks a way to summon the courage to face the risk of losing everyone and everything dear to her in order to live her authentic truth.

Both heart wrenching and uplifting, The Winter Loon honors the strength and spirit of all those who grapple with social persecution because of who they love and how they define family whether it is their own flesh and blood kinfolk and/or those nearest and dearest to their heart.