LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Elegant Angel has announced the debut of the studio’s latest feature film, Summer & Joy, written and directed by award-winning auteur James Avalon.
Related through flashbacks to Malibu in 1988 interspersed with scenes set in the present day, Summer & Joy “explores the beginnings and unravelings of a queer romance,” according to the release announcement.
Daisy Pheonix and Reagan Foxx star as Summer Love, a “passionate poet,” with Scarlett Alexis and Dana Vespoli as Joy Jones, described as “an ambitious photographer.” Ken Feels, Axel Haze, and Arin Jones co-star as “the men who come in and out of Summer and Joy’s lives, challenging the strength of their relationship.”
“I absolutely loved playing this role,” Scarlett Alexis said. “It really encapsulates young queer love as a film photographer in the 80’s falling for a poet. Getting to shoot in Malibu was my favorite part.”
Daisy Phoenix said she’s “really excited for people to see Summer & Joy.”
“It’s sensual, emotional, and really about discovering yourself through love, desire, and the people who change you,” Phoenix added. “Playing the younger version of this poet felt so raw and personal to me, and I hope people get lost in the story the same way I did.”
Reagan Foxx described working with the cast and crew of the film as “an exceptional experience.”
“When you’re surrounded by true professionals who understand their craft, respect the process, and bring complete focus to every moment, it elevates the entire production,” Foxx said. “That level of commitment is what transforms a great script into a truly compelling story.”
Avalon said “exploring the beginning and end of a relationship as a writer/director was a unique experience for me, and something I’ve been wanting to do for quite a while.”
“The cast nailed the younger and older versions of the characters, making this a compelling and intriguing look into the beauty and the tragic failings of a relationship between two women,” Avalon added.
Dana Vespoli opined that Avalon is “such an amazing artist in so many ways—as a director, photographer, writer, and cinematographer.”
“Working with him on this project was such an honor and so much fun,” Vespoli added. “Reagan Foxx, Ken Feels, and Arin Jones were incredible scene partners, too.”
According to the release announcement, scenes from Summer & Joy will be exclusive to Elegant Angel members through Thursday of this week, when the full movie will drop on VOD platforms. A DVD release will follow “in the coming months,” the studio said.
Summer & Joy is available for viewing now on ElegantAngel.com.
