In the moving documentary Come See Me in the Good Light, poet Andrea Gibson — the Colorado poet laureate — shares their personal journey through cancer, love, and creativity. The film is more than a cancer story; it’s an exploration of resilience, joy, and deep connection in the face of mortality.
A Life of Words and Love
Andrea Gibson, widely recognized for their spoken word poetry and advocacy, has spent years inspiring audiences with lines like:
“Why did no one tell us that to die is to be reincarnated in those we love while they are still alive?”
This line, from Gibson’s Love Letter from the Afterlife, becomes even more poignant in light of their diagnosis with stage 4 ovarian cancer.
Together with their partner, fellow poet Megan Falley, Gibson chose to confront the illness not just with courage, but with joy and vulnerability. Their journey is tenderly documented in director Ryan White’s acclaimed film.
A Documentary Rooted in Intimacy
Premiering to a full house at the DC/DOX Festival, White emphasized that:
“This film is a love story more than a cancer story.”
Filmed largely during chemotherapy sessions, the documentary captures raw, unscripted moments — sometimes with nothing more than an iPhone — making the viewer feel like a trusted companion rather than an observer.
White explained the process:
“We couldn’t bring a full crew into the hospital. So, the DP Brandon Somerhalder often filmed quietly, building trust and blending into Andrea and Meg’s world.”
Festival Favorite and Critical Success
Audiences have responded with powerful emotion. The film won the Festival Favorite Award at Sundance, as well as audience awards at Hot Docs, San Francisco International Film Festival, and Boulder International Film Festival.
White believes the story resonates universally, even with viewers initially hesitant about LGBTQ+ themes:
“People who were on one side of politicized issues around queer and trans rights fell in love with Andrea and Meg watching this… Their poetry and openness are disarming.”
A Musical Tribute from Close Friends
The project also includes powerful collaborators:
-
Tig Notaro, a long-time friend, served as producer
-
Brandi Carlile and Sara Bareilles acted as executive producers and co-wrote the film’s final song
-
The closing number — soon to be released as a duet between Carlile and Bareilles — underscores the film’s emotional core
“It’s a love song,” said White. “Their harmony brings the story full circle.”
A Celebration of Life, Not Death
The documentary is set for release on Apple TV+ this fall, opening the story up to a global audience. As White reflects:
“This isn’t a film about death — it’s about living. Andrea and Meg taught us all how to live more fully, with love at the center.”
