American rapper and songwriter Lil Nas X, also known as Montero Lamar Hill, is offering fans an intimate glimpse behind his stage persona through his new documentary film, “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero. At the 43rd Toronto Film Festival, the artist expressed his hope that the documentary would reveal the “real me” to his audience.
Lil Nas X, who made history as the first openly gay man to receive a Country Music Association award for his hit song “Old Town Road,” takes viewers on a biographical journey in this documentary. Directed by Carlos Lopez Estrada and Zac Manuel, the film follows Lil Nas X on tour and captures the profound connection he shares with his fans. Along the way, it delves into Nas’s personal journey of embracing his identity as a black queer artist.
“I want my fans to see the real me—I am someone who is always joking and making fun 24/7, so through this film, they can take what they want to,” Lil Nas X shared with reporters on the red carpet. He also noted that the documentary represents the end of one era in his life and the beginning of a new one, describing his current state of mind as somewhat confused yet immediate.
Carlos Lopez Estrada, the director, revealed that the film is structured around the concept of transformation. It highlights the idea that Lil Nas X and his fans symbolize the process of embracing one’s identity and evolving into the person they are meant to be.
“The fans of Nas have embraced his message about becoming the person you are meant to be, acknowledging all the parts of yourself that you love and fear,” Estrada explained.
As Lil Nas X’s documentary unfolds, it promises to provide not only a deeper understanding of the artist but also a compelling narrative of self-discovery and authenticity that resonates with audiences worldwide.