Free Love (film)

Free Love is a 2015 American biographical drama film directed by Peter Sollett and written by Ron Nyswaner. The film is based on the true story of Laurel Hester and Stacie Andree, a lesbian couple who fought for equal rights in 2000s New Jersey.

The film stars Julianne Moore as Laurel Hester, a police lieutenant, and Elliot Page (credited as Ellen Page at the time of release) as Stacie Andree, her younger partner. When Laurel is diagnosed with terminal cancer, she attempts to leave her pension benefits to Stacie. However, because they are a same-sex couple, this is initially denied by the Ocean County freeholders.

The film follows Laurel and Stacie's struggle to overcome this discriminatory policy, highlighting their relationship, the challenges they face from societal prejudices and legal barriers, and the activism that their case inspires. It features themes of love, equality, social justice, and the importance of fighting for one's rights. Michael Shannon plays Laurel's police partner, Dane Wells, who supports her throughout her fight.

Free Love premiered at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival and received mixed reviews. While praised for the performances of Moore and Page and its depiction of the couple's relationship, some critics found the film overly sentimental and predictable. The film contributed to the ongoing conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and marriage equality.