"Ruth Ellis died in 2000 at age 101; how fortunate that Yvonne Welbon made this most excellent documentary in 1999. It is a beautiful and inspiring portrait of the woman who was probably the oldest 'out' African-American lesbian when this was filmed - she was still going strong at 100 years of age as she was entering her third century (she was born in 1899). Interviews, memories of younger friends, photographs, archival footage and dramatic recreations of her past create a candid, warm and intimate picture of her pioneering life. She was the first woman to own her own printing business in NE Detroit, and for 30 years she and her partner Babe provided a social haven for African-American gays and lesbians who faced discrimination at the gay bars. Whether or not you already know Ruth from the women's music festivals, this film is a must; highly recommended!"