By: Michael Jacobs – Senior Correspondent | Gay Romance Indie Films

LAS VEGAS, NV — (July 1, 2026) — The official trailer for Soma Ulte offers audiences an emotional first look at an independent LGBTQ+ romance film that explores love, friendship and the challenges of growing up while navigating life on the autism spectrum.




Directed by Byron Ruf and written and produced by Jacob Nagle, Soma Ulte centers on Aidan Axelrod, a 19-year-old openly gay young man who dreams of finding his soulmate. Inspired by the romantic comedies he loves, Aidan develops increasingly elaborate plans to win the affection of his quiet childhood friend, Blake, believing destiny has brought them together.

Trending LGBTQ Movies & TV Streaming Coverage on JRL CHARTS

•  Netflix Drops Heartstopper Forever Trailer and Fans Are Already Emotional

•  ‘Cool Down’ Turns a Quiet Gym Into a Steamy Gay Short Film Sensation

•  Watch Gay Velvet Club – New LGBTQ Series Ignites Pride, Power and Nightlife Energy

•  Leviticus (2026) LGBTQ Horror Film Drops Chilling Official Trailer

•  Resident Evil (2026) Teaser Trailer Drops with Zach Cregger’s Dark Vision

A Coming-of-Age Story Rooted in Authentic Emotion

Rather than relying on familiar romance clichés, Soma Ulte examines how personal expectations often collide with reality. Aidan’s journey is shaped by his difficulty interpreting social cues, the growing frustrations of his friends and the realization that real-life relationships rarely unfold like the movies he admires.

The film explores themes of self-discovery, acceptance and emotional growth while presenting an honest portrayal of neurodiversity within a modern LGBTQ+ coming-of-age story.




The Meaning Behind Soma Ulte

The film’s unusual title carries significant emotional meaning.

“Soma Ulte” originates from a shared joke between Aidan and Blake involving a misspelled version of the word “soulmate.” For Aidan, the private joke becomes symbolic proof that they are meant to be together. As the story unfolds, the phrase reflects his tendency to assign deeper meaning to moments that may not represent reality, adding emotional complexity to their evolving relationship.




Cast and Creative Team

The feature stars Raffi Manjikian, Carlos Witting, Connor Connolly, and Caitlyn Alico Beckwith, supported by an ensemble cast that helps bring the intimate story to life.

Behind the camera, director Byron Ruf collaborates with writer-producer Jacob Nagle and director of photography Dylan Lam, while editor Jacob Nagle, colorist Dylan Lam, and music and sound mixer Patrick Simmons complete the film’s creative team.

Watch the Official Trailer




The newly released trailer highlights the film’s emotional storytelling, natural performances and thoughtful exploration of young love, making Soma Ulte an indie feature that LGBTQ+ cinema fans should keep on their radar.

Production Credits

Film Title: Soma Ulte

Production Company: Ruf Productions

Director: Byron Ruf

Writer & Producer: Jacob Nagle

Director of Photography: Dylan Lam

Editor: Jacob Nagle

Colorist: Dylan Lam

Music & Sound Mix: Patrick Simmons




Starring

  • Raffi Manjikian
  • Carlos Witting
  • Connor Connolly
  • Caitlyn Alico Beckwith

Supporting Cast

  • Hannah Bialous
  • Marissa Edwards
  • Stephen Konnovitch
  • Peter Burghen
  • Michelle Opalesky
  • Steph Van Vlack
  • Ragan McKenna
  • John Bacsik
  • Keira Lam
  • Dylan Dembo
  • Shauna Hilferty
  • Ally Bouska
  • Ri Raymundo

Stay with JRL CHARTS Movie Trailers for Gay Romance Indie Films, the latest LGBTQ+ independent film trailers, romance features, filmmaker spotlights and entertainment news from around the world.




Michael Jacobs
Latest posts by Michael Jacobs (see all)