10.2 Representation of LGBTQ+ identities in film history
4 min read•august 15, 2024
LGBTQ+ representation in film has evolved from stereotypical portrayals to more nuanced depictions. Early Hollywood often showed LGBTQ+ characters as villains or comic relief. Recent years have seen increased diversity, but challenges remain in achieving authentic representation.
Key films like "" and "" have pushed boundaries, exploring complex LGBTQ+ stories. However, stereotypes and tropes persist. Positive representation can promote understanding and acceptance, while negative portrayals can reinforce harmful prejudices.
LGBTQ+ Representation in Film History
Evolution of LGBTQ+ Representation
Early Hollywood films often depicted LGBTQ+ characters as villains, victims, or objects of ridicule reflecting societal prejudices and the restrictive Hays Code
During the 1960s and 1970s, LGBTQ+ characters began to appear more frequently in independent and foreign films often in more complex and nuanced roles
The 1980s and 1990s saw an increase in LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream films although many portrayals still relied on stereotypes and negative tropes
Contemporary LGBTQ+ Representation
In the 21st century, there has been a growing presence of LGBTQ+ characters in major studio films with more diverse and authentic representations
Includes a wider range of LGBTQ+ identities, such as transgender and non-binary characters, being depicted on screen (Laverne Cox in "Orange Is the New Black", Asia Kate Dillon in "Billions")
Issues of underrepresentation, , and lack of diversity within LGBTQ+ portrayals persist in contemporary cinema
Positive and authentic LGBTQ+ representation in film can help increase , understanding, and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in society
Representation provides role models and validation for LGBTQ+ viewers, particularly youth, who may struggle with their identity or feel isolated
Key Films and Filmmakers
Landmark LGBTQ+ Films
"" (1970), directed by William Friedkin, was one of the first mainstream films to focus on gay characters and their relationships
"" (1990), directed by Jennie Livingston, is a landmark documentary that explores the New York City drag ball culture and the lives of LGBTQ+ people of color
"" (1993), directed by Jonathan Demme, was one of the first major Hollywood films to address the AIDS crisis and feature a gay protagonist
"" (2005), directed by Ang Lee, is a critically acclaimed film that depicts a complex romantic relationship between two men
Recent Influential LGBTQ+ Films
"Moonlight" (2016), directed by Barry Jenkins, is a groundbreaking film that explores the intersection of race, sexuality, and masculinity through the story of a young gay Black man
"Call Me by Your Name" (2017), directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a coming-of-age film that portrays a romantic relationship between two men in 1980s Italy
"" (2019), directed by Céline Sciamma, is a historical drama that depicts a passionate love story between two women in 18th-century France
"" (2015), directed by Sean Baker, features transgender actresses Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor in lead roles and was shot entirely on iPhones
Stereotypes and Tropes in LGBTQ+ Film
Common LGBTQ+ Character Stereotypes
The "sissy" or effeminate gay man stereotype portrays gay male characters as flamboyant, weak, or comedic sidekicks
The "butch" lesbian stereotype depicts lesbian characters as masculine, aggressive, or deviant
The "predatory" LGBTQ+ character trope presents LGBTQ+ individuals as sexual predators or a threat to heterosexual characters
The "tragic" LGBTQ+ character trope depicts LGBTQ+ characters as inherently unhappy, doomed to suffer, or punished for their sexuality or gender identity
Problematic LGBTQ+ Narrative Tropes
The "coming out" narrative often focuses on the struggle and trauma of LGBTQ+ characters revealing their identity to others sometimes at the expense of other aspects of their lives and personalities
The "gay best friend" trope relegates LGBTQ+ characters to supporting roles and often relies on stereotypes for comedic effect (Damian in "Mean Girls", Stanford in "Sex and the City")
The "trans deception" trope portrays transgender characters as deceptive or misleading others about their gender identity
The "bury your gays" trope involves the disproportionate death of LGBTQ+ characters, particularly in television series (Lexa in "The 100", Tara in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer")
Impact of LGBTQ+ Representation on Society
Positive Effects of LGBTQ+ Representation
Diverse LGBTQ+ representation can challenge stereotypes and misconceptions promoting a more accurate and nuanced understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences
Films that depict LGBTQ+ characters and stories can spark public discourse and contribute to shifts in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights and equality
Increased visibility of LGBTQ+ characters in film can lead to greater acceptance and normalization of LGBTQ+ identities in society
Challenges and Negative Effects
Negative or stereotypical LGBTQ+ representation can reinforce prejudices, perpetuate harmful myths, and contribute to the marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals
The impact of LGBTQ+ representation in film is influenced by factors such as the prominence of the characters, the quality of the storytelling, and the reception by audiences and critics
Ongoing efforts to improve LGBTQ+ representation in film, both in terms of quantity and quality, are crucial for promoting greater understanding, acceptance, and equality in society
Underrepresentation and lack of diversity within LGBTQ+ portrayals (e.g., focusing primarily on white, cisgender gay men) can erase the experiences of other LGBTQ+ identities and intersections with race, ethnicity, and other marginalized groups
Key Terms to Review (31)
Brokeback Mountain: Brokeback Mountain is a 2005 film directed by Ang Lee that tells the story of a complex romantic relationship between two cowboys, Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist, who struggle with their sexual identities in a conservative society. The film is significant for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes and characters, showcasing the societal pressures and personal conflicts faced by individuals who do not conform to traditional norms of masculinity and sexuality.
Bury your gays trope: The 'bury your gays' trope refers to a recurring narrative pattern in film and television where LGBTQ+ characters, especially those who are prominent and well-developed, are killed off or suffer tragic endings, often as a means of advancing the plot or developing other characters. This trope highlights systemic issues in representation, showcasing how LGBTQ+ identities are frequently relegated to roles that end in loss, pain, or tragedy rather than joy and fulfillment.
Butch lesbian stereotype: The butch lesbian stereotype refers to a common depiction of lesbian women who present themselves in a more masculine manner, often characterized by short hair, traditionally masculine clothing, and assertive behavior. This stereotype emerges from a societal tendency to associate masculinity with dominance and femininity with submissiveness, which simplifies the complexity of LGBTQ+ identities into rigid categories, often marginalizing the diverse experiences within the lesbian community.
Call Me by Your Name: 'Call Me by Your Name' is a 2017 romantic drama film that tells the story of a summer romance between Elio, a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver, a 24-year-old graduate student. This film stands out for its sensitive portrayal of a same-sex relationship and the complexities of desire, identity, and first love, offering an important contribution to the representation of LGBTQ+ identities in cinema. The film's exploration of intimacy and emotional connection reflects broader themes within both historical and contemporary LGBTQ+ narratives in film, highlighting how such stories have evolved over time.
Camp aesthetics: Camp aesthetics is a style of expression that embraces exaggerated, theatrical elements and an appreciation for the absurd, often subverting traditional norms of taste and seriousness. It thrives on irony, humor, and the celebration of bad taste, allowing marginalized voices, particularly from the LGBTQ+ community, to reclaim and transform cultural artifacts into something that speaks to their identities and experiences. This approach creates a space for alternative representations that challenge mainstream expectations.
Coming out narratives: Coming out narratives are personal stories or representations that describe the process of individuals revealing their LGBTQ+ identity to themselves and others. These narratives often serve to validate the experiences of LGBTQ+ people, providing a framework for understanding identity formation, societal acceptance, and the challenges faced in a heteronormative world. They highlight the emotional complexity and personal significance behind the act of coming out, emphasizing both the struggle for acceptance and the celebration of one's true self.
Critical reception: Critical reception refers to the way in which a film or media text is evaluated and interpreted by critics and audiences upon its release. This includes reviews, ratings, and audience responses that can influence the film's success and legacy. The process of critical reception can vary significantly depending on cultural, social, and political contexts, particularly when examining how specific identities, such as LGBTQ+ representations, are perceived and critiqued within the film industry.
Cult following: A cult following refers to a group of passionate and dedicated fans who have a strong emotional attachment to a specific film, television show, or other media, often characterized by unique fandom practices. These followers tend to engage deeply with the material, creating communities around their shared interest, and their enthusiasm can lead to a cult status for the media in question. This phenomenon often intersects with various social identities, including LGBTQ+ communities, where specific films or shows resonate strongly due to their representation or themes.
Gay best friend trope: The gay best friend trope is a recurring character archetype in film and media where a gay man is portrayed as the close companion to a heterosexual female protagonist. This character often provides emotional support, fashion advice, and comic relief, reinforcing certain stereotypes about LGBTQ+ identities. This trope reflects broader trends in the representation of LGBTQ+ characters in film history, often limiting the complexity and agency of these characters while serving primarily to enhance the heterosexual narrative.
Gender performativity: Gender performativity is a concept that suggests that gender is not an innate quality but rather a series of behaviors and performances that individuals enact in society. This means that gender identity is constructed through repeated actions and societal expectations, rather than being a fixed trait. Understanding this idea helps in analyzing how LGBTQ+ identities have been represented in film, as it highlights the performative aspects of gender roles and challenges traditional notions of gender.
Gus Van Sant: Gus Van Sant is an American filmmaker known for his innovative storytelling and unique visual style, often exploring themes of identity, marginalization, and the human experience. His work is particularly significant in the representation of LGBTQ+ identities in film, showcasing complex characters and narratives that challenge societal norms and expectations. Van Sant's films have contributed to a greater visibility of LGBTQ+ issues, paving the way for more diverse and inclusive storytelling in mainstream cinema.
Heteronormativity: Heteronormativity is the cultural and societal assumption that heterosexual relationships are the standard or 'normal' form of human relationship, often marginalizing other sexual orientations and identities. This concept emphasizes the belief that gender roles are strictly binary, reinforcing traditional norms around masculinity and femininity, which in turn impacts representation and narratives in various media forms.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a concept that examines how various social identities, such as race, gender, sexuality, and class, intersect and contribute to unique experiences of oppression and privilege. This understanding helps reveal the complexity of social dynamics and highlights how individuals face multiple, overlapping layers of discrimination in different contexts.
Judith Butler: Judith Butler is a prominent American philosopher and gender theorist known for her work on gender, sexuality, and identity. She is best recognized for her concept of gender performativity, which argues that gender is not an inherent trait but rather an ongoing performance shaped by social norms and expectations. This idea connects deeply to the exploration of queer theory, representation of LGBTQ+ identities, and the evolution of contemporary LGBTQ+ cinema.
Media activism: Media activism refers to the strategic use of media to advocate for social change, raise awareness about social issues, and mobilize communities for action. This approach often involves creating, sharing, and promoting content that challenges dominant narratives and amplifies marginalized voices, particularly in relation to issues like LGBTQ+ representation and rights. By using various forms of media, activists seek to engage audiences and foster discussions that can lead to tangible change in societal attitudes and policies.
Moonlight: Moonlight is a groundbreaking film directed by Barry Jenkins that tells the story of a young Black man named Chiron as he grapples with his identity and sexuality in a challenging environment. The film's unique narrative structure and emotional depth highlight the intersectionality of race, sexuality, and masculinity, making it a pivotal work in the representation of LGBTQ+ identities in cinema.
New queer cinema: New Queer Cinema refers to a movement that emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, characterized by the creation of independent films that present LGBTQ+ narratives and challenge traditional representations. This movement is marked by a focus on authenticity, diverse identities, and often a political edge, reshaping the landscape of LGBTQ+ representation in film and media.
Paris Is Burning: 'Paris Is Burning' is a 1990 documentary film directed by Jennie Livingston that provides an intimate look into the drag ball culture of New York City during the 1980s, focusing on the lives, aspirations, and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people, particularly those of color. The film highlights themes of identity, performance, and social class while serving as a critical commentary on the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality within the LGBTQ+ community. Its cultural impact has made it a foundational text for understanding the representation of marginalized identities in media and has influenced contemporary queer cinema and discussions around LGBTQ+ rights.
Philadelphia: Philadelphia is a film released in 1993 that is significant for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ identities, particularly the experiences of a gay man diagnosed with AIDS. The film highlighted issues of discrimination, stigma, and the struggle for justice faced by those in the LGBTQ+ community during the AIDS crisis, making it a landmark in LGBTQ+ representation in cinema.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire: Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a 2019 French film directed by Céline Sciamma that tells the love story between an artist and her subject in the late 18th century. The film explores themes of desire, identity, and the female gaze, making it a significant work in the representation of LGBTQ+ identities in cinema.
Predatory lgbtq+ trope: The predatory LGBTQ+ trope refers to a recurring and harmful narrative in film and media where LGBTQ+ characters are depicted as dangerous, manipulative, or sexually aggressive towards heterosexual characters. This stereotype often serves to reinforce negative perceptions of LGBTQ+ individuals, painting them as threats to societal norms and values, which can contribute to real-world discrimination and violence against the community.
Queer theory: Queer theory is an academic framework that challenges the traditional categories of gender and sexuality, emphasizing fluidity and the complexities of identity. It questions normative assumptions about sexuality and gender roles, exploring how these constructs influence cultural representations and social power dynamics.
Representation politics: Representation politics refers to the ways in which different groups, particularly marginalized ones, are portrayed and involved in media, politics, and culture. This concept highlights the importance of visibility and voice for underrepresented communities, emphasizing that representation can impact social perceptions and power dynamics.
Sissy stereotype: The sissy stereotype refers to a cultural trope that portrays effeminate boys or men as weak, cowardly, and overly emotional. This stereotype often reinforces harmful gender norms and expectations, particularly in the context of masculinity, and it has had a significant impact on the representation of LGBTQ+ identities in film history. The sissy character is frequently used for comedic effect, serving as a foil to more traditionally masculine characters, thereby reflecting societal fears and anxieties surrounding gender nonconformity.
Stereotyping: Stereotyping is the act of oversimplifying and generalizing traits, behaviors, or characteristics to a particular group, often leading to misconceptions and prejudices. This phenomenon can distort the representation of various identities and experiences, impacting how individuals view themselves and each other within media narratives.
Stonewall Riots: The Stonewall Riots were a series of spontaneous demonstrations by members of the LGBTQ+ community in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in New York City on June 28, 1969. These events are widely considered a turning point for LGBTQ+ rights, marking the beginning of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement and influencing how LGBTQ+ identities have been represented in film and media history.
Tangerine: Tangerine is a 2015 independent film directed by Sean Baker that tells the story of a transgender sex worker named Sin-Dee Rella who discovers her boyfriend's infidelity on Christmas Eve. This film is significant in the representation of LGBTQ+ identities as it showcases the lives of marginalized individuals, particularly within the transgender community, while highlighting the vibrant culture of Los Angeles. It captures authentic experiences and relationships, serving as a critical commentary on identity, friendship, and survival in a complex societal landscape.
The Boys in the Band: The Boys in the Band is a groundbreaking play by Mart Crowley, first performed in 1968, that focuses on a group of gay friends who gather to celebrate a birthday. It marked a significant moment in LGBTQ+ representation, offering an honest portrayal of gay life, friendships, and struggles during a time when homosexuality was largely stigmatized and misrepresented in mainstream media. The work's raw depiction of the characters' vulnerabilities, as well as their moments of humor and camaraderie, highlighted the complexities of LGBTQ+ identities and experiences in a society that often marginalized them.
Tragic LGBTQ+ trope: The tragic LGBTQ+ trope refers to a narrative device in film and media where LGBTQ+ characters face suffering, hardship, or death as a central part of their story, often reinforcing negative stereotypes and societal biases. This trope historically reflects the marginalization of LGBTQ+ identities and suggests that their lives are inherently tragic, often resulting in a lack of positive representation and reinforcing harmful narratives about queer existence.
Trans deception trope: The trans deception trope is a recurring narrative device in film and media where a character who is transgender disguises their gender identity, often leading to deception and conflict. This trope can reinforce harmful stereotypes and misconceptions about transgender individuals, often portraying them as deceitful or manipulative, which contributes to negative societal perceptions. The use of this trope raises critical discussions about representation, authenticity, and the complexities of gender identity in media.
Visibility: Visibility refers to the representation and acknowledgment of various identities, particularly marginalized ones, within a cultural context. In film, visibility highlights how LGBTQ+ identities are portrayed, recognized, or obscured, impacting societal perceptions and acceptance. The level of visibility influences not just the individuals represented but also broader cultural narratives, shaping how different identities are understood and validated in society.