With more people portraying gays and lesbians as what they truly were, people like any other, there was an even greater number of acceptance emerging from both family and friends. Films such as Parting Glances, an independent film, was one of the earliest films aimed towards the aids epidemic that was afflicting the LGBT community. It helped spread the idea that all gays had aids and would spread t=it to everyone and this film was soon joined by others who helped spread this falsehood. It wasn't until the 90's when the hate towards the LGBT community that Hollywood had to take a different way to talk about the epidemic and how they portrayed the LGBT community. During this time other actors came out as gay or bi-sexual and younger people were coming out as well giving this time the name of the queer cinema. Other things that were seen as "only a homosexual would do this" was drag. During this time drag had leaped onto the screen which introduced many to the idea of seeing a man or women dressed as the opposite gender.
Certainly, there are famous actors who portray LGBT characters these days but this was really starting to grow during the 90's. With the growth and understanding of people, the LGBT community was able to be understood and seen as normal rather than mentally ill and the 90's really helped many.
Good blog James! I think Hollywood and celebrities played a huge role in helping the world become more accepting of the LGBT community. I think even today people are influenced by the messages portrayed in shows or movies and even by the things actors say or do. Tv definitely played a big part in the change of American society.
ReplyDeleteI liked how you went into different aspects of LGBTQ media being pushed forward. I also enjoyed how you mentioned more than just one example to show the real movement to a new diverse media platform.
ReplyDeleteIt's cool how the LGBT movement developed so quickly over a short period of time. It was majorly given a boost by the hollywood entertainment industry. Although there were many opponents to the LGBT movement back then and even now, these advances in LGBT pride gives people more confidence to come out.
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