Danger in Complacency

Last night, I went with friends to see the movie "The Hangover." After the film, however, the topic of conversation ended up being about a preview for the film, "Bruno" (being released on July 10th, 2009.) "Bruno" supposedly documents the antics of a gay australian fashion writer while simultaneously perpetuating the stereotype associated with a flamboyantly gay man. Of course, much controversy surrounds the films release as people ask the question of whether or not this is good for the LGBTQ community? Many involved in the film's production argue that by being so over-the-top the film exposes homophobia instead of perpetuating stereotypes. Hmmm....tell that to the 8th graders who will undoubtedly use lines from the film to taunt and tease any guy who displays even the slightest bit of effeminate behavior. In other words, a fine line exists between encouraging stereotypes and using hyperbole to expose prejudice. In my opinion, one main factor in crossing that line might be THE AUDIENCE. And, who is seeing these films? Sure -- adults, members of the LGBTQ community, but, undoubtedly a large percentage of people who may not understand that we are laughing at exposed homophobia instead of the homosexual character. (right, I know the movie is rated "R" but I also live on the planet earth where somehow underaged people STILL make their way into the theater...what.a.shock.)

Now, to be clear, this does not mean that I believe the film should not be released. In fact, I am truly excited to see it. But, I also believe some are undoubtedly going to take the wrong message away from the film and I wonder what can be done about this? Should the film have a disclaimer, as has been suggested by some, stating that the film does not encourage bigotry of any sort? I don't know.

What I do know is that there is certainly a little too much complacency--people have been to quick to assume that audiences will laugh at homophobia instead of homosexuality. Read some hate crimes statistics, talk to LGBTQ youth who have come out in junior high and high school, talk to the activists who are still working on EQUAL RIGHTS for the LGBTQ community--opinions might change. I am all for a good movie and a great laugh, but let's also realize that real lives can and will be affected by the sensitive subject matter and it would be nice to hear a little bit more about that and a little less about how this is just a flat-out WIN for LGBTQ visibility.

Here is a NYTIMES article that discusses some varying perspectives.