Vintage gay films
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In that spirit, here are a few groundbreaking pieces of queer cinema from early European, pre-code American, and the silent era of film, because we’ve always been here and we’ve always been queer.
Making a Man of Her, 1912 (dir. As the events unfold, Sonny becomes an inadvertent anti-hero, driven by desperation and a sense of societal injustice.Based on a true story, the film’s narrative is a roller-coaster of emotions, addressing themes of crime, media sensationalism, and the human psyche under pressure.
This film stars Katharine Hepburn in only her second film role. The film was made in response to Germany’s then law against homosexuality. After an argument with her fiancé, she takes the seeds and wakes up the next day a man. The film has been restored as best it can be using still images and documentation to fill in the missing material.
Salomé (1923)
According to the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, the 1923 film "Salomé" is an adaptation of Oscar Wilde's 1891 one-act play and is regarded as almost entirely the work of actress Alla Nazimova and designer Natacha Rambova.
It sheds light on the internal conflicts faced by the characters as they grapple with the demands of duty and the desires of their hearts.
When a tragic incident occurs, Fergus finds himself entangled with Jody’s girlfriend, Dil. The narrative explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the intricacies of human relationships amidst political turmoil and personal dilemmas.
The Crying Game delves into human emotions and societal prejudices, challenging preconceived notions.
Mathias’ work often delves into themes of identity, love, and resilience.
The film Bent is a haunting drama set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany. D. W. Griffith)
Based on the deuterocanonical Book of Judith, historian Susan Stryker made the case for the film’s transness in the documentary Disclosure.
The Danger Girl, 1916 (dir.
The story involves a man named Franz, who has fallen on hard times with his wife. As a result, it became trendy to also dress in a more masculine way. The film (which won the very first Oscar for Best Picture according to Oscars.org) is set during World War I and follows two pilots as they compete for the affections of a woman — a scenario that doesn't seem like it has much to do with LGBTQ+ issues at all.
But as Far Out Magazine points out, under the surface, it's a very different story.
These films provide a captivating glimpse into the lives, loves, and struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals in various historical contexts. The film offers a powerful exploration of love, sacrifice, and the human spirit’s triumph over hatred and oppression.
A Love to Hide is a compelling film that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of World War II and the Holocaust.
According to Film at Lincoln Center, the story focuses on heiress Lillian Travers, who comes into possession of magic seeds that transform people into the opposite gender. Their kiss is on the lips and leaves no doubt as to their desire for each other.
The film isn't a total triumph in the history of LGBTQ+ film: Its setting at a school of young women and the power- and age-imbalanced relationship between student and teacher mars what could have been a triumphant cultural moment.
Queen Christina (1933)
As noted by NBC News, Queen Christina of Sweden, who ruled in the 17th century, has been the subject of much debate concerning her sexuality.
His notable filmography includes The Gymnast (2006), another critically acclaimed film that showcases his directorial prowess and thematic depth.
The film revolves around the character of Alexandra Everett, a decorated Marine officer dismissed under the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. Alexandra returns to her hometown and grapples with the challenges of transitioning to civilian life while concealing her true identity.
Sidney Drew)
Based on a novel from 1891, a woman visits Florida where she buys some magic seeds that can turn a man into a woman and vice versa. I'm not looking for nickel and dime contributions.
They shine a light on the often-overlooked narratives of the gay experience, bringing depth and diversity to our understanding of history and the complex tapestry of human emotions and societal interactions through the ages.
In this article, we dive into the interesting world of gay historical movies, seeking to understand how filmmakers navigate the delicate balance between historical accuracy and compelling storytelling.
Schnabel made his mark in the art world in the 1970s with his unique approach to painting, incorporating unconventional materials and textures. The film offers a poignant reminder of the strength of love and the courage required to embrace it, even in the most trying circumstances.