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The Celluloid Closet (1996)
Runtime: 1 hr 41 mins
Synopsis: Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman's documentary chronicles the way movies have portrayed homosexuals for the past 100 years and how these images, both positive and negative, have helped shape America's attitudes toward gays. Among the topics examined via interviews and film clips are the... Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman's documentary chronicles the way movies have portrayed homosexuals for the past 100 years and how these images, both positive and negative, have helped shape America's attitudes toward gays. Among the topics examined via interviews and film clips are the various gay stereotypes that recur onscreen, gay subtexts in such macho films as SPARTACUS and BEN-HUR, and how negative images of homosexuality created emotional conflict within the gay moviegoer. But the film also shows how the times have greatly changed, bringing more--and more realistic--gay characters to the silver screen. Interviewees include Susan Sarandon, Tony Curtis, Shirley MacLaine and Tom Hanks, among others. The film is based on the 1981 book by Vito Russo. [More]
Genre: Education/General Interest
Starring: Tony Curtis, Susan Sarandon, Tom Hanks, Shirley MacLaine
DVD Info
Release:
May 5, 2003
DVD Features:
- Region 1
- Keep Case
- Full Frame - 1.33
- Single Side - Dual Layer
Audio:
- Dolby Digital 2.0 - English
Additional Release Material:
- Audio Commentary - 1. Robert Epstein & Jeffrey Friedman - Filmmakers
- 2. Lily Tomlin - Narrator
- 3. Howard Rosenman
- 4. Arnold Glassman
- 5. Vito Russo Lecture
- Outtakes - RESCUED FROM THE CLOSET - 55 Minutes of outtakes
- Trailers - 1. SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER
- 2. THE OPPOSITE OF SEX
- 3. PHILADELPHIA
Text/Photo Galleries:
- Filmographies - 1. Cast & Crew
DVD-ROM FEATURES:
- Web Link to GLAAD Website
Reviews
Instead of an angry diatribe against Hollywood, the film shrewdly opts for a wity, often campy commentary by gay figures (Gore Vidal), directors (Wyler) and actors (Tom Hanks) who shed light on the context in which these films were made and viewed.
It's engrossing, brings a healthy sense of humor to the discussion, and enlightening without being bludgeoning.
An engaging documentary touching on Hollywood's on screen treatment of homosexuality.
Like a scrapbook of movie memorabilia from some of the greatest films ever made, it’s a welcome look back at the ever-changing times of the world around us.
this documentary makes it plain that Hollywood has hardly been a leader in social causes,
No less than a primer in the power of movies to redefine human nature and behavior.


Top Critic