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Homosexuality in Hollywood films: A contemporary paradox

1985; Routledge; Volume: 2; Issue: 1 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1080/15295038509360061

0739-3180

Jeffrey Nelson,

Digital Games and Media

This essay analyzes homosexual expression in five 1982 Hollywood motion pictures: Victor/Victoria, Making Love, Personal Best, Deathtrap, and Partners. The study shows that, as a group, the films work through paradox in carrying their message to the viewers. One paradox the films generate contrasts the homosexual as inferior with the homosexual as a healthy cog in society's mainstream; the second portrays the conflict between acceptance into society alongside its other members versus maintaining one's distinct identity as lesbian or gay. The study concludes that paradox can enrich audiences by urging them to view concepts in new and thought‐demanding ways.