Documentary backdrop image for The Celluloid Closet (1996)

1996102 minRdocumentary

7.2/ 10(120 ratings)• TMDB

Civil Rights

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The Celluloid Closet

1996102 minRdocumentary

7.2/ 10(120 ratings)• TMDB

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120 films provide a backdrop for interviews with industry figures discussing the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in Hollywood.

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Synopsis

120 films provide a backdrop for interviews with industry figures discussing the portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in Hollywood.

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People

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Jeffrey Friedmandirector

Rob Epsteindirector

Armistead Maupinwriter

Lily Tomlincast

Tony Curtiscast

Synopsis

Vito Russo's research on LGBTQ+ representation in film forms the backbone of The Celluloid Closet. Directed by Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman, the documentary uses clips from over 120 films to trace the portrayal of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender characters. It features interviews with industry figures such as Shirley MacLaine and Gore Vidal, discussing the evolution from negative stereotypes to more positive representations. The film premiered in April 1996 at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco before airing on HBO.

What Critics Say

Roger Ebert

A fascinating documentary about the history of homosexuality in the movies.

Roger EbertRead full article

Deep Dive

Why Watch

See interviews with Hollywood figures discussing LGBTQ representation.
Find out how censorship shaped film portrayals of LGBTQ characters.
Meet Vito Russo's legacy through his vision for the documentary.

Did You Know

Vito Russo's book was published in 1981 and inspired the film.
The film had a limited release in April 1996 at the Castro Theatre.
Lily Tomlin launched a fundraising campaign in honor of Vito Russo.
The film received four Emmy Award nominations in 1996.

Perfect For

LGBTQ film historyHollywood censorshipDocumentary enthusiasts

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who directed The Celluloid Closet?

The Celluloid Closet was directed and co-written by Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman.

What year was The Celluloid Closet released?

The Celluloid Closet was released in 1996.

What awards did The Celluloid Closet receive?

The film received four Emmy Award nominations, a Peabody Award, and won the Freedom of Expression award at the 1996 Sundance Film Festival.

Awards & Festivals

Sundance Film Festival

1996 • Official selection

Festival de Films Gays, Lesbiens, Bi, Trans & +++ de Paris

1996 • Official selection

Awards & Festivals

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What are people saying?

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