LGBTQ+ Representation in TV and Film: The Good, the Indirect, and the Bad

Exploring the Impact of LGBTQ+ Representation in Popular Entertainment

Over the years, LGBTQ+ representation has made significant strides in television and film, with many projects successfully incorporating diverse and authentic portrayals. However, not all attempts at representation have been successful, leading to negative and sometimes insensitive depictions. In this article, we will examine examples of both effective and problematic LGBTQ+ representation, highlighting the importance of authentic storytelling and the impact it has on audiences.

The Good:

“Will & Grace”: Paving the Way for LGBTQ+ Representation

In 1998, “Will & Grace” broke new ground by featuring openly gay characters on television. Despite facing criticism for stereotypical portrayals, the show played a crucial role in normalizing the presence of gay characters during a time when acceptance was limited.

“But I’m a Cheerleader”: A Cult Classic

Released in 1999, “But I’m a Cheerleader” remains a beloved lesbian classic. The film, centered around a closeted lesbian cheerleader sent to a conversion camp, was ahead of its time and continues to resonate with audiences.

“Heartstopper”: Normalizing Queer Characters in Teenage Stories

Netflix’s “Heartstopper,” based on Alice Oseman’s webcomics and graphic novels, offers a diverse cast of primarily LGBTQ+ characters navigating the challenges of adolescence. The series is known for its authentic portrayal of queer experiences and its unique art style.

“Bottoms”: Comedy and LGBTQ+ Representation

The comedy film “Bottoms” follows two lesbian best friends who start an all-female fight club to get closer to their crushes. With its entertaining storyline and positive LGBTQ+ representation, the film offers a refreshing and humorous take on queer experiences.

Other Notable Films with Queer Representation

“I Care a Lot,” “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” and “Carol” are among the many popular movies celebrated for their authentic queer storylines and representation.

Indirect Representation:

“Schitt’s Creek”: Queer Characters with Multi-Dimensional Storylines

The hit comedy series “Schitt’s Creek” features David Rose, a pansexual character whose sexuality is an important part of his identity but does not solely define his role within the show. This nuanced portrayal showcases the potential for LGBTQ+ characters to have multi-dimensional storylines.

“The Morning Show”: A Mixed Bag of LGBTQ+ Representation

While “The Morning Show” incorporates a sapphic relationship between two characters, the execution of LGBTQ+ representation varies throughout the series. In some seasons, the representation is well-executed and layered, while in others, it feels more like a marketing tactic than an authentic exploration of queer stories.

“Booksmart”: Subtle and Effective Representation

Olivia Wilde’s coming-of-age comedy, “Booksmart,” seamlessly incorporates LGBTQ+ representation without making it the central focus. The film’s portrayal of a gay character adds depth to the story without overshadowing the overall narrative.

Other Shows with Prominent LGBTQ+ Relationships

Series like “Euphoria” and “Sex Education” prominently feature LGBTQ+ relationships without reducing them to a singular focus, showcasing the diversity of queer experiences.

The Bad:

“They/Them”: A Failed Attempt at LGBTQ+ Representation

The slasher film “They/Them” set in a conversion camp portrays gay characters through stereotypes and homophobic undertones, exemplifying poor execution of queer representation.

“Riverdale”: Stereotypical and Problematic Portrayals

While “Riverdale” attempts to incorporate LGBTQ+ representation, it falls short with stereotypical and sometimes problematic portrayals of gay characters. The show’s use of same-sex kisses for shock value diminishes the authenticity of the representation.

“Pretty Little Liars”: Forced Representation and “Bury Your Gays” Trope

“Pretty Little Liars” features a forced LGBTQ+ relationship that falls into the problematic trope of “bury your gays.” While the show tackles homophobia, the execution of the queer storyline is flawed.

“Orange Is the New Black”: Bisexual Erasure and Oversimplification

While “Orange Is the New Black” includes positive LGBTQ+ representation, the portrayal of the main protagonist, Piper Chapman, is criticized for bisexual erasure. The show presents her sexuality as a binary choice, failing to acknowledge the complexity of bisexuality.

Conclusion:

LGBTQ+ representation in television and film has come a long way, with many projects successfully incorporating diverse and authentic portrayals. These representations not only help normalize LGBTQ+ experiences but also provide a platform for queer stories to be heard. However, it is crucial for creators to approach LGBTQ+ representation with care, avoiding stereotypes, tokenism, and harmful tropes. By striving for authenticity and multi-dimensional storytelling, the entertainment industry can continue to contribute positively to the LGBTQ+ community and promote understanding and acceptance among audiences.


Posted

in

by

Tags:

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *