Back when "Torch Song Trilogy" came out in 1988, acceptance of gay folks was far different than today...so much so that I am shocked the film was made in the first place. However, just because a lot of straight folks didn't go see the film when it was in the theaters does not mean you can't give the film a try now.
The film is based on Harvey Fierstein's one act plays...with three of them strung together to help create a portrait of many of the issues gay men have to deal with day to day. Among the many interesting issues in the film are his dealing with a bi-sexual lover who hasn't really come to terms with his attraction to other men, the loss of his lover and life partner due to a hate crime as well as his god-awful mother. This final issue creates the best moments for me and it was mostly later in the film. His mother claims to love and accept him but she is also full of snide comments, put-downs and hate...and hearing Arnold (Harvey Fierstein) finally exploding at her was magnificent. You can't help but be affected by these brutally honest scenes with the mother (Anne Bancroft)...and it is universal.
Overall, a very engaging and moving film...one of the better ones of the era...and a film, sadly, probably not seen by many straight viewers.
