Okay, let's be real. When you hear "Another Gay Movie," what comes to mind? Probably not highbrow cinema, right? But beneath the raunchy humor and over-the-top characters, there's actually something interesting going on - not just with the movie itself, but with how we define genre and why certain films stick around in the cultural consciousness.
Before we dive into the depths of "Another Gay Movie," it's important to understand where it fits in the grand scheme of film history. Think about the Western. Once a dominant force in American cinema, fueled by pulp novels and a romanticized view of the frontier, it eventually became a genre ripe for deconstruction. Can you name a Western made after the mid-80s that wasn't trying to subvert expectations?
The sheer ubiquity of Westerns on television in the 1950s is mind-boggling. And then… poof. Gone. (Well, not entirely, but you get the point.)
This begs the question: what makes a genre? Is it simply a set of recurring tropes? Or is it something more - a reflection of the zeitgeist, a cultural moment captured on screen?
Consider the superhero film. For decades, it was relegated to subgenre status under the broader umbrella of "action." Superman and Batman were the exceptions, not the rule. But look at the last decade! Superhero movies are everywhere. They've arguably transcended subgenre status and become a force of their own.
But does popularity alone define a genre? That's debatable. A genre needs staying power. A fleeting trend, no matter how big, doesn't necessarily qualify.
So, where does "Another Gay Movie" fit into this discussion? On the surface, it's a raunchy comedy about four gay high school friends trying to lose their virginity. It leans heavily into stereotypes, and isn't afraid to push boundaries (and maybe even offend some viewers).
The sequels, including "Another Gay Sequel: Gays Gone Wild!," double down on the outrageousness, throwing in everything from mermen to overly enthusiastic Spring Break contests. It's… a lot. Is it funny? That depends on your sense of humor. Some find it hilarious, others find it… less so. The humor is often gross and the script has the tendency to wander, but the cast is attractive, rearing to go and there are also some genuine performances.
Despite its flaws, "Another Gay Movie" has a certain staying power. Why? Maybe it's the shock value. Maybe it's the relatability of the characters, even in their exaggerated forms. Or maybe it's the simple fact that it exists - a relatively mainstream film that puts gay characters and experiences front and center.
Beneath the surface, "Another Gay Movie" also touches on themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the pressures of adolescence. It's a reminder that everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, goes through the awkward and often hilarious process of figuring out who they are.
"It's very colorful and the cast is rearing to go. They're all attractive and Clabots and Mosser have beautiful bodies. There's no frontal nudity of them though--just back. The acting is not bad. Mosser overacts dreadfully at first but calms down as the movie progresses and gives out a very affecting performance. Davies and Clabots portray a gay couple realistically and are quite good. Blechman annoys me WAY too femme but he was good. Corrigan whose did gay porn is quite handsome and charming as a merman. The movie also has a few serious and well-done moments with the guys discussing relationships."
So, is "Another Gay Movie" a genre-defining film? Probably not. But it's a fascinating example of how a movie, even a flawed one, can capture a cultural moment and spark a conversation. Whether you love it, hate it, or are simply bemused by it, there's no denying that it's left its mark.
And who knows? Maybe someday, LGBTQ+ cinema will be recognized as a distinct genre. After all, stranger things have happened.