The portrayals of LGBTQIA+ characters in American films have varied considerably during movie history, as noted from as early as the 1912 Western Algie the Miner on up to contemporary films. Many times, however, the characters were not depicted in a positive light. For example, some were portrayed as threats to society, comic relief, or as traditional stereotypes. Some films also included gay characters who were “straight-washed,” or some were erased altogether from the original source material. In this work, 52 writers illuminate 100+ films, in an A-to-Z format, with critical essays that examine the plots, characters, and responses from media outlets. Profiled films include both the problematic and the inspiring. The majority of films are from the past three decades, although there are a handful of vintage films, including the 1946 movie Gilda and Hitchcock’s 1940 film Rope. An excellent companion to the 2018 Encyclopedia of Racism in American Films and the 2019 Encyclopedia of Sexism in American Films. A valuable reference guide for film collections and LGBTQIA+ studies.

Library Journal, Starred Review