Some of the best modern movies and television shows include LGBTQIA characters. These individuals are an essential representation of cultural advancement, but their depiction wasn’t always the same. Censorship and public opinions have drastically affected LGBTQIA representation on TV networks and film sets in past generations. Here's a closer look at the history of representation and how we got to a place where the future looks brighter.

How Were LGBTQIA People Historically Represented in Film?

In the past, LGBTQIA characters were depicted as outcasts or stereotypes based on public misperceptions. Gay males were often used for comedic relief and, in some cases, as villains tormented by self-loathing. This often coincided with public discrimination of LGBTQIA individuals, as cinema and TV networks were either afraid to break past stereotypes or were simply playing along with them to appeal to a larger audience.

How Did Censorship Affect Representation?

Beginning in 1934, the Motion Picture Production Code, also called the Hays Code, banned many acts and belief systems from movies. While not blatantly stated, this often included LGBTQIA characters. The Hays Code was in place until 1968. Even after restrictions were lifted, LGBTQIA characters were rare in movies and television series.

It wasn’t until the New Queer Cinema movement in the early 1990s that LGBTQIA characters and topics became mainstream. Historically, queer cinema centered around gay male characters. Part of the 90s movement was also overcoming “lesbian invisibility” and depicting LGBTQIA characters equally on screen, such as Go Fish in 1994 and The Watermelon Woman in 1996.

How Is Representation Changing?

New Queer Cinema continued into the 21st century and was the foundation for LGBTQIA acceptance in mainstream film. Moonlight, released in 2017, was the first LGBTQIA film to earn the Oscar for Best Picture. Other recent films have championed famous LGBTQIA individuals, including Bohemian Rhapsody, which documents lead singer Freddy Mercury of the band Queen, Rocket Man about musician Sir Elton John, and Milk, about American politician Harvey Milk. 

As with most movements worth investing in, there is still much work to do. However, public perception has changed dramatically in the new century, and the LGBTQIA community is making great strides in overcoming its underrepresentation in cinema and TV network broadcasts. 

If you want to enjoy LGBTQIA movies and shows, explore iElevate App. This Atlanta, GA, organization champions the Black LGBTQIA community, and subscribers nationwide can explore many programs on their streaming TV app. They also offer live television and documentaries. Receive updates about their TV network by visiting their Facebook page. Call (404) 789-7734 to discuss subscribing.