Torch Song Trilogy (1988)
Directed by Paul Bogart
Genres - Drama, Romance |
Sub-Genres - Gay & Lesbian Films, Urban Comedy |
Release Date - Dec 14, 1988 (USA) |
Run Time - 120 min. |
Countries - United States |
MPAA Rating - R
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Synopsis by Hal Erickson
Harvey Fierstein's Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway hit was adapted for the screen by Fierstein himself. The playwright also repeats his stage role of female impersonator Arnold Beckoff, aka nightclub entertainer "Virginia Hamm." The three-part plotline, whittled down to accommodate the film's 117-minute running time, concerns Arnold's seriocomic efforts to find a lasting relationship. We first meet Arnold in 1971, when his heart is broken by his bisexual lover, Ed (Brian Kerwin). Next we find Arnold in 1973, enjoying short-lived happiness with his true love, Alan (Matthew Broderick). The final act takes place in 1980: Arnold, still grieving over Alan's sudden death and struggling to raise the young boy that the couple had adopted, has a long-anticipated showdown with his uncompromising mother, superbly played by Anne Bancroft. A witty film that is by turns touching and outrageous, Torch Song Trilogy works well despite its somewhat soft-pedaled approach to the material.
Characteristics
Moods
Themes
Keywords
love, child, drag-queen, family, female-impersonator, homosexual, mother
Attributes
High Artistic Quality