Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
Should a straight guy be allowed to portray queer roles in cinema? An ongoing debate surrounding the matter has raised several questions among the audiences. While on the one hand, fans question the authenticity of straight actors in gay roles, on the other, actors defend the practice by claiming that making one believe something is what acting is all about. Tom Hanks, the acclaimed actor known for his versatile performances, also discussed his iconic role as Andrew Beckett in the 1993 filmPhiladelphia.
After all, the actor received critical acclaim, including an Oscar and a Golden Globe, for his portrayal of a corporate attorney concealing his homosexuality and battling AIDS-related discrimination.
READ MORE:“I’m never gonna touch these things again”: Unlike Marlon Brando, 2 Times Oscar Winner Tom Hanks Returned His Prized Possessions for a Surprising Reason
Tom Hanks defended his controversial portrayal of a gay man inPhiladelphia
In a candid interview withThe New York Times Magazine,Tom Hanksexpressed his view that he would not take on the role of Beckett if the film were being cast today. This revelation sparked a debate online about the intersection of sexual orientation and casting choices, as well as the importance of authenticity in storytelling.
Reflecting on his role inPhiladelphia,Hanks shared his belief that a straight actor should not portray a gay character in contemporary cinema. He emphasized that the essence ofPhiladelphiawas to encourage acceptance and fight against fear. He further stated that people were not afraid of the movie because he, a straight actor, portrayed a gay man. However, he acknowledged that times have changed, and audiences now demand authenticity.
“Let’s address ‘could a straight man do what I did in “Philadelphia” now?’ No, and rightly so. The whole point of ‘Philadelphia’ was don’t be afraid. One of the reasons people weren’t afraid of that movie is that I was playing a gay man. We’re beyond that now, and I don’t think people would accept the inauthenticity of a straight guy playing a gay guy. It’s not a crime, it’s not boohoo, that someone would say we are going to demand more of a movie in the modern realm of authenticity.” ”
Hanks asserted that it would not be deemed acceptable for a straight actor to portray a gay character today, and he supports this shift in expectations.
READ MORE:Ben Affleck Was Nearly Replaced by Tom Hanks in $115M Thriller That Was Originally Set to Be Directed by First Ever Female Oscar-Winning Director
The Significance ofPhiladelphiain the Modern Hollywood vs Representation War
Directed by Jonathan Demme and written by Ron Nyswaner,Philadelphiais widely recognized as one of the pioneering Hollywood films that tackled the HIV/AIDS epidemic and homophobia. The movie delves into the story of Andrew Beckett, played by Hanks, who faces discrimination after his AIDS diagnosis. Alongside Hanks,Denzel Washingtondelivered a powerful performance as Beckett’s attorney. The movie garnered critical acclaim and shed light on important social issues of the time. In addition to Hanks’ Best Actor Academy Award, the film’s theme song,Streets of PhiladelphiabyBruce Springsteenalso received an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
But Hank’s comments regarding the casting of gay characters have generated mixed reactions on social media. Some Twitter users have questioned the connection between sexual orientation and acting abilities, suggesting that actors should be able to portray characters regardless of their own identity. Others have highlighted the significance of representation in film and stressed the importance of casting actors who share the experiences and perspectives of the characters they portray.
READ MORE:Steven Spielberg Was Against Tom Hanks to Kill Anyone in ‘Saving Private Ryan’: “I don’t think I want to see John Miller fire his gun”
However, despite the debates,Philadelphiastill stands as a significant film that contributed to raising awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and promoting acceptance, earning accolades for its impactful storytelling and performances by Hanks and his co-stars.
Source:Indie Wire
Devyani Sharma
Articles Published :288
With a portfolio of over 600 articles, Devyani Sharma is a freelance writer working in the Entertainment and Sports niche. With a Master’s Degree in English literature, Devyani places great importance on the power of words and their ability to connect with readers. When not busy watching sci-fi movies, action thrillers and comedies, Devyani indulges in her love for fiction novels and writing about NASCAR races.
