A Simple Guide to Queer Theory in Film & Cinema

Emerging in the early 1990s across several Western countries including the U.S., U.K., and Europe, Queer theory and the rhetorical study of topics. Which reflect on the media’s perception and perpetration of sexual binaries and gender disposition, is relatively childish in the industry having been studied for well under 50 years. The representation of queer theory in film and cinema. Although a multi-faceted approach to an incredibly complex subject, can be incredibly challenging to define and equally challenging to discuss. However, plenty of research, examples, and underlying elements of Queer theory in film have been established. 

So, let’s get reflect on Queer theory in film and cinema. And what it means in regards to representation of the Queer community. 

What is Queer Theory?

Before any true or meaningful understanding of Queer theory could possibly be introduced, one must first define the term “Queer theory” in its most basic sense.

Queer theory, by definition, diverts from the “traditional” or “normal” or “heteronormative” study model of human sexuality.

To acknowledge a gender and sexual practices which exist outside the heterosexual “norms”. Challenging the notion that the only “normal” desire is that which is between man and woman.

Instead recognizing that sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender identity can, and may, subvert the “traditional” “norms” of society. 

A Subversion

Okay, what does this all mean? In short, Queer theory recognizes that relationships, marriage, sex, and gender identity may all subvert from what society has long viewed as “normal”.

And can and will take on entirely different, powerfully complex, outcomes. Men may be attracted to women, or men, or men & women.

Likewise, women may be attracted to men, or women, or men & women. Finally, societal views of sexuality and gender “norms” have also been skewed.

Thus the ideas we carry in our heads as to what is “female-like” or “women-like” or “manly” or “masculine” are the result heteronormative social construct.

Challenges

Theorists have mixed representations as to which groups are included within the study of “Queer theory.”

Some theorists ascertain that “queer” represents a challenge to the normative nature of heterosexuality

I.E. those who are not heterosexual. Other theorists will claim that “queer” represents anyone who challenges or otherwise complicates the presumed distinction in gender or sexual orientation.

Such as those who are transgender, non-binary, or who do not share the same sexual orientation that has been “normalized” by society in particular.

Queer Theory in Film

With an understanding of the term “Queer” and what it may mean. Or how it could be defined by various theorists.

Does that mean that any film which includes someone who is openly gay should be studied as “queer cinema?”

Does Queer theory in film, thus, represent the study of any film that negates heteronormative culture?

The Argument 

Theorists argue that queer theory in film not only deals with the idea of the identity of those involved in same-sex partnerships.

But also the study of how same-sex partnerships impact other relationships with friends and family.

Additionally queer theory in film also looks at:

• Challenges faced by and perpetuated by the media in response to gender-binaries, sex-based binaries, and social inequalities.
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• Connections in the queer community.
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• Social and emotional challenges the queer community faces. Particularly those ostracized by family, friends, the church or the community.
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• Queer sexuality, particularly the study of sexuality among those who are asexual or do not particularly experience sexual desire.
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• Gay, lesbian and transgender issues in relationships, community, and society.

Consider This

By studying a film through the “lens” of queer theory, an entirely different perspective is delivered. Some theorists teach that films should be studied through different viewpoints.

In order to achieve unique perspectives in cinema.

For example, Professor Humphrey of Texas A&M University teaches students to utilize queer theory in film to approach movies from different angles in examining the subject matter. 

In doing so, he states that upper-level classes are able to see how sexual identity comes out in various films regardless of their origin.

New Queer Cinema

Potentially the most notable period for queer theory in film was the early 1990s. The term, “New Queer Cinema” was first coined in 1992.

By an academic professional and theorists by the name of Ruby Rich. These years brought forth a set of independently produced films which each had gay-themes or topics.

These films ranged from exposing homosexual relationships to overturning previously accepted conventions of male bonding as sexually innocent. 

Early History

New Queer Cinema, representative of what we now widely respect as Queer theory in film, was a movement towards acceptance and inclusion of queer-themed independent filmmaking.

Although early instances of queer cinema certainly could be seen in films that emerged throughout the early 1980s and into the 1990s.

It wasn’t until 1992 that films, which would bypass the “traditional” or “norms” of society and accept multiple sexualities, had a genre or a particular grouping in which they all could be connected.

Queer Theory in Film – Present Tense

Fast forward into the present-time, post 2010, the number of filmmakers that are openly members of the LGBTQ community.

And the number of films that identify multisexual relationships. Accepting relationships and gender configuration openly without placing a requirement on what “men” and “women” can or should do has certainly increased substantially.

Today, not only are there more lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or homosexual-related films than ever before.

The film community has largely embraced queer theory in film and spectators from all sides have embraced this community as well. 

The Takeaway

Although the premise of queer theory in film dos not defend, construct, or otherwise represent any particular identity (sexual or gender).

The support behind queer theory in film roots in exposing heteronormative assumptions.

Eliminating traditional boundaries that surround and otherwise protect heterosexual gender identities.

And breaking down the societal “norms” which have left so many feeling unaccepted in our society.