Philadelphia

Synopsis:

Fearing it would compromise his career, lawyer Andrew Beckett hides his homosexuality and HIV status at a powerful Philadelphia law firm. But his secret is exposed when a colleague spots the illness’s telltale lesions. Fired shortly afterwards, Beckett resolves to sue for discrimination, teaming up with Joe Miller, the only lawyer willing to help.

Quick Thoughts:

Words cannot describe how powerful “Philadelphia” is as queer drama film – I’ll let it’s two Oscar wins tell you that! (Best Actor in Lead Role for Tom Hanks & Best Original Song). Often listed as one of the first major motion pictures to truly tackle the AIDS epidemic and bring its horrors to a mainstream, non-homosexual audience, it wasn’t without some faults. Most lament that it’s stereotypical and “too perfectly pieced together” – and about a decade “too late”, as the AIDS epidemic began in 1981 yet the film wasn’t released until 1993. However there is no doubt the powerful impact “Philadelphia” had on audiences. With major stars handling the lead roles (Tom Hanks credits his casting as crucial in bringing the subject matter to a wider audience, seeing a named star in the leading role) and an incredibly dramatic and captivating story, it’s clear why. If there’s a chance that you have not yet seen this queer drama film, you MUST find yourself a copy and watch “Philadelphia” – it’s that important!