Brokeback Mountain: Our Community's Common Bond > Brokeback Mountain Open Forum
Dealing With the Brokeback Non-Believers
starboardlight:
My observation (and admittedly it's is a generalization) is that the gay men who don't "get" BBM have a very contrarian streak in their points of view. The gay men that I know who hate this film, invariably have this personality trait. They often have a need to criticize the status quo and tend to like, no relish being an outsider. They use the film to criticize the Hollywood establishment, even though the film didn't come from the establishment. They use the film to criticize stereotypes, thought no one representation can break stereotypes all by itself. They focus on the minute details instead of seeing the bigger picture. They see the conventions, instead of seeing how the convention is used to turn it on its head. Often, they are young, angry, and militant. Many of us were that way, when we first came out. I was. As was my younger brother. I think I might not have appreciated the film had it come out in my early 20's. I guess for now, I'll just let be, as far as these angry gay men are concerned. We all mellow out eventually, and maybe then, they'll be able to appreciate the story for what it is.
Aussie Chris:
--- Quote from: starboardlight on April 10, 2006, 02:22:54 am ---My observation (and admittedly it's is a generalization) is that the gay men who don't "get" BBM have a very contrarian streak in their points of view...
--- End quote ---
Gee, they seem like real "fun types" to be around. Come to think of it, I do know one of these types myself and I make sure I keep a safe distance. From what I can see they get very little enjoyment out of anything unless it involves putting others down or in their place. Not really the sort of person who's opinion I would seek out.
Being a fairly even keeled, live-and-let-live person myself, I don't have a problem with anyone not liking BBM or anything else that I love. After all there have been plenty of films that others have enjoyed that possibly have merit but I didn't like - Requiem for a Dream comes to mind. But I do have a problem with the contrarians spreading their "good cheer" in my direction. I just wish they'd find something they do like and go off and do it. Far, far away from me! ;)
starboardlight:
--- Quote from: Aussie Chris on April 10, 2006, 04:14:17 am ---
--- Quote from: starboardlight on April 10, 2006, 02:22:54 am ---My observation (and admittedly it's is a generalization) is that the gay men who don't "get" BBM have a very contrarian streak in their points of view...
--- End quote ---
Gee, they seem like real "fun types" to be around.
--- End quote ---
lol. anyone remember carmenjonez?
ednbarby:
I do, Starbie! And of all the openly gay men in my company (I know of five off-hand), one of them is just like that and had the same criticisms for the movie. And he is exactly like that - it seems he feels that the only way to keep the upper hand is to keep putting everything and everyone around him down. The other four men, all very disparate in background and taste, thought it was one of the best movies they've ever seen. One is rivalling me for most times viewed. The others have just seen it for the second time since it came out on DVD and plan to buy it.
And Phillip, I *so* know what you mean about starting to feel not so happy about knowing your friend. I've had a woman friend for years that I wish I could cut loose. But it goes against my grain to be disloyal, no matter how damaging an established relationship is. Friends who know her say, "I can't believe you still talk to her after the things she's said to you." Glutton for punishment, I guess. Oh, and she's the one I mentioned at the old CT a while back who said she'd never see this movie because "man on man action isn't her thing." Mind you, this girl is the biggest potty-mouth you'd ever come across. More than happy to give you all the dirty details of every single sexual encounter (many extra-maritally) she's ever had. Ugh. Hypocritical much?
RouxB:
I pretty much had to give up on trying to "educate" friends. Initially I took everyone person I knew and loved to see it but at some point their lack of gushing love started to bug me as I was taking it personally. Now, if I feel the person is worth it-like my sister-I direct them to IMDb (with warnings about the trolls) or forward some of the great saved threads I have. This has given at least 2 of my friends a whole new lease on the movie.
One of my other friends tried to stage a "Brokeback Mountain Intervention" I told her to f**k off :P
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