As active members of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), Watts says she and her husband often find themselves defending Utah. At national PFLAG events, the non-active LDS couple is often asked, "How could you be parents of gay kids and survive in Utah?"

Watts, who has six children, two of whom are gay, and seven grandchildren, says Ledger's comments about her home state are unfortunate.

"There are good people in Utah," she said.

Watts says she understands that many Utahns support Miller's decision. Dalane England of Bountiful, a member of the conservative issues group Utah Eagle Forum, said Miller is being unfairly attacked for showing integrity.

"Everyone has their own personal standards, their own guidelines and where they draw the line," she said. "I just feel like even people in Utah are being judgmental. It's not a censorship issue. . . . No one is stopping anyone from seeing it.

"He (Miller) is saying, 'I own a business and I have my standards, and this is something I have a standard for that does not stoop to this degree.' "

England said watching the movie doesn't interest her. "It's below my standard, and I'm saddened that isn't below most people's standard. I don't really want to watch people engage in sex. I don't care what kind of sex it is."

Rob Weidmann of Provo was astounded when he learned that he wouldn't have to drive to Salt Lake to see the film because it was opening in Utah County. While he's active LDS, Weidmann said he can identify with those poking fun at the Beehive State.

"I think it is representative of our unwillingness to be more accepting," he said. "I don't see it doing well in the state in general. It goes with the definition of 'conservative.' "

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E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com; nwarburton@desnews.com