'Outrage' will inspire gay-rights dialogue

Published: Thursday, June 18, 2009 3:00 p.m. MDT
 |  E-MAIL | PRINT | FONT + - 

OUTRAGE — ★★★ — Documentary feature about gay politics; not rated, probable R (vulgarity, profanity, slurs, violence); Broadway Centre

"Outrage" is right.

No documentary feature outside of the works of Michael Moore will create as many strong opinions as does this particular film.

However, no matter where you fall on the issues of gay rights and gay marriage, the movie is still of interest.

It poses some serious questions about the current political climate. The fact that it will get people talking definitely makes it worthwhile.

In "Outrage," Kirby Dick ("This Film Is Not Yet Rated") looks at politicians who have "come out of the closet," so to speak. (His examples include former New Jersey Gov. James McGreevey and Arizona Sen. Jim Kolbe.)

Dick also looks at politicians who have supposed, anti-gay legislation or have not been friendly to the gay-rights movement.

And a large portion of the film examines the career of Michael Rogers, a blogger who has become infamous for "outing" gay politicians — particularly, conservatives and Republicans.

Of late, he has turned his efforts to Idaho Sen. Larry Craig and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist. According to Rogers, there are rumors and past behaviors that might make some at least question the sexuality of both men.

It's unfortunate that the filmmakers apparently couldn't get any interview time with either Craig or Crist.

But Dick tries to balance the treatment of each subject. He also seems to question the ethics of Rogers and other like-minded individuals.

(A section that examines the fall-out from McGreevey and his public disclosure — which also features McGreevey's appropriately tight-lipped ex-wife — is particularly fascinating.)

"Outrage" is not rated but would probably receive an R for frank sexual references and language (vulgarity, profanity), derogatory language and slurs (most of it in regards to sexual orientation), and some violent imagery (rioting and the after-effects of a "gay bashing"). Running time: 90 minutes.

E-mail: jeff@desnews.com

Recent comments

Well put. Unfortunately many people do not believe like that.

@One Human Family | June 19, 2009 at 4:31 p.m.

I think this is an important film. One has to ask why gay people...

One Human Family | June 19, 2009 at 4:22 p.m.

Thanks, but no thanks. Why would I waste two hours on the...

Anonymous | June 18, 2009 at 4:09 p.m.

Image
Magnolia Pictures

Barney Frank in "Outrage," a Magnolia Pictures release.

previousnext

Latest comments

I hope that we never forget Pearl Harbor and the treachery involved. It will...

Playing time tough for Jazz

The Jazz have the same problem that has been plaguing them for years. They...

A few days ago someone asked me if I knew of a "LeBaron" who was hit by a car...

To: Break the law and get hurt" I don't think you're right about the...

Eager=Liar just like Plain

N.Y. Senate rejects gay marriage

Some heterosexual couples cannot reproduce. You're right. But they are...

Al Pacino is no stranger to Shakespeare having completed a few movies...

Utah/BYU rivalry can be more civil

Clearly, you didn't read this article. Chris Hill stated that security will...

How do you stop healthcare reform? Put Palin in charge of it and tell her it...

Texas' McCoy a winner like no other

Best wishes for a bright and promising career in football. Colt seems like...

Advertisements