From Deseret News archives:
'Outrage' will inspire gay-rights dialogue
Talking pictures
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
