Examining Homosexuality in the Third Golden Age of Philippine Cinema

Abstract

Philippine cinema has long history of engaging with LGBTQIA+ issues, making it a practical area of inquiry regarding gender and sexual minorities. In line with this, the study aimed to determine how homosexuality is portrayed in select Filipino films from the Third Golden Age of Philippine Cinema. Through a qualitative content analysis, the study sought to examine the portrayal of same sex couples to draw out common themes and trends in movies from the last two decades. The results show differences between films from the 2000s and the 2010s, particularly in such aspects as diversity of gay and lesbian characters, gendered portrayal of relationships, as well as commonalities in portrayals of victimization and sociopolitical conditions. Furthermore, the study reveals that whether it is individual characteristics, interpersonal relationships, or sociopolitical conditions, Philippine cinema’s portrayal of homosexuality is informed by heteronormative values and assumptions. Philippine cinema has seen some tremendous changes in terms of diversifying gay and lesbian characters, as well as deconstructing gendered stereotypes in relationships. However, the sociopolitical realities faced by Filipino homosexuals, characterized by discrimination and unequal rights, remain prominent in these films.