These videos may be requested through the MLP Video Lending Library.
A Place at the Table (20 minutes, 1995) Members of Mt Auburn Presbyterian Church, Cincinnati, Ohio share the meaning and significance of developing a ministry of welcome, as a More Light church, which includes gay and lesbian people, African-Americans and people of all ages and economic background.
A Time for Caring: A Pastoral Approach to Persons with AIDS (Video with study guide, 37 minutes, 1989) Prepared by Lazarus Project, West Hollywood CA. Describes one congregation's response to ministry with persons with AIDS.
Acts of Kindness: HIV/AIDS Stories of Mutual Ministry (Video with study guide, 28 minutes, 1991) Produced by David Thompson. Shows with stories by people of faith how the church and individuals are responding with acts of kindness to those who are affected by this epidemic.
After Goodbye: An AIDS Story (60 minutes, 1993) Produced by Ginny Martin, KERA-TV, Dallas/Ft Worth for PBS, 1993. Award-winning actress Ruby Dee narrates this powerful documentary about the impact of AIDS on the families, friends and members of Dallas' internationally acclaimed Turtle Creek Chorale. This chorus of 200 men has lost more than 60 of its members to AIDS in the past decade. Although grief is a constant presence, "After Goodbye" is a testament to the amazing strength of the human spirit.
All God's Children (26 minutes, 1996) Produced by Woman Vision. Contains interviews with African-American leaders who support gay and lesbian rights. The Rev. Jesse Jackson, Senator Carol Moseley-Braun and Congresswoman Maxine Waters are among the black pastors and leaders who are interviewed. Harvard professor Cornell West is also interviewed. "If I have one word for fellow Christians, I would ask them to keep their eyes on the love of Jesus and to not confuse the blood at Calvary with the Kool-Aid of homophobia in America," West said in the video. "By being open enough to everybody, it means that we have to call into question our own particular prejudices that we inherit that have nothing to do with the loving gospel of Jesus."
Always My Kid: A Family Guide to Understanding Homosexuality (74 minutes, 1994) Triangle Video Productions. Explores personal stories of coming out and the reactions and questions which immediately follow.
Be True to Yourself (Video and study guide, 28 minutes, 1991) Produced by Twentyfirst Century News, Tucson, AZ. Gay male couple, Bob and Rod Jackson-Paris, has conversation with 10 teenagers, gay and straight.
Before Stonewall: The Making of a Gay and Lesbian Community (87 minutes, 1986) Produced by John Scagliotti, 1986. Winner of 2 Emmy Awards including Best Historical Program, this documentary, narrated by author Rita Mae Brown, uses film archives and interviews to relate the sometimes horrifying public and private existences experienced by American homosexuals from around 1920 to the present day.
The Brandon Teena Story (1997, 88 minutes) A powerful and emotionally moving documentary that delves into the nature of sexual identity as it relates to the senseless injustice of the brutal murder of a young female to male transsexual. In 1993, Brandon Teena was a fresh-scrubbed young man of twenty who moved to the small town of Falls City, Nebraska. He soon began dating girls. But the truth came out that he was biologically a woman, a discovery that prompted two of his former friends to beat and rape him. After going to the shockingly indifferent authorities, she went into hiding, only to be discovered and then killed, along with two friends. A bleak tale, but one that is given exhaustive and heart-felt handling by the filmmakers who had extraordinary access to all of the involved; from Brandon’s mother and sister, his female lovers (who claim "he know how to treat a lady"), friends, the police and even the imprisoned killers. Compiling their extraordinary stories into a portrait, what comes across is the all-too-short life of a troubled young person who found her real self in living as a man, only to see it snatched away by fearful homophobia, and ignorance.
Can We Just Talk About It? The Church and Homosexuality (35 minutes, 1996) Dr Ben Johnson, Professor of Christian Spirituality, Columbia Theological Seminary, hosts interviews with three people: Thomas Pritchard, candidate for Minister of Word and Sacrament who grew up as a missionary kid in Zaire, Africa, Dr Walter Brueggemann, Professor of Old Testament and Dr Charles Cousar, Professor of New Testament, both of the Seminary.
The Celluloid Closet (1995, 102 minutes)
Inspired by the late Vito Russo's book on the depiction of homosexuality in Hollywood cinema, this funny, and occasionally moving documentary offers -- through interviews and a vast assortment of film clips -- a candid mini-history of gays and lesbians on-screen. The Celluloid Closet takes a chronological approach to the subject, offering clips from the turn of the century (The Gay Brothers) thru the silents to the effeminate caricatures of the 1930s (Broadway Melody), the pitiful homosexual of the 1950s and '60s, the violently deviant homosexual of the '70s and '80s, and concluding with the squeaky clean image of recent times. While encompassing in scope, the film is too simplistic and suffers from the lack of critical analysis and a central point-of-view. Only Tony Curtis and Susan Sarandon offer insight into the queer roles they have played. With that said, however, The Celluloid Closet is more than recommended (and should be required viewing for those interested in the subject.
Church Sponsored Halloween Hell Houses (40 minutes, 1995) November 1995 taping of Phil Donahue Show explores the new phenomenon of Halloween Hell House around the country during Halloween and their anti-gay, anti-choice message. Features Rev Loraine Lafontaine of Denver Presbytery, Colorado, who offers an alternative Christian message of hope, justice and love.
Coming Out Under Fire (1994, 71 minutes) Adding yet another significant chapter in transposing oral lesbian/gay history onto film/video, this entertaining and eye-opening documentary centers on nine lesbians and gay men and their experiences as "undesirables" in the armed forces during World War II. Based on Allen Berube's book "Coming Out under Fire: The History of Gay Men and Women in World War II," the film provides both a historical overview of the American government's shifting attitudes towards gays in the military as well as allowing the interviewees to describe vivid personal experiences of the discriminatory practices of their own government. The film comes alive when the often eloquent vets recount both their good times (camaraderie with other gays/lesbians, wartime romances) and bad (arrests and discharges) living as closeted homosexuals in an organization that viewed them as either unfit for service, morally suspect or potentially hazardous to morale. At least 9,000 gay men and women were dishonorably discharged during WWII.
The Cross and the Star (1990, 53 minutes)
The role of Christianity in the Holocaust, a subject long shrouded in mystery and conflicting opinions, is the contentious subject explored in this informative documentary directed by Michalczyk, a former Jesuit. Interviewed are Jews and Christians alike -- from scholars, clergy and Holocaust survivors but sadly not with now-dead government and religious leaders of the time. A thought-provoking historical and political exploration in anti-Semitism and religious animosity.
Encouraging Marriage, Commitment, Faithfulness: An Update on the Hawaii Equal Rights Marriage Project (20 minutes, 1996) Attorney Dan Foley, who represents the gay/lesbian plaintiffs in the Hawaii case, Baehr v Miike, provides background and an update on what is happening in Hawaii and its potential effect on the rest of the country.
Eve's Daughters(26 minutes, 1995) Produced by John Ankele and Anne Macksoud "Leonardo's Children", New York NY. Features Lisa Larges, Catherine Poethig, Connie Staff, Janie Spahr and others sharing their journeys to liberation as lesbians from heterosexism and subjugation as women by our society. They embody the incredible joy, "aliveness" and gifts to the church and community when we experience this liberation.
Frontline: Assault on Gay America Explores the murder of Billy Jack Gaither of Alabama and Matthew Shepard of Wyoming. What are the roots of homophobia in America?
Gay Youth
(40 minutes, 1992) Produced by Pam Walton. Bay Area
Network of Gay and Lesbian Youth
Highly recommended documentary focuses on lives of two teenagers. A mother talks about her
gay son's life and of his suicide, which may have been prevented with better understanding
and support. In a second segment, a 17 year-old lesbian prepares for her high school prom.
Gertrude Stein -- When This You See, Remember Me (1970, 82 minutes)
The amazing life of the lesbian author and art collector is revealed through her own words and those of her many famous friends including T.S. Eliot, Pablo Picasso and her lover, Alice B. Toklas.
I Am My Own Woman (1992, 90 minutes) This is a wonderfully inspiring film of one person's determined efforts to be exactly what he wants to be. A documentary with re-created dramatic scenes intercut throughout, the film tells the courageous story of Charlotte von Mahsldorf, born Lother Berfelde, a transvestite who realizes his dream of living life as a woman. The story follows the events of her life, from her teenage years during WWII to operating an East Berlin museum. Despite the repression of the Communists, attacks by skinheads and public scorn, Miss Charlotte retains an amazingly sunny outlook as she freely goes about her life as a woman. Two actors play Charlotte as the young Lother/Charlotte, and Charlotte plays herself in the later years. An unforgettable portrait of a unique individual who bravely lived his life as she saw fit. (German with English subtitles)
Journey of the Heart (58 minutes, 1992) Produced by John Ankele and Ann Macksoud, New York NY. Documentary focuses on racism and homophobia as obstacles on the spiritual journey. Facing fears of difference enables us to be transformed and gives us freedom. Racism segment features Riverside Church, New York City. Homophobia segment features Downtown United Presbyterian Church and is shortened segment of "Maybe We're Talking..."
Life Stories on Growing Up Gay in the Christian Church (48 minutes, but ideal for two 24 minute video presentations, 1994) The Lazarus Project, West Hollywood CA. Features 6 gay/lesbian Christians, including: Lisa, a clergy woman both affirmed but limited by the church, George, who has his Doctorate in Ministry but is denied ordination, and Doug, who is principal of an elementary school honored as model of the year in the LA district. Numerous California cable stations have broadcast this video.
Listening, Learning, Loving (30 minutes, 1989) Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays - Detroit. A look at the "coming out process from the viewpoint of parents, as well as discussion on the "coming out" process of parents. Talks of the difficulties encountered during these processes as well as newfound relationships which develop.
Living With Pride: Ruth Ellis @ 100 Ruth is the oldest "out" African American lesbian known. See what can happen if one lives long, ages well and also lives with PRIDE.
Long Time Comin' (1980, 96 minutes)
Two African-Canadian women -- painter Grace Channer and singer Faith Nolan -- both lesbian artists committed to feminist causes and social change, are finely drawn in this revealing and involving documentary. Through Nolan's politically charged folk songs and Channer's lesbian Afro-centric canvases, the two celebrate their social concerns: feminism, lesbianism and being black. A fine portrait of two memorable women.
Maurice (1987, 140 minutes) With the same reverence and regal authority he brought to A Room with a View, director James Ivory has wonderfully adapted E. M. Forster's semiautobiography. Set in pre-WWI England, the film examines the social and sexual repression of the era in this story of the emotional conflict facing a college student coming to terms with his homosexuality. Wilby is perfectly cast in the title role, Grant gives a precise performance as his platonic lover who transforms from free spirit to social prig, and Graves is splendid as the handsome gardener who awakens Maurice's dormant feelings.
Maybe We're Talking About a Different God: The Church and Homosexuality (29 minutes and study guide, 1993) Produced by John Ankele and Ann Macksoud, New York NY. Features the Rev Jane Adams Spahr, the Rev Coni Staff and members of the Downtown United Presbyterian Church, Rochester, NY. Documentary explores homophobia within the church and the transformation experienced in people's lives through the calling of the Rev Jane Spahr as co-pastor to Downtown Church. Affirms the celebrative lives of gay/lesbian people and calls the church to be the inclusive community of faith for all God's children.
Mission Jesus' Style: A Networking Tour of the Americas (54 minutes, 1995) This video follows two gay missionaries who traveled from Mexico City over 7 months through 16 countries to establish libraries and encourage local Christians to develop outreach ministries to lesbians and gays in central and south America. Sponsored by The Other Sheep, Multicultural Ministries with Sexual Minorities, Rev Dr Thomas D Hanks, Executive Director, the journey visits with Bethesda United Presbyterian Church, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The Bethesda Church has developed an active outreach to gays, lesbians and transgender persons in their community.
Not for Ourselves Alone: The Story of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. Superb footage of their home in Rochester and other locales in upstate New York; two women who worked tirelessly for women's rights.
On Being Gay: A Conversation with Brian McNaught (two 40-minute segments, 1986) Encourages gay and non-gay viewers to realize their individual potential and to replace self-hate with self-esteem, self-doubt with self-knowledge, self-consciousness with self-confidence.
One Nation Under God (1993, 84 minutes) This low-budget documentary investigates the organizations and people who try to "cure" gays and lesbians. The film offers screen time to both sides of the debate including interviews with the directors of "recovery programs," professionals opposed to their work, ex-gays who claim they are now straight, and the former ex-gays who claim that it is all a farce. The film's most eloquent and perceptive speakers are Michael and Gary, founding members of Exodus and now former ex-gays who voice the strongest condemnation of these organizations that expouse radical "curative" treatment.
Scared to Death: Gay Youth Suicide (28 minutes, 1993) Prepared by Lazarus Project, West Hollywood CA. Over 30% of youth suicide in U.S. are attributed to young gays, lesbians and bisexuals living in a homophobic society.
Spread the Word (Video with study guide) Teens talk with teens about AIDS.
Straight From the Heart (24 minutes) Woman Vision. Moving accounts of parents' struggle with homophobia upon learning their child is lesbian or gay. These parents journey through the misinformation of the Radical Right to a new understanding of the children they love.
The Rhetoric of Intolerance: An Open-Letter Video to Pat Robertson from Dr. Mel White (Video and users guide, 30 minutes, 1996)
We Are All Children of God (25 minutes, 1996) Several Lesbian and gay Presbyterians share their spiritual journeys and wish for the church to become the welcoming place God intends. Features Janie Spahr, Chris Glaser, Howard Warren, Fred Davie, Lisa Larges, Lisa Anderson.
We Were Marked with a Big 'A':Three Gay Holocaust Survivors Tell Their Story(44 minutes, 1991) German with English subtitles. Mediengruppe Schwabing Filmproduction, Germany. This gripping series of interviews with three gay survivors, one of whom submitted to forced castration as an 'alternative' to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp, was shown in the U.S. Holocaust Museum in Washington DC in December 1993.
West Coast Crones (1991, 28 minutes) The particular problems, challenges and experiences of elderly lesbians are explored in this all-too-short documentary. Proudly proclaiming themselves "Old Lesbians," an articulate group of nine white, mostly middle-class women meet to discuss issues as diverse as their initial sexual experiences, coming out, deciding whether or not to have children, self-image, relationships, and preparation for approaching old age. A revealing glimpse at some very interesting women, and a good companion piece to An Empty Bed, a film on elderly gay men. (Not yet in the MLP library. RCC)
Your Mom's A Lesbian, Here's Your Lunch, Have a Good Day at School(26 minutes, 1996) Produced by John Ankele and Ann Macksoude, New York NY. In 1976, the Rev Jane Adams Spahr, wife and mother of two small boys, separated from her husband because she was a lesbian. How did this affect her children, her relationship with her husband, her parents, her twin sister? What about the Presbyterian Church of which she is an ordained minister? And how has that decision twenty years ago affected Jane, herself? A look at family values from the inside out.