Queer Identities: Representations and New Media Gaps
The representation of LGBTQ+ individuals has been an important issue in cinema since its beginnings.
Most films still depict binary gender roles and heterosexual romantic relationships. This article explores what gaps remain in cinematic representations of queer identities, particularly for non-binary, asexual, and intersectional experiences, and how new media can address them.
Non-Binary Experiences
Most films portray transgender people as either male-to-female or female-to-male transitions, ignoring intersex and non-binary individuals. Non-binary characters are rarely presented as fully human; they often have to choose between one gender or another and endure violence, discrimination, or rejection. In "Moonlight," Barry Jenkins explores the life of Chiron, a Black gay man who struggles with his identity. The film won three Oscars but fails to address the challenges faced by non-binary persons due to its focus on a single character's story. Other examples include "Boy Meets Girl" and "Tangerine."
Asexual Experiences
Cinema rarely shows asexuality, which is the lack of sexual attraction or desire towards anyone. When it does, asexuals are often portrayed as lonely or abnormal, leading to stereotypes and stigma. Films like "Love, Simon" feature asexual characters but fail to explore their unique experiences, such as dating, intimacy, and self-discovery. New media should create more diverse narratives that show asexual characters having fulfilling lives without romantic or physical relationships.
Intersectionality
Few movies represent queer identities across racial, class, disability, age, and other differences. Intersectional experiences are overlooked in favor of a singular narrative that focuses on white, able-bodied cisgender men and women.
"Broken Hearts Club" features an all-White cast despite a diverse LGBTQ+ community. New media can offer complex representations of intersecting identities through multiple perspectives and nuanced stories.
New Media Approaches
One approach is creating new genres that embrace different perspectives, such as web series like "Her Story," which follows transgender and non-binary individuals navigating daily life and relationships. Another is integrating underrepresented voices into mainstream films, like in "Brokeback Mountain," where two cowboys fall in love despite society's disapproval.
New media must include authentic representation from creators who understand these experiences personally; this may mean increasing funding for marginalized filmmakers to tell their own stories.
Cinema has come a long way in representing the LGBTQ+ community, but there are still significant gaps in depicting non-binary, asexual, and intersectional identities. New media can address these by creating unique stories, exploring various perspectives, and supporting underrepresented voices. Let us work together to promote inclusive storytelling and celebrate diversity!
What gaps remain in cinematic representations of queer identities, particularly for non-binary, asexual, and intersectional experiences, and how can new media address these gaps?
In terms of queer representation in cinema, there are still many gaps that have yet to be filled, especially when it comes to non-binary, asexual, and intersectional experiences. One such gap is the lack of representation for non-binary individuals in movies, as they often fall under the binary categories of male and female, which does not accurately reflect their identity.