Erased Histories: Queer Cinema Before the Great Turn

Contrary to popular belief, LGBTQ+ themes, content, characters, and situations have existed in cinema since the very dawn of early silent film history. What's more, Queer characters and content were treated as safe, acceptable, and even enjoyable by contemporary audiences and filmmakers alike. In this presentation, Cinema Studies Professor Cordelia Siporin will trace the historical trajectory of Queer Cinema from its inception in the Queer-accepting silent and early sound eras through the Great Turn--revealing how America retroactively shifted from an egalitarian Queer-accepting space into the Queerphobic society it has since become, and how knowing this history can help us reclaim the truth of our lost cultural past.

In collaboration with the Glen Rock Pride Committee.

Registration is required.