Amazon.com

Drama ruled in a big way on the third season of Queer as Folk, as the gay men and women of Pittsburgh rode a roller coaster of emotional and personal upheavals that would make a regular soap-opera cast blanch. Budding comic book artist Justin (Randy Harrison) finally left longtime lover Brian for a chance at ecstasy--and not a bit of agony-–with a charming violin player. Emmett (Peter Paige) finally came face-to-face with his affection for friend Ted (Scott Lowell), only to have Ted's growing drug habit get in the way of their happiness. Lesbians Melanie (Michelle Clunie) and Lindsay (Thea Gill) decided to have another baby, whose father would be... Michael (Hal Sparks), whose nesting with hunky Ben (Robert Gant) is rudely interrupted by runaway Hunter (Harris Allan). And as for Brian (Gale Harold), the man everybody wants but can't ever have? Just when it seems he's gone to work for the enemy--a homophobic mayoral candidate-–it turns out he might be the savior the Pittsburgh gay community never knew it needed.

Snaps to the makers of QAF for trying to bring their characters into the grown-up world – Michael, Emmett, and Ted started their own businesses; Justin finally cut loose from Brian-–but too many melodramatic plot twists and turns impeded a lot of the character development this show worked hard at during its first two seasons. Still, most of the cast was topnotch, including Harrison, whose Justin finally came into his own, and the always dependable Harold, who made Brian a fascinating creature through all his steamy travails and over-the-top encounters. --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Reviews (52)

Another great season, great character development
Everyone has a strong opinion on this show. I for one thoroughly enjoyed season 3. My review, without spoilers:

Scott Lowell's performance as Ted addicted to crystal meth is outstanding. Peter Paige also does a spectacular job as Emmitt, Ted's boyfriend, trying to deal with the addition. This saga within the series is one of the best parts of season three.

That being said, I could have done without Hunter: was he added to the show simply to have a twink on hand now that Justin is maturing? Also, I would love to see just ONE episode where it isn't necessary for the cast to get their freak on at Babylon, the disco.

I cringe when I see the illicit, casual sex and casual drug use on the show. I will respect the writers' decision to include it, as it's part of gay life. But the writers could be more inclusive of the diversity of opinions in the community by adding a character that is opposed to casual sex and recreational drug use. They do exist!

Shame that it's so short!
Recently released on DVD, Queer As Folk's third season continues to be a powerful and moving series. Our beloved friends and characters have moved on in their lives, and this season is a turning point for many of them. I do not want to spoil the plot for those still waiting to see this, but be prepared to see a changed Brian, a fun-loving but tougher Justin, Emmett and Ted's turmoil and a new life for the lesbian duo. Of course, this show would be incomplete without Debbie, dinner-diva. There is also a new character on the scene, young Hunter, who brings about a much-needed improvement to Michael's worrying wallflower attitude.

The season spans over the duration of a political campaign for a new mayor of Pittsburg, and the lives of all characters are directly and indirectly affected by the ex-police chief and running candidate Stockwell. Interspersed with serious themes and events are charming scenes, nightclubs, sex, drugs, love, work, school and all the other things that form part of daily life. Of course, the sex is what stands out for a lot of people, but after the first two episodes, this becomes more like background music and the camera hones in on the characters.

Certainly, the sheer abundance and exposure of sex and drugs is what makes this show edge and "out there". The producers are careful, however, to show the unglamorous aspects as well as the glamorous ones and don't view the world through rose-tinted glasses. It's realistic, it's in-your-face and it's powerful.

It's really too bad that there isn't more of it. Season 1 and 2 had at least 20 episodes, this one has only 14 - so you're getting less for your money, although the quality remains high (and the music fantastic). The box set does come with lots of extras, both for the DVD and computer. You get to see some documentaries and other surprises.

Highly recommended, but a health warning: you WILL get hooked, so try to watch this over a weekend, rather than sitting up through a week night and facing the consequences of having to go to work the next day!

Finally, Ted is actually interesting
Definitely better than season 2. Ted becomes interesting, finally! And Kinney gets a heart. A surprising new role (or two) for Michael, Justin refuses to settle but then settles again...how long will that last, though? The characters are moving forward in life, and it's a good thing. The bar scene is still active, but no longer the center of it all. These people actually have lives.

Kill your television!
What's worse than bad television? Answer: bad gay television. After three and a-half seasons of QAF I still can't figure out why so many in our community have embraced this show. Is it because we feel we have nothing else on tv that gives us a voice? What about HBO's Angels in America and Six feet Under? And don't forget the first installment of Tales of the City. These shows prove that we can have quality programming if the people behind them have a creative, honest and caring voice for our community. Instead, Showtime serves us this. Every character on this show is not only a stereotype but a cliche. And how about hiring actors who can act? What QAF gives us are "line-readers" who can whine on cue. Debbie's potty mouth becomes unbearable after about ten seconds and Brian's one dimentional character leaves me scratching my head in disbelief. The actor who plays Ted is so bad that when he's on screen I can't hit the mute button fast enough. I enjoyed season one and hoped that what followed would only get better. It didn't. This is un-reality television at its worst. I don't know anyone as queer as these folks.

More Emmett and Melanie please...
Alright now we're at Season Three, enough has been said of how SHOWTIME had come this far to make this totally queer, bold, or whatever awesome gay drama for the America's television - and also the gossips intercontinentally - I strongly feel the story has slowly lost its grisp to constantly "thrill" the constantly demanding DVD audience (especially those who spent 4 times utterly higher than the people earning DOLLARS in the states).

It's as if we've come to know Brian Kinney (more than enough as the number of smack bottoms he took back to his bourgeois loft), his (...) lucky pal Michael Novortny who seems to have it all, his custody shared longtime friend Lindsay and her absolutely perfect lesband Melanie, and his oh-so-predictable one-and-off whatevership with so called brighter-than-sunshine but bored-than-britney Justin Taylor. Enough crystal drama for the newly coupled Ted and Emmett, and definitely a big enough mouth for enough fabulous mama Debbie. Season Three also tend to consolate the gay activists by creating a win-win result over a election campaign, and add one more new member to the Diner's family, a teenage street hustler named Hunter, who came around a little rather imaginative for the storyline. However, not enough has been explored on a few members of this family.

I personally feel Melanie and Emmett are actually two potentially very explorable characters among the gang that would give the directors a good run of scripts. Melanie's coming strong in-your-face dyke attitude should be treated with a little extra indepth focus and Emmett's flamboyant outshell may as well worth a closer look. Just ask yourself, if the entire characters in the show were your real life friends, how much do you know about Melanie and Emmett after watching the Season One, Two, and Three? Do you know where they come from? The answer is no, see. ... Read more

Amazon.com

They're still out and proud, and in their second season the boys (and girls) of Queer as Folk continued to break ground as the most gay-friendly show on television (sorry, Will and Grace). Some plot lines were a little over the top, others truly heartfelt, but they were never less than entertaining, even during their All My Children moments. Season two opened in the aftermath of the gay-bashing of Justin (Randy Harrison), the young artist who wondered if he'd ever be able to paint or draw again, and went on to face a variety of issues and plotlines as diverse as its characters. Some were timely (Michael negotiating a relationship with new HIV-positive boyfriend Ben), some romantic (lesbians Lindsay and Melanie tying the knot), some new to the show (Emmett embarks on a relationship with a--gasp!--older gentleman), and some, well, far-fetched (how many of you had to wrestle, like Ted did, with starting your own pornographic web site?).

While the writing tended to flail about a bit, thankfully coalescing by the season's end, the show continued to be anchored by stellar actors, especially Peter Paige's Emmett, who grew the most during the second season; Michelle Clunie's Melanie, the alternately wry and sweet lesbian who became the show's secret weapon; and, as always, Gale Harold's Brian, the lothario with a heart of tarnished gold. Frustrating, fascinating, exasperating one moment and charming the next, Brian perfectly summed up the guilty pleasures of Queer as Folk, where humanity peeks out every now and then from behind the curtain of fabulous comedy and drama. --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Reviews (77)

Worthwhile continuation of an essential TV drama
QUEER AS FOLK [Season Two] (2002): Following the violent assault which closed Season One, Brian (Gale Harold) takes Justin (Randy Harrison) into his home, where they develop a passionate - but open - relationship. Michael (Hal Sparks) falls in love with a hunky college professor (Robert Gant) who turns out to be HIV positive, leading to conflict with Michael's worried mom Debbie (Sharon Gless). Elsewhere, Melanie (Michelle Clunie) and Lindsay (Thea Gill) are troubled by a ghost from Mel's past, a vibrant free spirit named Leda (Nancy Anne Sakovich) who insinuates herself into their relationship in an unexpected way. Emmett (Peter Paige) falls in love with an elderly millionaire (Bruce Gray), and eternal wallflower Ted (Scott Lowell) finds success as an Internet porn baron! Then, sexy young violinist Ethan Gold (Fabrizio Filippo) enters the fray, turning Justin's head in a manner which has far-reaching consequences for all concerned...

Having exhausted plotlines from the original British TV series, the second season of Showtime's "Queer as Folk" strives to establish its own identity, and largely succeeds on its own terms. Despite the grim storyline surrounding Justin's recovery, the tone of the series is considerably lighter this time around, with an emphasis on character-based comedy and fruity one-liners, many of which appear to have strayed from a particularly filthy 'Carry On' movie! Comedy aside, however, the writers make room for a number of important social issues, including HIV and AIDS, barebacking, pornography, and the gay community's apparent indifference following the death of a young man who was killed by a stranger he picked up in a nightclub. The emphasis on drugs which characterized the opening season has been considerably downsized, and the simmering relationship between Michael and Brian no longer dominates proceedings, while Mel and Lindsay are brought out of the shadows to take their rightful place at the forefront of the QAF ensemble (the 'wedding' episode is a joy). Performances are uniformly excellent, though Gant's character (Ben) is basically consigned to the periphery. Former model Sakovich plays Leda with genuine relish (her brief scenes with Brian are a scream), and ultra-sexy Filippo turns up the heat as a gifted but lonely musician who throws Justin's world into disarray.

Overall, Season Two lacks the dramatic punch of its predecessor, and the lighter tone has led to accusations from some quarters that the show has descended into routine soap opera. Even if the criticisms were justified (and they're not), there's actually nothing wrong with 'soap opera', so long as it's done well, though Brian's stubborn refusal to acknowledge Justin's emotional needs results in a disappointing season finale, whose outcome is never in doubt. Inevitably, perhaps, it's the small moments which make the biggest impression: The profound, but unspoken, love between Brian and Lindsay whenever they're alone together; Justin listening to a CD recording of Ethan's music as he contemplates a life-changing betrayal; Michael breaking down in a hospital corridor as Ben falls prey to an opportunistic illness (Hal Sparks' distress in this scene is achingly realistic). Season two may not scale the same heights as its illustrious predecessor, but it's still as dramatic, funny and empowering as ever, an essential part of the American TV landscape at the beginning of the 21st century.

Showtime's region 1 DVD - which runs a total of 955m 10s - spreads all 20 episodes over five discs, with a sixth disc reserved for supplemental materials. The image is letterboxed at 1.78:1 (anamorphically enhanced), and picture quality is fine, though a little grainy in places. Dolby Surround is credited at the end of each episode, but the discs have been encoded in Dolby 5.1, which is only really noticeable during the nightclub sequences (love that HEAVY bass!). Closed captions are provided. The supplemental material is fun but superficial, with only minor contributions from the show's main cast. Brief snippets (less than a minute in most cases) have been included from what must have been longer interviews, though Gale Harold seems a little uncomfortable vocalizing his characters' motivations. By the way, viewers are advised that the previews of forthcoming episodes - listed as 'Next On' in the sub-menus of each instalment - contain some ill-advised spoilers (the preview for the season finale even gives away the ending!), so you may want to watch the previews AFTER you've seen the episodes in question...

All in all, a fair continuation of the lives, loves and adventures of these extraordinary characters, though slightly compromised by its lack of heavyweight dramatic fireworks. Brian remains the driving force behind the entire show, Mel and Lindsay are still the best lesbians in the world, Ben's sculpted chest is a wonder to behold, and Ethan is without doubt one of the sexiest guys to stroll down Liberty Avenue since QAF began! Don't miss it.

Season Two of the Compelling Show
"Queer As Folk" season two, which was aired 2001-2002, wonderfully continues where season one ended. This brilliant show, aired on Showtime, offers a broad range of subjects that many can relate to, not just GLBT. It explores HIV/AIDS, the aftermath of gay bashing, gay marriage, and many others. "Queer As Folk" has raised many eyebrows since its first episode aired in 2000. The amazing daringly provocative themes keeps audience watching closely to every episode and excited for the next episode. This is one of only few shows that explores issues that many unfortunately consider taboo. Before the beginning, only two other sitcoms have explored GLBT issues to this level of magnitude: "Ellen" and "Will And Grace". Taking this risk earns the cast and crew tremendous respect.

Every episode was written uniquely wonderful, expressing powerdrama and humor in the perfect scenes. The series of events never lose their interesting theme. The realisms expressed give audiences the added shock value. Such great episodes offer a highly unforgettable entertainment experience. It explores Justin's brave recovery from his gay bashing incident from first season's season finale, Michael and Ted discovering their dream job, a relationship revolution between Mel and Lindsay, Emmitt finding fame, Brian slightly maturing, yet still being Brian, and much more. The chain of events lead to a compelling season finale that will surprise every viewer.

The settings remain as spectacular as always. The nightclub Babylon continues to amaze audiences with its elaborate background, sexuality, and lighting. All other settings, including Babylon, widely express GLBT pride, expecially the diner. The decorations and the use of color wonderfully blend with the characters' personalities and interests. The creativity wonderfully separates the crew from other shows.

"Queer As Folk" stars Gale Howard, Hal Sparks, Scott Lowell, Peter Paige, Randy Harrison, Michelle Clunie, Thea Gill, Sharon Gless, and Robert Gant. Gant is wondefully introduced in the mid-season. Every actor offers a unique sense of theme for the plot and within their character. The wide variety of personalities and habits keep every detail interesting. The acting has clearly improved compared to the first season, especially Sparks, Paige, and Gless.

The bonus edition contains some interesting articles about the show's background. It includes the cast touring to various radio stations and gay pride parades, the construction and the secrets of Babylon, interviews with the cast, a short episode of "Queer Duck" (also on Showtime), a sneak peak of season three, and more. They show how "Queer As Folk" has come together as well as it did. The actors' expressed influences make audiences watch the show in a better way.

"Queer As Folk" season two is sure to keep its audiences entertained for a long time. It remains one of the greatest GLBT pride shows on television. Those interesting in this edition must watch season one first. Otherwise, the events will be hard to fully understand.

Sex, Drugs, Clubs, and...Sex
Is this really what gay life is all about? I think...once and a while Queer as Folk tends to focus a bit too much on the sexual side of gay life.
However...Season 2 is addictive! I plowed through all the DVDs included in this set in less than a week...I couldn't stop watching to see what would happen next!
The characters in Queer as Folk developed quickly - and do have a lot of substance...with the exception of Brian, who just wants to have non-stop fun, if you get my drift...(SEX SEX SEX)
I'm eager to get Season 3 to see what happens next.
This set is definately geared towards the gay community and girls who like gay boys! ; )

Happy Day Happy Day
This is one of my most favorite shows to watch. I mean this season packs some of the most heart pounding drama that mankind could handle. I am looking forward to the other seasons.

Buy this and share it to friends.

Fun television
The 20 episodes contained on this six-disc dvd collection have made me realize that Queer as Folk is the most fun I've had watching a television program. It shows dramatic depth, a genuine comic flair, and a cinematic scope atypical to the small screen. The characters are appropriately nuanced, giving their stories an unpredictability and suspense that is simply addictive. The hedonistic main character, Brian shows more vulnerability without losing the inherent self-absorption that makes him so dangerous, and consequently, so watchable As put by Uncle Vic, he's "James Dean and Ayn Rand's lovechild." Brian reveals his insecurities, especially relative to his homophobic, ghastly family. He also reveals his true compassion for his friends, particularly that of "Mikey" (Hal Sparks). And his love and concern for his teenage lover, Justin after the ferocious gay bashing he endured all give the show its engrossing and strangely heartfelt quality. ... Read more

Reviews (291)

'The Rocky Horror Show' Movie
There is one reason why everyone should see "The Rocky Horror Picture Show": it is the best cult film ever made. There are also three reasons why everyone should want to watch it: 1) It is one of the only 'R' rated musicals in existence. 2) It has strong science-fiction overtones. 3) It is very funny. The movie starts Barry Bostwick and Susan Sarandon (before they were stars) as the recently engaged Brad and Janet. However, they are upstaged in nearly every scene by Tim Curry who plays Frank N. Furter, the mad doctor. The cast delightfully performs many memorable songs including "Over at the Frankenstein Place" and, of course, the "Time Warp". To fully enjoy RHPS, one must not be closed minded or the picture could prove to be quite offensive. Don't think it's gratuitously violent- it isn't. Merely, the situations the characters find themselves in could shock or appall overly sensitive viewers. If you think you won't enjoy RHPS, going to a midnight screening might be your best bet. The live audience participation will guarantee you a good time, despite your opinion of the actual film. So overall, RHPS is quite a good adaptation of Richard O'Brien's original concept, which always honors its roots on the stage.

DVD = Perfect format to truly experience "Rocky" at home
I loved going to "Rocky Horror" when I was in college, but watching on home video just wasn't the same. I'm probably committing heresy but there's a reason why this sci-fi, horror, B-movie satire, rock musical didn't really make it big until theaters started showing it as a midnight movie and fans started attending in costume and talking back to the screen. The 25th anniversary DVD, with several audience participation options, really is the next best thing to being there.

For the uninitiated, "Rocky Horror" tells the story of two clean-cut American youths, uptight Brad Majors (Barry Bostwick of "Spin City") and Janet Weiss (Susan Sarandon of "Dead Man Walking") whose car breaks down on a dark, deserted road in the middle of a storm--the classic beginning to many horror movies--and who seek help at a nearby castle. Castles, as Rocky fans know, don't have phones! What this castle has instead is a cross-dressing mad scientist Frank-N-Furter Tim Curry, in perhaps his finest performance), two very creepy servants, Riff-Raff (Richard O'Brien, who wrote the musical) and Magenta (Patricia Quinn), and various other hangers-on, including lovers Columbia (Little Nell) and biker Eddie (Meat Loaf). Brad and Janet walk in on a party celebrating the creation of Frank-N-Furter's muscle-bound boy-toy "Rocky." Bed-hopping chaos soon ensues, until the servants reveal their true identities and take control.

Punctuating this wacky plot are some of the wildest rock-musical songs ever written. In addition to the classic "Time Warp," there's O'Brien's salute to cult-classic B-movies, "Science Fiction Double Feature," Meat Loaf's "Hot Patootie," and Sarandon ode to sexual self-discovery, "Toucha Toucha Touch Me!"

So much for the "Rocky virgin" portion of the review... What makes the DVD so exceptional is the chance to experience "Rocky Horror" at home nearly like you would in the theater. The DVD has the option of turning on the audience screen comments as well as another option for viewing members of the Rocky Horror Fan Club performing select scenes before returning to the main movie. For those less familiar with audience participation, the DVD can prompt when to throw toast, toilet paper, rice, etc., light a match, put your newspaper on your head, etc.

The second disc contains fascinating interviews with cast members, where fans can find out about their reaction to starring in this cult classic. Meat Loaf's description of not realizing what "Rocky Horror" was going to be about and running out of the theater when Tim Curry entered wearing fishnet stockings, spiked heels, a merry widow, and a leather jacket and singing "Sweet Transvestite" is hysterical. Patricia Quinn talks about how her fondness for the opening song, "Science Fiction Double Feature" made her want to take the role even though she hadn't read the rest of the script. What? Don't remember Quinn singing that number? In the stage versions she did, but the song got reassigned in the film version--and Quinn makes her feelings about that QUITE clear. Sarandon makes the interesting observation that "Rocky Horror" probably kept a lot of art house theaters in business over the years, since they could count on good revenue from the midnight movie, even if the latest regular-hours offering flopped. In Bostwick's interview, however, the actor sounds a bit like William Shatner giving his anti-Trekkie diatribe on "Saturday Night Live."

The only disappointments on the DVD are that the outtakes really aren't that interesting and actor bios aren't provided. I would have liked to see what else the "minor" cast members did after Rocky, but that information is limited to a few lines in the companion booklet. Also, some of the audience-participation comments are nearly impossible to understand because fans are talking over each other. But then that's part of the modern-day theater experience. Even Sarandon noted in her interview that talking back to the screen has gone from the more unison catechism approach to a loud free-for-all.

What seemed so risqué and shocking a few decades ago seems much more innocent today, but it was great when it all began and it's still great! If you've never ventured into the theater to experience "Rocky Horror," this is the best way to experience it at home.

Mesmerizing film.
This is a very outrageous movie. The rock is the background to tell us a horror movie but also spiced with sex , ransvestism and above all a splendid tribute to the movies specially King Kong .
One couple strands in an old house full of weirdos . This movie (here between you and me)could have inspired for Tim Burton in Beetle juice .
In this decade there were great visuals films too . Sherman built a magnificent story absolutely free , intelligent and sarcastic, irreverent and bitter . You might state that Fellini's influence (dressed of english manners and clothes) is present all along the film .
Inmediatly after its release this one acquired the status of cult movie.

The original is still the best!
Don't bother with the play, or the music from the play. The original is still the best. Nobody can fill the shoes of Sarandon, Curry, etc. They originated the roles and have been associated with them for far too long for anyone else to come in try to change them so many years later and attempt to redo them. Stay with the best.

Those Gold Shorts!
Ahhhhh...Rocky had such a lovely outline showing in his gold lame shorts. ... Read more

Amazon.com

They're here, they're queer, and they make Sex and the City look like a demure tea party. Showtime's quintessentially American Queer As Folk--based on the British miniseries--pours on copious amounts of hot and steamy sex. This slick (and slickly entertaining) series shares the same basic concept as its British counterpart--centering on a group of gay friends living in a primarily industrial city--but after that, all bets are off. Whereas the British version focused on the gritty, realistic drama of its characters, the American QAF is a glossy, fun soap opera that occasionally tackles big issues but never lets you forget that life at times can be a party, and you shouldn't be one of those poor suckers starving to death. A good part of the show's charm lies in its cast--boy-next-door Michael (Hal Sparks), ruthlessly seductive rake Brian (Gale Harold), out-and-proud Emmett (Peter Paige), wallflower Ted (Scott Lowell), and nubile teen Justin (Randy Harrison)--who grew from standard gay prototypes to intriguing characters by the first season's end. And while some subplots didn't work (such as Emmett's farfetched foray into gay-conversion therapy), others were quietly affecting, including Brian's coping with his father's death. Some may object to the show's relentless fixation on sex (and gay men--there are just two lesbian characters), but this is a series that in its own polished way is both engrossingly fun and truly groundbreaking. It's liberating to watch an American TV series in which the straight world is only peripheral. Let's hear it for the boys! --Mark Englehart ... Read more

Reviews (211)

QAF Complete First Season Is Finally Here! The Wait Is Over
This is actually the best series ever put on the air. Showtime is trully live up to their title and now the most anticipated DVD release ever is finally here. Before the Second Season start the first season will be release to DVD and Video. This is the best collections of one of the great shows on cable TV. Buy QAF on DVD and start your collections and collect all Seasons of QAF on DVD. It's increadible!!!!10 stars!!

QUEER AS FOLK is one of the most amazing TV shows!
Queer As Folk is one of the most amazing TV Shows ever and is a landmark as the show for the new millennium. The Queer As Folk DVD Box Set has all 22 episodes of the first season of the most controversial and bravest series in the history of television. The total running time of all 6 DVD's is approx: 1,205 minutes which includes Bonus features such as: behind the scenes outtakes, deleted scenes, special edition episodes, a Photo Gallery, DVD rom extras, A 6 minute Season 2 Sneek Peek, and much more. Queer As Folk shows the life of a group of gay guys and a lesbian couple living in Pittsburgh. Now I had been hearing so much about this amazing Showtime series for sometime, yet I had never seen a single episode as I did not have Showtime, but then in July of 2001 I heard this show was coming to DVD in its entire first season and I knew I was in for a real treat. I waited up until the very day of Queer As Folks release date on January 8, 2002 and I purchased this DVD collection not knowing what to expect. I knew it was a gamble to buy an expensive DVD collection of something I had never seen before, but I went with my heart and I bought it. I can honestly say this was truly one of the BEST DVD investments I have ever made. When I got home I knew it was gonna be a while before i watched all 22 episodes and as i got through the first 2 pilot episodes I was hooked and so excited to see the next episode, just as I am when I watch The Young And The Restless. It took me 3 days to watch all of the episodes and I am amazed at how honest this show is on dealing with gay life. Queer As Folk makes no apologies and thats what is so great about this series. From the graphic fornification scenes to the drama of dealing with the prejudice that still haunts America, this show is so brave and I give Showtime a big thumbs up for having the gaul to take on such a big risk as Queer As Folk. This show is as close as it gets to real life. This is not a show just for gay people, but for ALL people. It deals with human emotion and thats something we can all relate to whether we be straight, gay, bisexual, black, white, brown or in between. I have since signed up for Showtime just for this show. I encourage anyone who has a open mind and a open heart to BUY this amazing DVD collection as it will inspire you and if nothing else open your mind to a lifestyle not as uncommon as you may think. Watch more than one episode before you judge this amazing series.

Queer As Folk- What's the Big Deal?
That's exactly the point of this groundbreaking achievement in television- to convey the idea that being queer is no big deal! It makes homosexual sex part of mainstream viewing and serves to break down barriers that face homosexuals in society. As the series opens, the sex is 'in your face,' but viewers are quick to realize that sex is secondary here; it is merely an aspect of the lives of these characters, which are extremely well-written, developed, and acted. Sexy Gale Harold plays Brian Kinney, the object of everyone's affection and desire. Harold's talent and sex appeal have solidified the show's success. Hal Sparks plays Michael, the cute, "boy next door" type who has an overly-supportive mother. The role of Justin, the 17 year old man in a boy's body, is played by Randy Harris. Scott Lowell (Ted) and the beautiful Peter Paige, who plays Emmett, the "Queen" of the group, rounds out the cast of friends. Thea Gill and Michelle Clunie also join the cast as a lesbian couple finding their way through commitment and parenthood. The relationships created in this series are a welcomed dose of reality and emotion. Audiences of all types can find themselves enjoying the drama and comedy that combine as a perfect recipe for brilliant television. My only hope is that the success of this series pushes writers, directors, and actors to demand more of this type of material to work with. And homophobes BEWARE! Gale Harold can put even the straightest men in touch with their gay side.

Thanks Showtime, Very Helpful
Ok, Apart from being a fantastic programme. Well Written, Cast and hosting many great story lines. The show helped me as a gay guy. When i was younger QAF was released on tv in the uk. And at that time i was going through many difficulties with regards to my sexuallity. And the show helped me allot. It has loads of info that is very helpful to someone such as myself. So many things including sex, dating, hiv/aids and so much more.

The American version is allot hotter than the uk version, but in terms of scripts its a million times better. I have seasons 1 & 2 and have just ordered 3. And when 4 is released that will be ordered too.

This is more than just a series, its there for more than entertainment, it serves as a guide book for gay men and gals whether young or old.

Bravo the creators, your work is masterful!

There can be only one
OK, with 209 reviews as of today's date, I'll be brief. The show is excellent but no season will ever come close to the intensity, heat and uniqueness of season 1. IF YOU ARE GOING TO *OWN* ANY OF THE SEASONS, THIS IS THE ONE TO OWN. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

I Wrote My FirstReview On Amazon.com Exactly Two Years Ago
When "Queer As Folk" debuted in The UK in 1999, it immediately spawned critical acclaim.This gave many members of the GLBT community and their allies something to relate.It has made history by being one of the first GLBT-based sitcoms with a graphic theme to grow this successfully.This influenced producers from The US to begin their own version of this groundbreaking show.This version debuted in 2000 on Showtime.It followed with similar response as in The UK.Before its US debuted, only two other television sitcoms expressed GLBT-based issues as their main theme: "Ellen" and "Will And Grace".Such brave work earns the cast and crew tremendous respect for doing what few other writers and producers have feared most.It has since won and been nominated for several honorable awards, including four consecutive GLAAD (Gay, Lesbians, and Allies Against Defamanation) Awards for Outstanding Television Drama.

Such issues expressed include hate crimes, HIV/ AIDS, same-sex marriage, same-sex parenting, teen living, self-esteem, drug abuse, and more.Since its debut, the storylines have always remained top of the line.Through its hardcore dramatic scenes to its steamy sex scenes, it never fails to attract audiences' interest.The fearless imagery separates "Queer As Folk" from all other shows.They tell their stories much closer to realism than most other shows have.Everything is as honest to actual GLBT living as it should be.Its powerful impact will never be forgotten.The research read previous to writing proves revalent in every episode.

Besides the harsh realites expressed shows many spectaculars.The sexual innuendo remains erotic, keeping audiences' wide open in amazement.This is the first sitcom that has featured graphic sex and maintain a successful run.The unforgettable Babylon remains an exciting fantasy.This shows what many GLBT people have dreamed for a gay club/ bar.Many of their grand and high-tech episodes successfully express their theme, making this sitcom not entirely depressing.Its signature street remains enlightening, heightening the exciting fantasy theme.Best, the variety of character personalities fit wonderfully to make this show much more enjoyable: Brian's tell-it-like-it-is moto, Michael's hint of child-like humor, Emmitt's flamboyance, Ted's wallflower persona, Debbie's eccentricness, and others.

Every season has its own reasons for its excitement and its hardhitting themes.All have their own adorations that set them apart from the other seasons.Every season shows great evolution compared to its debut.Through the occassional changes made within the storyline and the characters, the quality never fades.Yet, some characteristics never change, which is good.

Season one introduces audiences to the lives of Brian, Michael, Emmitt, Ted, Justin, Lindsay, Mel, and Debbie.They are a group of friends that love each other unconditionally.New viewers will witness how Brian and Justin met, the birth of Lindsay and Mel's son Gus (Brian and Lindsay are the biological parents), Justin still in high school and beginning to come out, Ted still labeled a loser, and of course Brian being Brian.Though the acting has a few occassional weak scenes, their unique personas make up for it beautifully.This season starts the sitcom with a bang.These episodes alone make television history to air many firsts.Once audiences begin watching this season, they will be addicted for life!

Season two begins by answering questions asked in season one's cliffhanger.This gives full throttle to this season's powerful edge.One of them originates from the season one's finale, one of the most emotional episodes in the entire series.Afterward, new audiences will witness a revolution in the comic book store that pertains to Michael, the introduction of Ben, a shocking weakness as an ally in Debbie, Lindsay and Mel marrying, and of course Brian still being Brian.Many characteristics have improved this season compared to previous, namely a better development in the characters and the performances from certain actors.

Season three begins by shaping revolutions in certain characters and storylines.This readies audiences for other changes awaiting throughout.Despite, the sitcom remains exciting.New viewers will witness Ted beginning his crystal meth abuse, Mel beginning her pregnancy with Michael's baby, the introduction of teen prostitute Hunter, the town in threat of a homophobic police officer running for mayor, and a heroistic act from the least expected.Some of the most surprising events that occur through the season make the episodes more exciting and powerful.When audiences think that this would cause the graphic details to fade, another surprise awaits.

Season four shows more of a dramatic feel rather than a graphic hardhitting theme.This shows great improvement in the writing and the editing.The scenes are much less repetative, allowing more new ideas.However, powerful edge never fades.New viewers will witness Ted's recovery stage, Justin briefly joining The Pink Posse (a violent group that watches the streets for homophobic acts), Brian surprisingly maturing due to a life-altering discovery, and a revolution in Mel and Lindsay's relationship.Though less major storylines linger this season, the season remains interesting.

Such overall show quality makes "Queer As Folk - Seasons 1-4 Pack" an essential for fans and those looking for material to relate.This is sure to please many audiences gay or straight.Fans should watch for season five to be released next spring.

Cast: Gale Howard (Brian), Hal Sparks (Michael), Randy Harrison (Justin), Peter Paige (Emmitt), Scott Lowell (Ted), Robert Gant (Ben), Thea Gill (Lindsay), Michelle Clunie (Mel), and Sharon Gless (Debbie) ... Read more

Amazon.com

Grande Ecole merges the delirious ogling of naked flesh withhighfalutin' cultural theory from abstruse thinkers like MichelFoucoult--a whiplash-inducing combination that could only come from theFrench. Paul (Gergori Baquet), a middle-class student, arrives at a snootyeconomics school and finds himself lusting after his new roommate, theupper-class Louis-Arnault (Jocelyn Quivrin)--even though Paul already hasa hot-and-heavy relationship with his luscious girlfriend Agnes (AliceTaglioni). Paul's sexual confusion leads him into an affair with ahandsome Arab groundskeeper named Mecir (Salim Kechiouche), who fallshelplessly in love with Paul. Grande Ecole awkwardly combines raceand class consciousness, the defense of a death-row inmate in Texas, andan extensive shower scene with the school's water polo team--but whatfinally gives it heart is Mecir, whose love for Paul seems doomed totragedy. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Description

Pedro (Jos Luis Garca-Prez) is an attractive and homosexual dentist who lives a sexually active lifestyle. He offers to take care of his nine-year-old nephew Bernardo (David Castillo) for two weeks while the child's mother, Pedro's older sister Violeta (Elvira Lindo), goes off to India with her latest "hippie" boyfriend. Pedro modifies his sexual behavior but quickly finds out that Bernardo is extremely comfortable and mature in his attitude towards life. When Violeta suddenly becomes detained in India, Pedro finds himself the boy's caretaker and must face the challenges of raising a child. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

BEAR CUB is Good, but US did produce the first BEAR movi
BEAR CUB is a really wonderful film, but to respond to Jeffrey of Ill., there was a "bear" film made in 2003 called "A BEAR'S STORY". It is a short. It has been playing in film festivals all around the world for the past 2 years, but has not been released on DVD as of yet. It is a contempory coming-of-fur story about a man who discovers the bear community after not fitting into the "gay lifestyle" that is so prevalent. I truly hope you get to see it in some film fest someday or hopefully catch it on DVD when it finally is released. It has won a few festival awards. It will play next in August 2005 at the first Vermont Bear Film Festival and then this fall in Norway. You can check out the web site for news on showings www.abearsstory.com. Until then buy BEAR CUB and enjoy. Why do I know so much about "A BEAR'S STORY"? I am one of the leads. Hope you like it.

One From The Heart
It usually takes a foreign film to successfully take on human issues that Americans avoid."Bear Cub" is full of real characters with real emotions.These include the lead (Pedro), a determinedly single gay dentist, his liberal `hippie' sister, her educated well-adjusted son, a meddling grandmother and a cast of friends that could be the `gang' over for a football game.Pedro takes care of his nephew while his sister takes an unexpectedly delayed vacation.Although he tries to change his lifestyle for the child, he realizes there is no need.His friends take to the child as anyone's uncle would and all seems great.Of course, real life needs to interrupt this simple event and soon misunderstood feelings and good intentions make for a heartbreaking mix.Suffice it to say that "Bear Cub" is full of mild twists and surprises enough to give it a world-class appearance.Most Americans will be surprised at the openness of the playful affection between the men, but that soon fades as the more important issues start unraveling.With an even balance of comedy, drama and love, "Bear Cub" rises above most of its genre.This is one of those rare movies that show us a wonderfully human slice of life that is all around, yet private enough to portray it in an honest and respectful manner.

The differences of the two versions explained...
I recently emailed the company that's releasing the DVD and asked them what the differences between the R-rated and Unrated version were. This is strait from them... "The difference is that there are two sex scenes removed from the U.S. theatrical version for the MPAA. We included the Unrated version to satisfy the director's original vision." Also, there will be NO English dubbed audio track. Only Spanish audio and English subtitles. I hope this answers the questions of people that are as curious about this kind of stuff as I am. :^) Take care!!

Hooray for the bears of Spain!
If the bear movement started in the United States, then how did Spain beat us at making a bear film? Moreover, it was quality and worked on sooooo many levels. If I ever met the cast and crew, I would bow to the ground and kiss their feet
Technically, this wasn't a movie about bears. In this movie, however and fortunately, bears are at the center. There is no bearphobia, unlike gay films such as "Parting Glances" and "Mishima: A Life in Four Acts."I must admit though that I was surprised that a man with a huge appendicitis scar was chosen as the lead. That just shows how European casting associates aren't afraid to pick actors that their American counterparts wouldn't touch.
Like so many recent gay productions, this is about how gays interact with straights, especially their straight relatives. Where "Ellen", "Kiss Me Guido", and John Goodman's bad sitcom failed, this movie succeeds. Unlike "The Disappearance of Garcia Lorca" and the universally-panned "The Next Best Thing," this film didn't cast gays to the side in order to push the heterosexual main narrative along either. The whole line about "being gay, but not just being gay" resonated here.
I guess in Spain that cliche about animals and child actors doesn't apply. The boy in this film was beating the hell out of this role. I hope he is nominated for Spain's Oscar or Cesar equivalent. Big props to him. Maybe he'll be the next Garcia Bernal, even though GB just stepped on the scene.
I'm a member of the "happy endings for homosexuals" club. It just broke my heart seeing the main character dump the bear pilot that wanted to be with him. I guess I'm so used to American films where the main character always has a devoted partner by the end of the film. Man, this dude could have had a constant companion to care for him as he faced you can guess what. Instead, he makes poor choices which will cause his downfall and may hurt others.
One character was kinda lispy, but otherwise, the Spanish here didn't differ much to New World Spanish, at least to my gringo ears. I didn't hear anyone say "vosotros." There are scenes where the main character and his dumpee, a pilot in Paris, speak French but the audience is never told that code-switching is going on. Coco Fusco and other Latin Americans have said that learning French is a sign of being cultured. Spain is multiracial just like the US, Britain, or France. I wish there could have been a bear of color in this film.

I hope we get the uncensored version
I saw this movie in Spain, including the explicit sexscene in the beginning.I hope that is what the unrated version is.I heard about several (if not all) screenings in the US with the first (sex) scene cut from the movie.We're adults here thank you, just don't censor art and distort the director's vision. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you've got a taste for big hair, broad Texas accents, and gay rights,this mixture of white-trash comedy and coming-out melodrama is for you.Sordid Lives starts out as chicken-fried farce, as a funeral isprepared for a woman who died when she tripped over her adulterous lover'swooden legs; about midway the emphasis shifts to a drag queen unfairlyheld in a mental institution and the dead woman's grandson, an actor inLos Angeles who hasn't come out to his mother. The tone shifts wildly, andthe humor depends on your fondness for the white-trash genre--if you likeit, this will tickle your ribs; if you don't, it'll fall flat as thepanhandle landscape. But it must be said that the cast (including BonnieBedelia, Beau Bridges, Delta Burke, and Olivia Newton-John) dives rightin, no matter how over-the-top their characters get. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (95)

This movie is a reflection of it's characters - Hysterical!!
It was easy to invision Delta Burke as the queen of a trailer court type neighborhood, but when you throw in Olivia Newton-John as a lesbian folk singer and Beau Bridges as a pathetic loser you begin to see the picture of a highly dysfunctional group of friends and relatives intertwined in a tale, more about righting the wrongs of a dysfunctional history and less about the real story: What are we going to bury mama in now that she is dead. Apparently she tripped over Beau Bridges prosthetic leg on the way to the bathroom in a cheap motel where they were doing the nasty!! Sordid Lives is a befitting title to a movie that will have you somewhere between horrified and in tears from laughter. Sounds like the way things were in many families I know!

Sordid Lives
This movie is a total crack up and deals with denial, [same sex relationships], infidelity, and the inner workings of a Texas family dealing with the death of the matriarch of the family. The movie revolves around the death of the matriarch who has just died in a motel room after having an affair with the husband (Beau Bridges,) of Delta Burke. She looks great by the way! The matriarch dies after tripping on Beau Bridges two wooden legs on the way to the bathroom, in a seedy motel after having committed adultery. Delta Burke's best friend is the daughter of the deceased and is worried about how this will affect their friendship. Beau Bridges plays a real jerk in this film, but you can't help but love to hate him. My favorite character is Brother Boy, played by Leslie Jordan. Brother Boy is also the son of the deceased. He is a [same sex relationship] transvestite who has been in a mental institution for 23 years after being beat up by his straight best friend. Brother Boy is my favorite character in this film. He gets through his life in the nut house by dressing up as Tammy Wynette and carrying on her legacy. He performs every day in the rec room of the mental institution for the other patients. Too funny, and he is great. Brother Boy's therapist is trying to dehomsexualize him in order to get a book deal on go on [a TV show]. This is a must see for anyone with a dysfunctional family (which most of us have.) I got a copy of the pre-released DVD and watch it almost everyday to get my Brother Boy fix. I highly recommend this movie to all. It is side splitting funny.

Sordid Pleasure!!!!!!!!!!!!
Welcome to the wonderful world of White Trash---And boy are you in for a ride!!!!! When their mother (and sister) die in a motel after committing adultery (she tripped over her married lover's wooden legs!) a family comes together for the funeral of the family matriarch. There is Sissy (played by Beth Grant, who made the movie for me, she was HILARIOUS!), sister of the deceased, who unfortunately tried to quit smoking three days before the untimely death of her older sister. Her neighbor is Noleta (Delta Burke), who is the distraught wife of the man (Beau Bridges), who's wooden legs accidently became murder weapons. There is Brother Boy (Leslie Jordon), who for 23 years, has been in a "looney bin" for dressing in drag as his favorite country artists---Tammy Wynette being his ultimate----and in therapy to clear up his homosexuality. There are more wonderful characters (Bonnie Bedelia, Olivia Newton John play a couple of them)but not enough time to discuss them all. Suffice it to say, this comedy is well worth your time. And, while giving you plenty of laughs, the movie also has a message that can help all of us----accepting people as they are. Reward yourself with laughter----watch this movie!!!!!!!!!!!

Disappointing, Contrived
Perhaps it was sooooo built up as this amazing gut buster, that I viewed it with too high expectations. I was actually bored. I thought the writing was contrived and the acting so over the top that it was hard to find a shred of believability. Also - SHRILL goes a long way. I'm from Texas - I grew up with hicks and these characters were sub-standard imitations. I always miss that magical mix of the absurd with characters that you empathize with in Del Shores writing. One positive note, the slapstick element during the coffin scene helped pick things up a bit.

Destined to be a cult classic of 'white trash' humor
This DVD came highly recommended by several friends. I was sure not disappointed. I've watched it a half-dozen times now and loved it every time.

The actors are fabulous, especially Leslie Jordan as 'Brother Boy' Earl. Far from playing the role in typical drag queen camp, Jordan brings depth and even poignancy to his (hilarious) character, who copes with his hellish looney bin existence by living out vicariously the life of Tammy Wynette. Beth Grant is also sensational in her protracted nicotine fit.

I've seen enough of mega-studio Hollywood not to mind the fresh, offbeat, low-budget feel of this film. The big-name talent certainly delivers, including, as musical backdrop, Olivia Newton-John's awesome guitar numbers (impressively sung live on camera--wow what a talent, she's still got it).

Apart from uproarious laughs, the film offers a meaningful theme of the dysfunctionality that non-acceptance from DENIAL can inject into family relationships. Be sure to add 'Sordid Lives' to your DVD collection, because it's becoming a cult classic of white trash humor--and memorable lines from the film are starting to go around. I'd tell you more about this movie, but you'll have to, in the words of Brother Boy...."excuse me...I got a show to do!" ... Read more

Amazon.com

Tony Kushner's prize-winning play Angels in America became thedefining theatrical event of the 1990s, an astonishing mix of philosophy,politics, and vibrant gay soap opera that summed up the Reagan era for anentire generation of theater-goers. Post-9/11 wouldseem to be too late for a film version--philosophy and politics don'talways age well--but this 2003 HBO adaptation, ably directed by Mike Nichols(The Graduate), provides a time capsule of the '80s and reveals thedeep emotional subcurrents that will give the play lasting power.

The story centers around Prior Walter(Justin Kirk) and Louis Ironson (Ben Shenkman), a gay couple that fallsapart when Prior grows ill as a result of AIDS. But cancer is not the onlything invading Prior's life: He begins to have religious visions of anangel (Emma Thompson, Sense and Sensibility) announcing that he isa prophet. Louis, who doesn't cope well with disease and suggestions ofmortality, leaves and starts a relationship with Joe Pitt (PatrickWilson), a closeted Mormon who works for Roy Cohn (Al Pacino, Dog DayAfternoon)--the real-life right-wing lawyer, notorious for hisruthless behind-the-scenes machinations. Add in Joe's depressed andhallucinating wife Harper (Mary Louise Parker, Fried GreenTomatoes), his determined but open-minded mother Hannah (Meryl Streep,Adaptation), a fierce drag queen/nurse named Belize (JeffreyWright, Basquiat, reprising his celebrated performance from theBroadway production), and you've still only begun to discover the wealthof characters and storylines in Kushner's ambitious work.

Thepowerhouse cast (also featuring James Cromwell, Michael Gambon, and SimonCallow) is uniformly superb. The script has its weaknesses--some of thefantastic elements, including Prior's journey to Heaven towards the end,fall flat--but even what doesn't work is bristling with ideas and aferocious desire to capture human existence in this time and place.--Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (20)

A profound human dimension amid the politics and pain
A jaw-dropping film adaptation of Tony Kushner's epic, 5-hour play, which was a defining artistic statement documenting the political and social upheaval that AIDS-HIV disease brought to America's gay community and to the wider America around it. Mixing agitprop and camp with magical realism and utter, heart-rending, pathos, Kushner and director Mike Nichols bring the story to the screen in a big, big way, with all-around amazing performances by a perfectly cast ensemble. Al Pacino gets to chew up yards of scenery in his portrayal of the sleazy, venal, far-rightwing attorney Roy Cohn (who acted as Joe McCarthy's point man in the infamous 1950s prosecution of "atom spies" Julius and Ethel Rosenberg) and for once, all of Pacino's high-decibel yelling pays off with some real dramatic ooompf.

There are a lot of things that you could comment on in this play -- the exploration of Jewish-American assimilation, the powerful reaffirmation of a supposedly marginalized leftist perspective, etc. -- but the most profound insight Kushner has to offer is about who the real redeeming angels will have to be in our nation's coming cultural reconciliation. The humanity that he is able to impart into the character of the middle-American Mormon, Mother Pitt (played faultlessly by Meryl Streep), is a marvel of modern political drama: and it rings undeniably true. Pushing past our narrowly defined social and political "roles," and into our shared humanity, is the only road open to folks who want to see America's moral and ethical core liberated from the ideological intrusions of the religious far-right, and the resulting frustrated anger of the disenfranchised middle-liberal-left. In a strictly us-vs-them world view, Mother Pitt would be derided by those on the we're-here-we're-queer Left... but as many people have learned, particularly amid the devastating upheavals of the HIV crisis, our real emotional lives are (ideally) not ruled by dogma. Mother Pitt isn't just a caring parent, she's also a kind, pragmatic person, and for her, the most pragmatic choice when confronted with an epidemic, is to simply offer sympathy and solace. What could be more natural? Let's hope her example prevails.

The CITIZEN KANE of the Modern Era
My expectations were high when I learned that HBO was going to spend over $60 million on an adaptation of Tony Kushner's extraordinary 6-hour epic play, but I could nt have imagined that the resulting film would move to the top of my list of best films ever made in the United States - but that is precisely what Angels in America has done.

Streep and Pacino deliver the finest performances of their careers here (Streep in 4 roles!). Emma Thompson is radiant. And the performances of Jeffrey Wright, Mary-Louise Parker, Justin Kirk and Ben Shenkman positively shine.

And the WRITING and DIRECTION! As close to Shakespearean as any American work I have ever read. And scenes that captivate in their composition and lighting, in their structure and their content. And a magical blending of profundity, humor, pathos, tragedy, and ultimately, the triumph of the human spirit over desperation and resignation. A musical score to match the high levels of word and vision.

In short, this film is nothing short of miraculous. All who worked on this masterpiece should be proud of their achievement. Angels in America stands as testimony to what the human mind can accomplish at its finest and most creative.

Simply the best movie I've seen in years....
HBO should've released this movie in movie theaters. I saw it at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco and it was a fantastic experience. Seeing it on TV is great, but.... Oh well, just enjoy! The acting, story, and filmography are amazing.

awesome
I started to watch the series using the on demand feature of our cable company and then it went away before I got to watch the whole thing. I can't wait to get the dvd so I can finish watching it and have it to watch again and again. Having been around when this was all going down makes this series really hit home. The acting is superb as are the special effects.

beyond wonderful
If they had released this movie in the theaters, there would not have been enough Academy awards to give to the writer, the director, and the wonderful cast. Who should get Best Actor? Al Pacino as the loathesome Roy Cohn or Justin Kirk as the dying Prior Walter? Who should get Best Actress? Meryl Streep as the practical, compassionate Mormon housewife, or Emma Thompson as the beautiful, terrifying angel? This series had me riveted to the TV set. I could not do anything but watch. Get this movie. You owe it to yourself to witness one of the major artistic events of the decade. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Many lesbian movies are long on charm and short on production values; Better Than Chocolate has a solid dose of both and steamy sex scenes to boot. Our heroine Maggie (Karyn Dwyer), a clerk at a lesbian bookstore, meets footloose butch Kim (Christina Cox) and, after Kim's van is towed away, they move in together. Unfortunately for their romantic bliss, Maggie's mother, Lila (Wendy Crewson), and teenage brother move in that very evening thanks to Lila's impending divorce. But what really complicates matters is that Maggie can't bring herself to come out to her mother; even when she tries, Lila steamrolls through the conversation, like she knows what's coming and doesn't want to hear it. Interwoven with this is the struggle of Judy (Peter Outerbridge), a male-to-female transsexual who's in love with the bookstore's owner, Frances (Ann-Marie MacDonald), who's freaking out because customs officers are holding a list ofbooks at the border that they claim are obscene. The overlapping plots are deftly juggled, the personal and political are compellingly interwoven, and, most satisfying of all, the characters have problems that aren't going to be easily resolved. A handful of candy-colored lip-synching musical numbers give the movie some flash and the sex scenes give the movie some heat, but it's the elements of sorrow and ambiguity that really make the joy in Better Than Chocolate something to savor.--Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (131)

8 out of 5 stars!
Better Than Chocolate describes itself in the title... a feel good, laugh a lot movie, BTC will hook you into the plot right from the first scene. With an incredible array of characters, including a transgendered(male to female) woman named Judy, the movie is funny and heartfelt. The low budget filming makes it seem that much more real and the storyline is excellent, though the acting may be slightly amateur and the dialogue a little cheesy. The main couple, Maggie and Kim are lesbians, but they represent any other couple going through real-life problems. Wendy Crewson is wonderful as the lonely, unknowing mother, and she steals at least one of the hilarious scenes. Anne-Marie MacDonald plays Frances, the boyish owner of Ten Percent books, where only ten percent of the merchandise is books. Overall, it is a warm, feel good movie, predictable at times but for some reason, I keep watching it, and I find myself crying right along with the characters every time. Definitely see this movie if it's the last thing you do...

Better Than Chocolate between...
I give this movie five out of five stars. Although it moves rather quickly you can't help being hook. Twenty minutes of the movie has past and Maggie, 19, not-quite-out, college dropout, and working at Ten Percent bookstore (no it's not a discount store) meets Kim, a nomadic artist, butch but sweet and romance starts. There's a scene that will leave many people exploring the arts.

Within the first twenty minutes, Maggie meets and falls in love with vivacious Kim, helps her conservative lesbian boss fight customs who seem to be trying to put her out of business. Oh, don't forget Maggie has to find a place to live, because her newly divorce mother, Lila is moving in with her along with sibling, Paul, neither who know that Maggie's been living in a bookstore since she quite law school, and she's gay!

Couple this with her omisexual co-worker, and transgender friend, Judy, who has love and parent issues of her/his own, and you've got a great story.

I almost cracked up when Lila goes..."Kim do you have a boyfriend?" and Kim replies, "No...Funny that!" Everyone seems to be in on the joke, but Lila who replies, "What's wrong with boys?" Maggie's fighting off an uncontrollable need for laughter and the audience does too. Wendy Crewson as Lila is an added addition to this romantic comedy.

All said in done, I wonder what it's like to live in that world. Definitely never a dull experience. This is a must see regardless of your lifestyle.

Wonderful and fun filled
We have watched this over and over again and it is still a wonderful movie.

WOW!
This is one of the all-time best movies. The chemistry between Karyn Dwyer (Maggie) and Christina Cox (Kim) is amazing. (I was shocked when the director seemed to say in her commentary that both are staight.) Maggie's interaction with her mother reminded me so much of how hard it was for me to come out to my mother. The soundtrack is wonderful.

Probably just as good as chocolate...
Better Than Chocolate is a great movie.. with one or two big flaws. The story is great - it deals with the pain and frustration of coming out (or just figuring out your sexuality), falling in love, losing the one you love, and standing up for what you believe in juxtaposed nicely with commentary on the role of family in ones' life, what constitutes a family, and how we can all become happy with our lives. Quite a lot of themes for just one film. And Better than Chocolate handles each of them fairly well, if only briefly. The actresses portraying Kim, Lila, Judy and Frances are just wonderful. Each of them brings dimension to characters that could easliy have been played in a very one-sided way. They become human rather than just symbols or stock players to fill up Maggie's world. The friendship that develops between Lila and Judy is one of the best parts of the film. Maybe this is just me, but I find that Maggie is a totally unsympathetic character. She's whiny and immature and even snotty at times. I care the least about her of all the characters in the film.. which is unfortunate because this is really a film revolving around her and the way her relationships (and those of her friends and family) work. I just wish that the role had been cast differently or spun a bit differently.. it would have brought a lot more to the film. Ultimately, I enjoy the film. The relationships and issues dealt with in the film are difficult to deal with, but the film does a reasonably good job. ... Read more

Description

Based on several short stories by writer Bruce LeBruce, Sugar is a provocative and funny coming of age love story. Cliff, a gay teen, is restless in his sheltered suburban life, and anxious to have his first sexual experience. One night, while downtown, he meets a tough street hustler, Butch, who introduces him to a world of sex, drugs, prostitution and life on the streets. Romance blossoms between the two until drugs begin to pull them apart. Realistic and challenging, Sugar is about coming out and coming of age. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Spot on!....A Brilliant Serious/Story Tale.
Spot On! This BRILLIANT serious indicates exactly what gay life is about and the difference amongst us all within the gay community. Well done and congratulations to the writers of Queer as Folk. I am totally hooked to this serious.

EXCELLENT TV SHOW!!
I absolutely love the show!!
It's so cool that the show presents a different world to me!
I enjoy involving the relationship between those charaters! They are adroable and memorable!! Especially the affection between Brian and Justin! It would be precious to you if you decided to buy those series!! I promise!!

Best Series Ever For Our Gay Community!
ITs about time that Queer life is celebrated! I own "Queer As Folk Seasons 1-3" and its the best showtime series I have ever seen! All 3 seasons so far have drama, romance, lust; and each season makes you want more! I became hooked instantly; having watched every season atleast five times!

At first, I was worried, seeing that I never watched the series before buying them. I jumped with both feet and bought all three at once. I Definitely, 100% not disappointed! The drama and the complications in the series between queer friendship, love, devotion, pride and honor is the best I have ever seen in any gay portrayed series!

Queer as folk shows all aspects of Queer life! The love between Justin and Brian, Mikey and Ben, Ted and Emmett, Lindsay and Melanie; and many other characters brings this series to a new level. Showing the honest view of gay life. I feel for every character, and care for each person and their lives, as it unfolds. Words can't express this series other than its a must see and definitely MUST OWN collection!

At times, this series will show sex and nudity, so its not for the faint at heart. But thats what makes this series even more special. The fact that nothings held back; in your face truthfulness of gay relationships! Its awesome!

If you never watched Queer as folk, I recommend to everyone they should! I cant wait to own Season four!

The Entire Collection From a Great TV Show
When "Queer As Folk" debuted on Showtime in 2000, it immediately sparked controversy, raising many eyebrows. Its unique graphic visionaries of sexuality has kept many talking. Not because of the sexual theme itself; it's the sexuality between two members of the same sex. The "in-your-face" effect earns the brave cast and crew tremendous respect for doing what no other has successfully done before. Before its debut, only two sitcoms have explored sexual orientation extensively: "Ellen" and "Will And Grace". The brilliance and the success of "Queer As Folk" has since earned rave reviews by many critics and still is today. Since its debut, the show has won and been nominated for several awards, including three, and counting, consecutive GLAAD Award nominations for Outstanding TV Drama.

The variey of character personalities offers great plot variety. Brian's frequent sexual activity, Michael's homelike presence, Emmitt's flamboyance, and Ted's shyness are only some traits that offer such joy to audiences. Justin, Debbie, Mel, Lindsay, and Ben also offer their own unique presence. The acting offers more great additional entertainment value. New and interesting ideas always keep audiences awaiting for the next episode. The combination of realism, drama, and slight comedy offers issues that some viewers can relate, including the straight/ ally community. Besides GLBT issues and struggles, it explores drug use, HIV/ AIDS, hate crimes, pornography, and many others. The shock value offers a great unforgettable experience. As the seasons progress, the plot and the characters follow.

Season one, the season always to be watched first, explores the coming out process, struggles in high school, struggles in the workplace, same sex couples raising a child, and others. Those who haven't watched the show will witness Justin meeting Brian for the first time, Lindsay giving birth to Gus (Brian is the father), Justin coming out for the first time, and of course Brian being Brian. Such deep chain of events and many others lead to a surprising and shocking season finale that keeps audiences awaiting for the second season premiere episode.

Season two starts with the result of the traumatic event on last season's finale. The characters begin evolving more throughout this season. Some surprising turn of events keep audiences interested in every detail. New viewers will witness Michael and Ted beginning their dream jobs, Michael meeting Ben who is HIV-positive, the birth of "Rage", Justin beginning college, Brian admitting more of his love for Justin, and of course Brian still being Brian. Viewers will be shocked when they learn Debbie's weak spot, despite being a strong GLBT ally. Robert Gant makes a wonderful debut as Ben. The acting from everyong shows great improvement throughout this season. Everyone creates their own tactics to keep audience watching. The chain of events, and many others, lead to a great season finale, leading to season three.

Season three answers questions that were cliffhanged in the second season finale. This season shows a greater variey of expressed issues, some which have not been expressed before, including politics, hustling, drug abuse, and others. This shows a greater emphasis on HIV/ AIDS issues, especially when Ben and Michael help a young hustler and when Ben's ex-boyfriend/friend dies of AIDS. This season shows surprising revolutions of some characters: an unlikely town hero arises to prevent a town from being run by a homophobic mayor candidate, an unlikely person becomes a crystal meth addict, and others. The chain of events and others lead to a shocking season finale that keeps audiences awaiting for season four.

This "Queer As Folk" set is a great collecion item for fans. This is sure to keep audiences entertained for a long time. First time viewers must watch this edition in order. Otherwise, the chain of events will be confusing.

Cast: Gale Howard (Brian), Hal Sparks (Michael), Randy Harrison (Justin), Peter Paige (Emmitt), Scott Lowell (Ted), Robert Gant (Ben), Michelle Clunie (Mel), Thea Gill (Lindsay), and Sharon Gless (Debbie).

Queer As Folk The Complete Seasons 1, 2, and 3 are wonderful
Queer As Folk is one of the most amazing TV Shows ever and is a landmark as the show for the new millennium. This amazing Box Set has Season 1,2, and 3. After three seasons I am still amazed at how honest this show is on dealing with gay life. Not every gay person lives a life like these guys, but that is not what this show is about. Queer As Folk ia about the life of a group of gay guys and a lesbian couple living in Pittsburgh. Queer As Folk makes no apologies and thats what is so great about this series. From the graphic sex scenes to the drama of dealing with the prejudice that still haunts America, this show is so brave and I give Showtime a big thumbs up for having the balls to take on such a big risk as Queer As Folk. This show is as close as it gets to real life. This is not a show just for gay people, but for ALL people. It deals with human emotion and thats something that we can all relate to whether we be straight, gay, bisexual, black, white, brown or in between. I encourage anyone who has a open mind and a open heart to BUY this amazing DVD collection as it will inspire you and if nothing else open your mind to a lifestyle not as uncommon as you may think. Watch more than one episode before you judge this amazing series. With season 1, 2, and 3 you will be entertained with this awesome show for more than a few days!

Queer As Folk The Complete First Season - The first Queer As Folk DVD Box Set has all 22 episodes of the first season of the most controversial and bravest series in the history of television. The total running time of all 6 DVD's is approx: 1,205 minutes which includes Bonus features such as: behind the scenes outtakes, deleted scenes, special edition episodes, a Photo Gallery, DVD rom extras, A 6 minute Season 2 Sneek Peek, and much more. Queer As Folk shows the life of a group of gay guys and a lesbian couple living in Pittsburgh and all the dramas that go on in each of their lives.

Queer As Folk The Complete Second Season - The DVD Box Set is over 900 minutes and has all 20 episodes of the second season of one of the most controversial television shows today. The BOX SET includes over 3 hours of Bonus features such as: behind the scenes outtakes, deleted scenes, special edition episodes, a Photo Gallery, DVD rom extras, and much more. Queer As Folk shows the life of a group of gay guys and a lesbian couple living in Pittsburgh. I feel the first season of QUEER AS FOLK is better, but this second season is very good as well and shows the growth of the characters. I have seen all 20 episodes of Season 2 and it is slower paced than the first season, and I sometimes find myself looking at my watch which rarely ever happened with season 1.

Queer As Folk The Complete Third Season - This New Queer As Folk Season 3 DVD Box Set is over 673 minutes and has all 14 episodes of the third season, which is still one of the most controversial and bravest series on television today. This BOX SET like the seasons before include over 3 hours of Bonus features such as: Behind-the-camera, Hot Summer Days, Wrap Party Reel, Enter Babylon LA, Meet the Folks, Animated Photo Gallery, Season Four Sneak Preview, Weblink, Music Videos, and a few other surprises. I have seen all 14 episodes of Season 3 and it is another great season with some major twists. Season 3 is also a step above season 2 which was a little drawn out when compared to season 1. I do have to say I am a little upset that this season is very short when compared to season 1 and 2, which both had about 7 or 8 more episodes, but either way it is still a good season. Can't wait till the new Season 4 starts on Showtime soon. ... Read more

Description

MY MOTHER LIKES WOMEN (A Mi Madre Le Gustan Las Mujeres) is a hilarious comedy about three sisters whose lives are thrown off-kilter by their mother's sudden sexual awakening.

Sofia, (Rosa Maria Sarda from All About My Mother), a renowned pianist, is long separated from the daughters' father. It is on the occasion of her birthday that she delivers a stunning announcement: she has fallen in love again.

Clearly smitten, she begins to describe her new lover: somewhat younger...also a pianist. The daughters, thrilled and eager to hear more, are interrupted by the doorbell. To their surprise, it's Mom's new girlfriend. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Todd Haynes, ever unpredictable, follows up his experimental trilogy Poison and his restrained Safe with this flamboyant study in glam rock through the kaleidoscopic lens of Citizen Kane. Christian Bale plays Arthur Stuart, a reporter sent to investigate the legend of rock legend and bisexual pop icon Brian Slade (Jonathan Rhys-Meyers as a not-so-thinly veiled David Bowie), who disappeared a decade ago after staging his own mock assassination. But Arthur is flooded with memories of his own adolescence as he interviews Slade's friends and business associates, peeling back the layer of makeup and spangles that was the model of rebellion for a generation of middle-class British kids and discovering a hollow center. Ewan McGregor almost steals the film as the punk pioneer Curt Wild (equal parts Iggy Pop and Kurt Cobain), the genuine article to Slade's calculated, coifed image of glitter stardom.Haynes's film lacks nothing in capturing the flamboyance and spectacle of the era with flashy filmmaking and kitschy costumes, and if the plot seems lost in the preening and visual fireworks, perhaps that's the point: behind the façades and manufactured fronts is nothing but glitter, energy, and a beat. --Sean Axmaker ... Read more

Reviews (216)

Beautiful, Lyrical, Fascinating, Glam Movie
I absolutely loved this movie from the first time I watched it late one night strictly by accident. The acting is superb by all of the main characters with McGregor really shining in his wonderful punk role of Curt Wild. This guy really proved what a talented performer he truly is. John Rys Meyers who plays Brian Slade was quite delicious to watch and I'm a straight female...I must say the scene where Slade and Wild are on stage together for the first time and the guitar scene was quite a turnon.

Of course, I'm a huge Christian Bale fan and he was wonderful as well as the reporter investigating the disappearnce of our rock icon Slade 10 years after a fake murder was staged. The flashbacks to his youth were well done and inciteful into his character.

Jack Fairy was a great character that added a bit of mystery and a true image of glam days. Eddy Izzard, what can you say, the guy is fantastic.

I loved this movie for it's glitz and glamour, for it's quirkiness and campiness but mostly for the FANTASTIC music and acting. CRANK IT UP and enjoy!!

stellar cast and far out cinema create incredible parable...
a lot of people will tell you they don't like velvet goldmine. they say it has no plot, or that it's boring, or its just based on david bowie's life. if you lived through the 70's and you're looking for a movie that is totally about celebrating the glam of your youth, then maybe this movie is not for you. however, if you're nutty for well crafted historical fiction, insanely innovative cineamatography, and really good, well acted movies than velvet goldmine will be right up your alley!!

velvet goldmine is about a young reporter (Christian Bale) who's been running from his past for ten years. the decade has brought him full circle to the ackwardness and loneliness he's been trying to escape, by taking him down memory lane in his latest assignment; an article asking, "what ever happened to brian slade (johnny rhys-meyers)?". on his quest, the reporter hears a very bowie-esque (and cinematographically, amazing) story about slade, and in the end, discovers that he doesn't have to run from his past anymore.

Just like a Prancer, a Gypsy dancer pt. 2
In addition to my last review, I should point out, after reading reviews saying "this isn't what Glam was really like"... The movie isn't supposed to be a historically accurate. "The ages live in history thru their anachronisms" (Oscar Wilde). The movie is "a work of pure fiction", and if you try to degrade it into fact, you're missing the beauty of it. It's a fairy tale. Glam rock, Oscar Wilde, etc... are merely vehicles for it to play out.

Just like a prancer, a Gypsy dancer
The film is beautiful. It's a fairy tale, love. Make no mistake about it. It's not a "history" of Glam rock and the characters are composites of many real people without being too much of anyone. It's a fairy tale.

The film is very symphonic and atmospheric, and flutters thru the celluloid sky. It can be confusing at first viewing, because everything is juxtaposed and jumbled. It flickers between eras, characters, and storylines in a half-remembered dream way. The movie must be watched as a feeling, not a sit-back-and-relax caper.

The movie is NOT based on David Bowie and Iggy Pop, at least not entirely. They never had such an affair and never had such lives. The movie is fiction. Brian Slade is no more David Bowie than he is Marc Bolan or Jobriath, and Curt Wilde is no more Iggy Pop than he is Lou Reed and David Johansen. And neither of them are any of them. They're composites of the essence of real people - or of the feeling of them - thrown into a London backdrop thru the lens of Citizen Kane and an Oscar Wilde fairy tale.

Many of the events are real events (Brian's Top of the Pops performance, as well as his relationship with Cecil, is very much akin to Marc Bolan's performance and relationship with Simon Napier-Bell -- The Maxwell Demon album cover is an almost exact remake of Jobriath's self-titled album cover, etc...). Many of the events are real fictions (the movie plays out threw a Citizen Kane-like sequence -- Oscar Wilde's story "Star Child" is carried throughout the movie via a green pendant which is passed around, not to mention many Wilde quotes and parables from stories such as "The Remarkable Rocket" and "The Picture of Dorian Gray"). But nothing in the movie is real. It's simply beautiful fancy.

The film is based around reporter Arthur Stewart, who is, in 1984, on a quest to discover the mysteries behind a fake murder/publicity stunt of Brian Slade in 1974. Everything and everyone in the movie circles back to him, and his discovery. What does he eventually discover? Symbolicly, himself. Literally... watch the movie.

The real Star of the film is Jack Fairy, a beautifully elusive archeotype with the grace of Garbo, the fantasy of Oscar Wilde, and the power of Marc Bolan who silently glides thru the movie, not saying a word until the end, but playing one of THE MOST VITAL ROLES in the movie (he and Arthur make the movie... Brian and Curt are just vehicles for everything to happen).

Many great songs too, from T. Rex, Roxy Music, Lou Reed, Cockney Rebel, etc... Most of them covers, though. As well as newbies such as Shudder To Think and Pulp.

It's a beautiful film. Not action packed, kinda confusing, and not too tethered to a plot. But beautiful - ethereal. It's very layered. If you enjoy Glam rock, Oscar Wilde, Citizen Kane, fairy tales, or just things and people to fall in love with, you'll probably like the movie.

Oh, one interestingly thing to point out is the surplus of Roxy Music songs, but the lack of a Bryan Ferry-like character. Bryan was a consultant for the film, so methinks that's intentional - he made sure they kept him out of the muck.

Very disappointed
I am a big fan of the whole "70 Glam" era. I am also a huge fan of Iggy Pop and the Stooges.
Here is the low down.
1. This movie is lame.
2. The only cool part of the movie was when Ewan/Iggy/Kurt was singing TV Eye.

This movie portrayed Iggy Pop/Kurt as David Bowie's lover. I don't think Iggy was having sex with Bowie. I wasn't there and I don't know for sure.

This was a huge disappointment. I think I was expecting something different. ... Read more

Reviews (40)

Hugely Entertaining Mini-series!!!
I remember back around the year 93 or 94 a co-worker of mine urging me to see this. I resisted thinking I would hate it. I finally relented thinking my co-worker and I had very similar tastes in film & television and if she liked it how bad could it be. So I took the tapes home and one night when I was really bored I popped it in. Well I cannot tell you how entranced I was with this story and its characters. I almost couldn't stop watching. It's very addictive....trust me. In fact, the story is so good and its characters so true to life that it makes you yearn for a place like 28 Barbary Lane in San Francisco. I wanted a landlady just like Mrs. Madrigal and friends like Mary-Ann, Brian, Mouse, & Mona. And now finally the dvd release of my absolute favorite mini-series of all time. I guess there is a GOD!!! There are also some nice features included with the series which is great. So if you find yourself on the fence debating the cost of this purchase allow me to steer you in the proper direction in making a decision. Buy this dvd now!!! You will not regret it. And in case you need any more arm twisting, you'll also notice that of the 21 reviews posted every single one of them rated this a 5.

Something for everybody
The "Tales of the City" series has become dear to my heart - probably my favorite movie of all time. The characters are one's that you'll love, from Mona's search for her purpose in life, to Mouse's quest for love, to Mary Ann's innocent take on things. Especially wonderful is Olympia Dukakis as Anna Madrigal. Her devotion to the Tales movies is commendable and her performance is outstanding. All in all, this is a great story about life in San Francisco in the 70s, from gay to straight, hippies to suits, poor to weathly. The plot keeps you craving for more. Also, I have yet to meet anyone who has seen this and not liked it. And to top it, the books are even better. Enjoy!

Simply Brilliant
I loved this movie thoroughly. I can't say any more, except "Get me to Barbary Lane"!

Take me back in time . . .
. . . to a better place and time.

Tales of the City is classic 70's SanFrancisco at its very best. The beautiful charachters brought to life by author Armistead Maupin are so lovable and well drawn that this series made me long for the 70's, which is QUITE a feat in itself!

wonderful
This is storytelling at it's best. There are so many storylines that are tied in together. I was born in 78, so I couldn't say whether or not it was a realistic representation of the era and the place, but it seems fairly realistic. There are just so many interesting characters.
Having said that, this isn'ta show for children. I love it and would certainly recommend it to otehrs ... Read more

Description

Queer As Folk – Season Four continues to follow the journey of a group of gay friends and lovers living in Pittsburgh. This critically acclaimed series brings with it mature stories about facing the challenges of same-sex parenting, discrimination, AIDS/HIV, cancer and morality. ... Read more

Reviews (39)

Awsome Show!! But....
I love Queer As Folk! I find it extremely entertaining to watch. I also love the characters and the story-lines. But why am I paying almost 100$ for only 13 episodes? I think it's an outragous price for basically a half season order. I can appreciate the special features, but honestly I'd rather have more meat(no pun). The same idea I apply for the first, second and third seasons as well. Many DVDs series containing 22 episodes are usually under 80$ with tax included. Anyways I've got nothing against Queer As Folk or anything like that, I just think it's a rip-off. Well there is my rant. Cheers!!

Some goods
If this has been the first season of QAF, I would have rated it 4 stars for the guts of the producer, thus 3 stars strictly based on the usual effects of the show and a few highlights I personally found remarkable:

1) Bravo to the character of Emmett Honeycutt, the scenes of "rampage" with that mouth-drooling scoccer pro Drew Boyd is a noteworthy issue in this new age of gay world.

2) Quote Linday's speaking of mind for her male hot-blooded persuader Sam, "There're a few rooms in the house, let's say I have occupied a few and the rest should be let unvisited."

3) TGI New Title Song and better cuts to kick off each episode!

Simply Life Changing
The Complete Fourth Season of Queer as Folk....
Where should I begin?

Let me first start out with a quick story about myself.The year was 1999, and I was an altar boy at a new church.Father Touchesboy, the head priest, did some things to me that I will never forget, not because they were so bad that I can't forget them, but because I actually liked what happened.Ill let you figure out the details.

Fastforward to the year 2004.I was getting sick of the bar scene and down on my luck with the ladies.I decided to stay home one friday night instead of going out to the bars andwatch T.V.Low and behold what did I find but "Queer as Folk" on Showtime, and let me tell you, only two premium movie channel series have ever changed my life, Oz being the first, and this being the second.

Now everything in my life has changed for the better. Watching this show has given me the strength to totally give up girls and find the true me, which wouldnt ya know it, likes guys.Its given me the power to make everyone feel uncomfortable when they turn their back to me or bend down in front of me, and has also given me complete job security, because if I ever get fired, not matter what the reason, I'll claim that it was because Im Gay:)

In conclusion, Queer As Folk has inspired me to be the biggest flamer I can, as well as given me the courage to gallavant all across South Florida in hopes of finding (boning) my dream men (specifically Mexicans).

Nowt as Queer...
Well, I'll begin with an admission: I'm a newbie to the US version of Queer as Folk, having only got into it from the third series. They were showing it late night over here, and I'd always refrained because I expected it be like any other show that had made its way over the pond (either way, not just UK->US) to be insipid and a badly made rehash of the original. Oh, how I was wrong. The US version of Queer as Folk is so much better than the UK original its difficult to quantify in words. Where Russell T Davies' original had dialogue that was ham-fisted and over-the-top, Queer as Folk consistently hit the mark with the right amount of emotion and understatement.

So, why not 5 stars? Well, having literally just finished watching the final episode of the series (I had to have it imported, series three has just finished here!), I can say I am a little disappointed overall with this series as opposed to the third. During the third, every episode would either move me with laughter, or with empathy/sympathy. Series 4 just didn't as much. (Note, I'm trying not to spoil it for those that may have not seen the series yet, unlike some of the other reviews here that divulge every single major point in the series, so be warned).

These are some of the things that made the series for me:

1. Emmett Honeycutt (Peter Paige). This guy is wonderful. Each and every one of the funny moments during the series has involved this guy. It is impossible to find him endearing and utterly loveable.
2. Debbie (Sharon Gless). Where we had the hairdresser from Coronation St, you get half of Cagney and Lacey. She's a star, and equally as colourful in this series as she was the last. Every one of her t-shirts made me laugh, and I just wish my mother wore them!
3. Brian does have a scare during the series, and even though some suggest that this in some way emasculates him, I disagree. He goes from strength to strength, and proves himself to be more human, even though he still stays beautifully distant and aloof. It's nice to see some sensitivity there, even just a glimour.
4. The handling of some of the more contentious issues was done very delicately (if a bit rushed throughout). I do agree with one of the other reviews that it sometimes felt like a wheel of fortune had been spun to decide what would be the next confrontation. However, on the whole it came off brilliantly.

Now, onto the bits I liked less:

1. Rage. Sorry, it's farcical. As is Justin's Nick Cave Lookalike buddy in "the bizz". This ruined it for me a bit. Especially after such a wonderful scene as the marriage (not giving away who) it breaks to a set which is acted even worse than the worst of porn. Simply awful and I wish they'd drop it. Looks like they won't though.
2. The ghettoism of gay people throughout. Don't any gay people in America have straight friends (Justin's flatmate being the exception, but she's a throwback from the UK original)? Sorry, but this was exacerbated by the Pink Posse thing (which was hideous, insulting and contrived), with the "them and us" attitude. This show is hard hitting, but was originally aimed at helping to bring gay issues to the mainstream, not make the situation worse.
3. Justin. This character, with each series, becomes more and more annoyingly self-absorbed and narcissistic. Where in series 3 he is promoting sacrifice for that you love most, he's willing to give it all up for his five minutes of fame. Always self-righteous, he gets right on my.... [insert expletive here].

However, even with these flaws aside, this series is a bastion for what TV should try to be - confrontational and direct. In these times of reality TV making every good show step aside, I'm surprised it hasn't been cancelled, after all we're only 10% of the population and it can't realistically appeal to the mainstream on the whole (and it's nigh on impossible to buy over here, where it is, in fact, immensely popular), so I'm grateful that it's there. Superbly acted, superbly realised, and (mostly) superbly written - let's hope the fifth and final series goes out with a bang.

Oh, and one final thing: the music throughout is superb (I'm mot talking Babylon here, who'd have expected a gay-oriented series to have bands such as Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Snow Patrol featured? I was chuffed, to say the least; there's more to gay life than Kylie!)

Enjoy.

Loved IT!!!
Regardless, of some of the negetive feedback by amazon customers. I thought this season was the best of all four!! Becasue in this season, EVERYONE was suffering through some type of drama. Emmett is suffering in a relationship with a closet gay, Pro-Football player. Then at a F-balll game, Emmet finds out that his boyfriend is engaged to his friend/client. When is the last time something like that has been aired, with the sex and all?

Brian getting cancer, and recovering was the best that happened to him. It finally showed he was human, and not an indestructable hearthrob.Melanie had to deal with Lindsy falling "straight" to one of her clients.Debbie has issues that she doesn't get to resolve, with her gay brother who dropped dead. Micheal and Ben are working at being the best fahters they can be. Ted's life is getting on track, from his drug fall. A well as his porno website days etc.

The producers are really giving these characters all the drama and trials that they can give, surrounding the Gay community. Its' an awsome season. ... Read more

Reviews (74)

Schmaltz In A Purple Wrapper
[Add a half-star if you don't mind being manipulated.]

All during the summer, in seeing previews, I was worried about To Wong Foo... being an American version or rip-off of Priscilla: Queen Of The Desert. Trust me, there are a lot of similarities; however To Wong Foo... stands on its own as an enjoyable movie experience. In the audience I sat in, there was laughter and applause throughout and I found myself laughing and applauding along. (I hadn't expected to.)

Patrick Swayze is Vida Boheme, a drag queen from Bala Cynwyd, PA living in New York City. Bala Cynwyd is pivotal in his story. So is Noxeema Jackson (Wesley Snipes). Boheme and Jackson are friends competing against Chi Chi Rodriguez (John Leguizamo) and others for "Drag Queen of the Year". Well, as luck would have it, Boheme and Jackson tie for the honors and both win an all-expense paid trip to Hollywood.

Well, Boheme is a queen with a heart. She can't stand to see Chi Chi, who lives in the same building, so upset about not winning the crown; so, Vida bullies Noxeema into trading their paid-for airline tickets for a car and, together, the three set off to drive cross-country. Shades of Boys On The Side.

Early on, the trio is stopped in the middle of nowhere by a county sheriff (Chris Penn in a hoot of a role). What happens next brings more remembrances of Boys On The Side.

Eventually, our fun-loving "females" end up in Snydersville, a small hamlet where everyone seems to have a problem and our girls have a solution for every single one of them. Despite this manipulation, To Wong Foo... delights at every turn. It's laugh-out-loud funny and not at all subtle. Normally, that would be a criticism, but in this case, it turns out to be a refreshing change of pace.

Of course, all of the elements in the story come together for a schmaltzy conclusion. But, that's OK. You'll get all wrapped up in it anyway, just like I did.

(Boy, was I surprised.)

[Originally written 10 September 1995]

A Fine, Fun and Snazzy Film, anything but a Drag!
This movie is one of those rare perfect films. Casting is brilliant (especially Stockard Channing, who only gets better and better as the years go by--and she was always totally incapable of less than a fantastic performance). The general plot line of the movie is a congenial road trip, as three drag queens drive from New York City to California to compete in a contest, and the themes are fulfilling.

In essence, the movie deals with the healing of "broken people." (For other such films, see such gems as "Batteries Not Included" and "Fried Green Tomatoes.") The unlikely angels? The three drag queens. The situation? Their car breaks down in a red-neck hamlet. Unlikely hijinks and dangerous confrontations lead to a satisfying conclusion.

And Julie Newmar was never better!

Uneven but when it's good it's GREAT
"To Wong Foo" seemed horribly miscast when you found out who was in it ... I mean, John Leguizamo had done drag before, proving himself to be very convincing and most definitely in touch with his "feminine side" -- but Wesley Snipes and Patrick Swayze??! Two macho movie stars pulling off parts as drag queens on a road trip?

But then you saw the movie ...

The three men do excellent jobs, Wesley Snipes in particular a total surprise in his role as Noxeema Jackson, drag queen with Attitude. Swayze, as Vida Boheme, is the "lady" of the trio who can get down and dirty when she has to -- and Leguziamo as Chi Chi Rodriguez is nothing short of perfection.

The plot is simple: At New York's Drag Queen of the Year contest, Noxeema and Vida tie for the crown. The title comes with a free airline ticket to Los Angeles, to compete in the Drag Queen of America competition, and the two "girls" couldn't be more excited. But then they meet little Latin Chi Chi Rodriguez, whose drag queen self-esteem was not at all helped by losing this competition. Vida, the kind of person who always believes in helping those less fortunate, talks a VERY disgruntled Noxeema into selling their plane tickets ... and using the money instead to buy a cheap car and drive to the L.A. contest. The night of the win, Vida spots an autographed photo of Miss Julie Newmar on the wall of the reataurant they are dining in, and reads the inscription: "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar". For those not in the know ... for years actress/model Julie Newmar, best known for her role at Catwoman on the tv series "Batman," has had rumors floating around saying that she's a drag queen in real life -- not a woman. She's just too statuesque, her face too strong on bone structure, to be a real woman! When Vida sees the framed autographed photo on the wall, she takes this as a sign that the three of them will be blessed on their quest. She also takes the photograph.

Halfway 'cross country, in Nebraska, the threesome is stopped by a racist sheriff who notices their tail light is out. Taking Vide back toward his car, he comes onto her, thinking she is a real woman. When he reaches under her dress and learns the truth, Vida tries to break free ... and knocks the sheriff to the ground, where he conks his head. They drive off quickly, before he can come to and REALLY do them all some damage.

Soon after, their old Cadillac breaks down, and Chi Chi hitchhikes them all a ride into Snydersville, a town that makes Mayberry look like New York City. Tiny and hick and populated with small-town minds as well, Snydersville seems to be the LAST place three drag queens would want to get stranded (if they want to live, that is), but when these three are stalled there for the weekend, until they get their car repaired, they decide to make the best of it by making over the town's women, addding some spark to a Strawberry Social - and, in general, bringing tons of color to an otherwise drab existence. But little do they know that Sheriff Dollard (Chris Penn) - who is less than thrilled by being knocked unconscious by a "boy in a dress," is out to find them ...

The movie is uneven in spots - the scenes in the town go from hysterical to being too stage - but overall whenever Snipes or Swayze or Leguizamo are on-screen, you could never be bored. Funny and with some VERY sharp one-liners, the movie comes close (especially in the end) to turning sappy with its "why can't we all just get along" mind-set -- but never quite pushes that envelope. The three leads are EXCELLENT, and backed beautifully by a great supporting cast the includes Stockard Channig, Melinda Dillon, Chris Penn, Jason London - even "Alias" star Michael Vartan. Ru Paul and Robin Williams add both class and style to brief cameos ... as does the one and only Miss Julie Newmar herself.

Stylish and funny and just corny enough to work, this comedy is anything but a drag ...

Oh no girlfriend, did you just do a ue?
Nothing but praise for this great flick! Let's face it, while it may not be a movie that George Bush would ever watch (mind you if he did he could learn a thing or two about love and acceptance). I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to watch a great movie. Even after seeing it over five times I still laugh out loud and get a kick out of all three "ladies"! Robin Williams is hilarious and RuPaul makes a surprise visit! Rent it today and you will be glad you did!

"It comes down to that age-old decision: style or substance"
One year after the success of the 1994 Australian film "The Adventures Priscilla, Queen of the Desert", Amblin Entertainment and Universal Pictures joined to produce the 1995 American version, "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar". Like the Australian film, which featured a trio of drag queens traveling across the rugged Australian outback from Sydney to the isolated resort of Alice Springs in a pink bus, the American version featured its own drag queen trio traveling from NYC to Los Angeles in an aging yellow Cadillac convertible; but the similarities end there. The drag queen trio featured in the American version was Miss Noxeema Jackson (Wesley Snipes), Miss Vida Boheme (Patrick Swayze) and Miss Chi-Chi Rodriguez (John Leguizamo). After Noxeema and Vida share the title of a drag queen contest, they invite (with Noxeema's reluctance) Chi-Chi to join them to participate in a national contest in Los Angeles. Not having enough money for all three to fly to Los Angeles from NYC, Vida convinces them to instead use their winnings to purchase a car that all three could travel in. The film's title comes from an autographed picture of Julie Newmar that Vida steals from a restaurant and places in the used yellow Cadillac convertible that the trio purchases. Similar to the Australian version, the car breaks down along the way, forcing the trio to stay a few days in a small, languishing town. There, they meet the town's assorted residents that include hotel owner Carol Ann (Stockard Channing), her abusive husband Virgil (Arliss Howard), Beatrice (Blythe Danner), the polite Bobby Ray (Jason London), Merna (Melinda Dillon), Loretta (Beth Grant), the aging Clara (Alice Drummond) and restaurant owner Jimmy Joe (Mike Hodge) to name a few. They also meet law enforcement officer Sheriff Dollard (Chris Penn) who wants to arrest them.

Though arguably not as well made as "The Adventures Priscilla, Queen of the Desert", "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar" is still a very entertaining and engaging film that is sufficiently different from the former to not be redundant. Cameo appearances in the film include Julie Newmar, Robin Williams (as John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt), RuPaul (as Miss Rachel Tensions) and Naomi Campbell. Memorable scenes in the film include the restaurant, the used car lot, Vida seeing her mother (Margaret H. Flynn), Chi-Chi earning rites of passage, Sheriff Dollard, Noxeema's interactions with townsfolk, the clothing store, the beauty parlor and the closing scenes. Patrick Swawye received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Comedy/Musical, and John Leguizamo received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor in the Comedy/Musical. Sadly, Wesley Snipes did not receive a nomination for his excellent performance. Overall, I rate the film with 4 out of 5 stars. After watching the deleted scenes on the DVD, I concluded that they were best left deleted. ... Read more

Description

Jeanne, a happily married, 35-year-old osteopath with a 7-year old son named Louis meets a pretty dancer named Marie at a party arranged by her husband. A son named Louis meets a pretty dancer named Marie at a party arranged by her husband. While Marie is much younger than Jeanne, there is an immediate chemistry between them.The two soon become close friends and Jeanne decides to start taking a dance class taught by Marie.But when Marie starts to fall in love with Jeanne and decides to kiss her, Jeanne discovers she too loves Marie.Jeanne must now choose between the happy family life she currently maintains and her new love. ... Read more

Description

An ambitious epic romance that traces the course of two men through their initial meeting as teenagers in 1973 until the mid 80’s. Alan is a member of the Young Republicans and an aspiring journalist. He’s working on a book about the evils of homosexuality, and invites Tommy, a gay rights activist, over for dinner and to interview him for the book. Thus begins a friendship that leads to a love affair told against the background of Anita Bryant, radical politics and the emerging gay rights movement. A hugeaudience hit during its festival and National Theatrical release, THE TRIP is a funny, touching and powerful film. ... Read more

Reviews (77)

Fantastic movie!!!!
Moving love story! Entertaining, emotional...this film will take you back to memories of your first love, you know - the one who in your youth brought you out of your closet kicking and screaming. The Trip is a romantic comedy that manages to show love at its best and worst, deepest and shallowest, most joyous and most tragic.
It's an hour and a half in the dark after which you won't lament the price of admission. In this era of TV-show adaptations and There's Something About Mary rip-off's, this renders it just shy of a gem. The triumphs and tragedies of love, not to mention a host of uncomfortable social situations, transcend the era of the film and create scenarios with which most gay men can relate.
Sirena Irwin is hilarious as Alan's hippie chick lover turned power yuppie entrepreneur. MTV alumnus Julie Brown turns in a totally gnarly cameo as a receptionist with a flare for eighties style. But former Bond girl Jill St. John steals the show in her supporting role as Alan's meddlesome, liberal, and alcoholic mom. Finally something bigger than just a movie. Finally a gay romantic comedy that is not about two boys meeting-cute-and spending twenty four hours in extended, cheesy bliss. The Trip aspires to be a gayer version of The Way We Were.The Trip follows two men (wonderfully played by Larry Sullivan and Steve Braun), as they meet through recent gay history. Watching their {Tommy & Alan} tentative attempts to reconcile time and distance is alternately sweet and heart wrenching. A touching love story, The Trip is also an entertaining, Cliff's Notes version of the history of gay rights and the evolution of the gay community.

Incredible first film!
The Trip is a romantic comedy that manages to show love at its best and worst, deepest and shallowest, most joyous and most tragic.
It's an hour and a half in the dark after which you won't lament the price of admission. In this era of TV-show adaptations and There's Something About Mary rip-off's, this renders it just shy of a gem. The triumphs and tragedies of love, not to mention a host of uncomfortable social situations, transcend the era of the film and create scenarios with which most gay men can relate.
Seamless acting, a clever story and just the right pitch between comedy and drama mark this as a standout. The Trip is a surprising refreshing entry into
this very open arena. Jill St. John who appears as a showgirl turned conservative housefrau, who proves she has lost none of her edge or street smarts, is an unexpected surprise. She really does have a sense of humor
about herself. First time Director Miles Swain has a unique ability to tell a story without the story sounding dull or expected. The film is a seamless somewhat serious somewhat comedic piece of story telling that manages to
make points without hitting anyone over the head with a hammer. Mixing politics with passion, the many points made about coming out, political trends and the change of the American climate over the last few decades is handled skillfully. Unlike so many period pieces, or films that cover the passage of many years, this one keeps the focus on the subjects rather than making a big production about contrasts between things then and now. The Trip is a
superb first time effort from Director Miles Swain and he has ever reason to be proud. If you are looking for a polished well written well cast film about coming out, for now The Trip is as good as it possibly gets. You must see this movie. It is one of the best films I've seen in years, gay or straight. It is funny, touching and provocative all in the span of an hour and a half. It's romantic and political and funny. It's about honesty, parental allies and the costs of turning a blind eye. It's a history lesson for many and a trip down memory lane for others. When guys from 20 to 60 all laughed, cried and found something they were moved, you know you have a great film.

A true love story...
This is the best gay love story I have seen yet! The entire story pulls you into the lives of Alan and Tommy. It's comical, intense and tearful. A great movie! Congrats to Miles Swain, the Writer and Director. Buy the movie, you'll love it, over and over again.

A real gay love story... Finally!!!
I really enjoyed this film because I feel it actually focused on the love shared between two gay mean instead of the stereo-typical drama perpetuated by most gay genre film. Though it can be a bit "campy" in a few elements; I feel, as a gay man, this is one of the most inspiring gay films Ive ever seen. It truly gives hope to those of us out there not sure if real love is possible aside from the club and sexual scene.
Thank You

Loved it - Funny, moving and entertaining!
Do not even listen to all the negative reviews, you guys. This movie is really good. I laugh so hard every time I watch it! Rent it first and decide for yourself. I took a chance and bought the DVD and THIS time I am glad I did.

Love it, love it, love it. ... Read more