Who didn’t love him as Captain Von Trappe in The Sound of Music? Christopher Plummer hit another career high note on Sunday evening, taking home the Academy Award for his brilliant portrayal of a gay senior in the movie, Beginnings. This was a proud moment for him, having gone Oscarless throughout his 50 year career. At age 82, he is the oldest actor to win the coveted gold statuette. In his touching acceptance speech, he clenched his elusive Oscar and whispered to him, “Where have you been all my life?” (Click here to see the speech)
His film role was equally touching. If you haven’t seen it, try to. It’s an emotional tale of a bachelor artist Oliver (Ewan McGregor) coming to terms with the sudden news that his father Hal (Plummer) is gay and dying. What makes it even more compelling is knowing that the story is right out of a real life experience; film’s director/writer Mike Mills’s own father came out to him when he was in his 30’s. Watch the trailer here.
It was also a proud moment for the LGBT community, who often must sit through an array of gay stereotypes at the movies. To see Plummer’s portrayal of a LGBT senior who is vital, strong, and with such depth was powerful stuff for me. Plus I am a sucker for good father/son stories!
Being in the LGBT marketing and communications business, Jenn and I make it our business to celebrate great gay portrayals in the media. Thanks Mr. Plummer, a true LGBT ally. Congratulations!
And while on the cinema subject, be sure to check out LGBT Film Festivals throughout the country this year; there are 4 star films with a rainbow of emotions from comedy to heavy drama. The Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Film Festival is celebrating it’s 25th Annivesary and is the state’s oldest film festival. (http://www.outfilmct.org/) We wish Executive Director Shane Engstrom and his film crew much sucess for their Outfest, which runs June 1-9th. A special shout out to their corporate sponsors, like Cigna and Pratt & Whitney, for their support in telling LGBT stories.
See you at the movies!
Dan (and Jenn)
