Robin Williams was amazing with protecting Nathan lane during the press for this movie because he was not out yet and he kept getting asked about his sexuality. Look up the Oprah interview and he was so good and deflecting uncomfortable questions Oprah asked Nathan.
Oprah should have never done that. Hindsight 20/20 and I know it's a different.. awareness culture we have now (not sure if it's the right term). But as interviewers, you don't do that. You don't force people to come out, or reveal pregnancies (looking at you Ellen) or talk about past trauma. Awful
I always love the story of how Robin protected Nathan when Oprah went in on him and try and rip the closet door off. He turned it into a bit to get the heat off him.
How Robin Williams was so protective of Nathan Lane in real life makes me love this movie even more than I already do. Happy Pride to you both forever beautiful
That Oprah interview was the worst!! He didn't come out until years later and people tried to take that away from him. Robin Williams was a genuine angel ❤
The fact that they were at the wedding means that they accepted the whole family that their daughter was marrying into. If they didn't accept them, they wouldn't have attended the wedding.
Val's request is difficult to understand today or in the 90s. The original play was written in 1973, when many more people were much deeper in the closet and being out was even more dangerous than it is today. The original French movie is wonderful and worth watching (subtitled not dubbed).
That was the thing. Val's behavior would not have even been acceptable in the when the movie was released. And I did not see anything that ever redeems him.
The fact that they actually went along with it I took as a hint that they must have spoiled the hell out of him and indulged him on everything when he was a kid if they couldn't even bring themselves to draw the line there. It doesn't excuse Val but it explains why he turned out the way he did. Somewhat of a parenting fail by Armand and Al
Thank you. One of the biggest problem I see with younger people watching movies made before they were born is that they don't see the context of time, and judge characters by the standards of the time they live in now.
@@torontomame At the same time, you can say that respect for the people that raised you is multi-generational. Val does not ever show an ounce of love or respect for Albert. He's very cruel. It's one thing to have family members in the closet and another to treat them like the closet isn't enough. I don't think Val even directly speaks to Albert about this. Watching it in 1996, gay people were catching that contempt Val was showing bordered on homophobia.
I always felt this movie was the best statement for gay parents. Their son was a happy, healthy, average guy. Yes, he messed up by trying to get his parents to lie about who they are, but he realized in the end that he loved them for it. Like he said at the beginning, he was the only guy in his frat that didn’t come from a broken home. It showcased that gay parents are just as good or better than straight. This movie is also based on the musical La Cage Aux Folles and Nathan Lane wasn’t out yet. Robin Williams helped cover for him in all the interviews because he knew that Nathan was gay but also knew that Nathan didn’t want anyone to know yet. 10/10 would recommend everyone watch.
Wes and Chey.. This movie was mine and my mother's favorite movie. We loved it. We loved watching it together, and celebrating PRIDE. The actors, the comedy, the uplifting message. Today is the 8 year anniversary of my mother's death, and it's been a day of reflecting. I get to close the day out watching this reaction and remembering the beautiful memories with mom. Thanks to you both! 😘🥰❤🧡💛💚💙💜
Omg!!! Sending you lots of love today! The fact that you both shared this beautiful movie says a lot about her and your relationship with her ❤️❤️ love that so much and we’re so glad this timing worked out like this 🤗🥰
This movie is a favorite of my family's, and it would be nothing without Nathan Lane! Originally, they wanted Steve Martin for Armand and Robin to play Albert. But Robin didn't want to keep getting cast as the manic comic relief and wouldn't do it unless he could play Armand. Thank God he got his way!
If you like this movie, you should watch the original French comedy that this is based on, "La Cage aux Folles". The French actor who played the drag star, won a César Award, their version of the Oscar.
Tell it. Loved the movie, first saw it in the 80s. You rock, know the history. And, he thought Armond was a chicken hawk, his son, was a chicken, this generation.😋, rayray 🤙✌️✊😎
Watching this movie together was the moment my husband and I fell in love, we were both quoting it the entire time. We’ve been together for over 10 years now ☺️ 🌈
One of my favorite comedies of all time. I showed it to my mom (I'm gay), who wasn't that interested at first, and she laughed incredibly hard and told me afterwards that this is one of her favorite movies now. That made me happier than I can describe. This movie's so wonderful, Robin Williams and especially Nathan Lane knocked it out of the park.
So here is some behind the camera tea. Robin was supposed to play Albert, but he was just coming off of Mrs. Doubtfire and did not want to cross dress for a role so soon. When this film came out, Nathan was not out publicly so the press tour was a bit of its own Birdcage. I can't remember what Oprah asked, but it just about let the cat out of the bag. Robin was there and stepped in so masterfully.
This and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert are two of my top ten films. I never get tired of watching them. Saw them both in the cinema as a teenager and I've never laughed so hard in my life. I'd love it if you beautiful boys reacted to Priscilla. It's such a classic❤
Nathan Lane in this film is the reason i put color and flare into all my outfits I fell in love with Nathan as an actor from this film Such a witty and talented man.
The promoting of this movie, Nathan Lane(Albert) was not out as gay and when he and Robin were on Oprah, she kept asking about Nathan's romantic preference which Robin defended Nathan. Proud of Robin
Fun Fact: Most of the songs that the main actors sing were written by the late great Stephen Sondheim. He wrote one original song that was used for the scene with the bubble gum chewing dancer. The other two (the beginning of Starina's number and the dance scene with Christine Baranski and Robin Williams) were songs that were cut from his musicals.
Your reaction is a reminder of how far we’ve come. At the time, this WAS a happy ending with closure because no one got beat up, murdered, or sacrificed. I remember seeing this movie in theaters for a second time in upstate NY, and there was no laughing in the audience, just sighs of disgust.
This. When this came out, we were rooting for Val and Babs to get through the night. Today, Val is the bad guy for putting his family through hell. I always wanted a series with Albert, Armand, and Agador after watching this, but sadly no.
To be fair the original play this is based off of was back in 1973, when coming out was far more dangerous Also people overlook that because the daughter is 17, she can't marry without parental consent Which is why Val says it is only for one night, cause after that it won't matter.
Nathan Lane is one of the only actors that could go toe to toe with Robin Williams in improv. They got so wild, the director, Mike Nichols begged them to do at least one take as written, then they could go wild.
I literally shrieked like Albert when I saw that you're watching this!!! 😂❤ This has been a fave of mine since it first came out (no pun intended) and its so great to see a new generation hate on Val and the dumb senator guy 😂😂😂 Robin, Nathan & Christine are everything though ❤❤❤ Great reaction, loves!
I can see Albert showing all the guests at the wedding reception to photo album he had of Val, showing off stuff like his penmanship award. Could be a good bonding experience between him and the senators wife, baby pictures.
My dad loved this movie when I was a kid. I remember him quoting Hank Azaria's lines, and listening to the Gloria Estefan song in the car. My dad and I aren't close anymore, but I'm glad I have those memories of him with this movie. Happy pride to all my fellow queers!
I discovered your channel with the "Interview With The Vampire" series reactions and then I saw you post THIS!!! I worked several years in the theatre business, and had a great time running this film back in the day. It was so well-loved, even in my small sleepy town. I had such a fun time watching your reaction! Tears in my eyes from laughing along. Happy Pride month from Florida!
My head cannon is she isn’t actually “not even 18”. The father is just so disconnected and unconcerned with anything other than his political career that he just operates with “my kid is still a kid, if she wasn’t someone would have told me.”
Omgggg yasss I’m so freaking happy to see my two favorite queens doing a reaction to this movie! Thank you loves!!! ❤❤ you have made my week so much better
Your mouths agape at 45:43 was priceless. Also, if there were a category for queens who put on lip balm the most during a reaction video you two would win. LOL!
This was actually the first Rated R movie I was allowed to see in theaters. I was 14 at the time so my mom went with me. We are fans of Nathan Lane and Robin Williams. My mom told me that Nathan Lane was the voice of Timon from the Lion King since I recognized his voice. I'll freely admit, I still wasn't TOO familiar with Queer culture yet (I was aware of it by then), so some of the aspects went over my head. While this will never be a fav movie of mine personally, I do think it's a great movie and it did make me laugh. Edit- Side note, I was raised Catholic, but I was also raised to follow the Golden Rule too- "Love others as I have loved you." One of my mom's friends from HS was gay and she did everything she could to help him out since I never fully 'came out' until he was an adult. I think the reason why my own family was so open to different types of people because our family was judged at one point for being both German and Catholic, so why would we judge others? Plus it's just the right thing to do to treat others with love and kindness.
btw...I'm a 73 year old grandmother and I really enjoyed spending this time with you and seeing your reactions to this wonderful movie. Thank you. Love you...I may have to adopt you both.
For me and with all due respect to the OG movie, HOW could it be better if this one has RW and the other does not? I totally get your point, but when talking about art (and people , and everything really) better/worse are individual categories subjected to the experiences and feelings we carry. So, even if I don't know, the script is tighter, having a moment to enjoy my dead "tv dad" will always be a better experience, and I would be thinking about him the whole time. There is no technicality that weights more than the love I've had for him since being a child in the nineties, and I think a lot of people feel the same way about him.
You might want to check out the 1978 French original la cage aux folles. When this came out i thought it wasn't up to the original, but I don't know how it has aged. It was a big crossover hit in the States and was instrumental to drag revues like la cage aux faux in Hollywood. My mom used to take us kids there when I was a teen. :)
I love this film for the reason that William and Lane are playing the wrong characters. At the time, Williams always played the flamboyant and crazy characters, and Lane was a more buttoned up straight man. Here they are playing opposite what was considered their type, and it worked so well.
OMYGOD. I just LOVE watching the young gays watch this movie. I LOVE how actually HORRIFIED you are that Val would even DARE. It's only 20 years or so later that we all kind of realize that while The Senator is an obvious antagonist - Val is actually the VILAIN. You guys are freaking ADORABLE. Love from Detroit (and the 90s)
This is a favorite of mine. It shows how important family is. They love their son and they would do anything for him but they also learn lessons along the way about learning to stand up for each other and be honest. This isn’t an alliance thing. Ultimately this is a family issue they are struggling to get through. And gene pack man is a brilliant actor with a great filmography but seeing him in drag cracked me up. 😂 Nathan lane is brilliant as always. He guest stars on a few episodes of modern family as pepper.
Can you do "To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar"? That has Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes, and John Leguizamo in drag. RuPaul also makes a cameo, and Stockard Channing is in it as well. Oh and I think Robin Williams makes a small appearance in it too! Uncredited!
This movie is perfection. But honestly. Ppl don’t realise how traumatising it is being Nathan laned in real life. I remember the first Xmas I was with my ex his grandmother was coming over so I was sent away so not to create waves or be have to explained. Thankfully Alex’s sister when asked where I was and he told her said to him. If u ever treat Shane like that again I’m never talking to u. So was nice to have an ally in his family, that would’ve been early 2000s
I got CHILLS when he said... It took me 20 years to get here and I'm not going to let some I'd I ot Senator destroy that WHY 20 years later are we could STILL quote that line.. 😢
Val isn't the anti-hero. He loves his parents, both of them. His fiance told her conservative Christian parents lies about the lifestyle they lead and he's doing his best to try and cover. He doesn't want his parents to change, he doesn't resent them or anything... neither does the soon-to-be-stepdaughter, but that's where the comedy happens. Trying to make this gay couple seem straight for a night and how difficult that would be, lol. Val isn't an anti-hero, he's a kid that wants to get married that was thrown into a situation he would have never chosen. Robin, Nathan, and Hank do such great jobs I never really even looked at Val too much, but I paid more attention since you guys mentioned him so much.
Nathan Lane's performance could've gotten him an Oscar, or at least a nomination, if the Academy took comedy seriously. And I must point out the missed opportunity to call it your "Gay-treon."
In the waning days of Pride Month 2024, or maybe to get an 11-month head start on Pride Month 2025, you might want to watch and react to Latter Days, a low-budget but awesome film from about two decades ago. Not quite up to Red, White & Royal Blue (can any be?) but still a great romantic film. Still available for free on RUclips.
Baybbees you are not ready for ep 8 on IWTV .... best finale I’ve seen in a while. . Fallout was wonderful... but this one is something above that. Cant WAIT to see your reactions!!! ♥️
a few things: All the songs in the film you hear 'sung' are by Stephen Sondheim. Also, If you haven't seen Beranski in the show 'Cybil' from the 90s, you are missing LIFE!
Val and his bride-to-be come across as real bastards for forcing his parents to pretend to be someone else, but I try to forgive them as it is essential to the plot. (The girl is only 17 so I think she can't marry without her parents consent. So I think this deception was supposed to be just this one time after which it won't matter. Also, the two sets of parents may never meet again.)
To be fair, Barbara isn't part of tearing things apart for Albert and Armand: she did lie, but it was on the fly, and things went out of control on the Keeley end very quickly. It's Val who took the wheel in deciding all the changes. I'm fairly sure he and Barbara didn't consult each other on this.
@@melenatorr It is funny, too, that real homophobes often don't see people they know as possibly being queer because they are so "nice and normal." I remember little old ladies who simply couldn't grasp that Librace was, as he flounced his way around his piano. (His whole shtick was to be as flamboyant as possible.) So accepting Albert as the uncle would not have been hard, even despite the pink socks, but again, if so, no movie. I'm also reminded of Guess Who's Coming To Dinner. The parents of the white girl are having a problem so much so that the engagement might be called off, as Sidney Poitier was going to call it off. This gave the movie lots time to discuss the issue. At the same time, HIS parents were equally shocked and was against it so the audience got to hear that side. But watching it today, I feel a bit resentfulness that the couple would actually not marry. I think of say some wonderful smart-ass actor in the Sidney Poitier role, like Will Smith, saying "well, then, you won't be seeing the grandchildren! Yes, it was good and right for all the discussions but not on the threat of cancelling the marriage. But again, there would have been no movie. It is so good, however, for Armand to insist he won't change how he looks and then only does it for his son. This movie is based on a French movie which came out a few years earlier, La Cage aux Folles, which is also quite funny (with English subtitles). I think the Val part felt different but it also was so much earlier, the homophobia itself seemed more "normal."
Yeah, at the end they said something like "why are you going with them?" and it's because she's still 17! I know they wanted more closure, but the senator putting on drag (even to save himself) was really a big step in itself. I mean, some guys would have set the club on fire rather than the horror of wearing lipstick.
You two have quickly become one of my favorite channels to watch. I have always loved gay couples as they tend to be very open and upbeat people. Keep being who you are no matter what anyone says. ❤❤
This movie is a classic. There's so many stries about how Robin protected Nathan and was his friend. I remember seeing this a bb queer and how much it spoke and how much heart it had.
Every damn time I watch this movie I'm just so happy lol it's like chocolate for the eyeballs and heart. If that even makes sense. But I agree... I guess in the 90s it was considered acceptance in a more passive way. My half brother's much older than me and came out as gay around that time so I always think about what it must have been like for him in the 90s when people were still weird about it. And now I'm queer too... something I laugh about a lot, as my mum (not his parent) was pretty homophobic towards my half bro, but now she has two grown kids who now are also both gay. Life's crazy. I don't remember if I ever suggested it, I think I did while falling asleep and watching a video lol, but I really recommend Sense8 if you guys have room for another show. You would both love Lito's story in it... a famous Mexican actor who's trying to hide being gay... I still can't help but feel BIG feels every damn time I see his story. Also. He's pretty gorgous.
I always find movies like these interesting, especially as someone who deeply misses the 90s in a lot of ways. Obviously, we've made a lot of strides in a positive direction on many things since then, but I miss the music, the style, an the risk taking. A movie like this was seen as incredibly progressive for its time, casting a big name comedian like Robin Williams as one of the lead actors and as part of a gay couple. Just that alone was something you almost never saw. The only other American movie I can remember that put that issue front and centre was the Kevin Kline movie In And Out, which I have very mixed feelings about. After doing Mrs. Doubtfire in 1993, where Robin basically played a man in drag, I remember this being pretty controversial. By today's standards, though, I can see where some people would find the stereotypes and over the top acting a bit counterproductive. I'm also not sure how I feel about the way Gene Hackman's character was handled. He's a Republican homophobe and Robin and Nathan Lane basically have to deal with his bigotry for the sake of their son. I do think the payoff with Hackman being forced to escape in drag is poetic justice for that character. I'm straight, but I know what it's like to have to fight to be who you are.
I remember watching this with my boyfriend and laughing our asses off. One of the few fond memories i have from that relationship. I think Albert was going for a Barbera Bush look when the Keeleys visited. It's sad to say that the conservative senator Keeley would be a moderate these days. The Republicans are much more extreme now.
One of my all time favorite comedies! Nathan Lane has gone on record that when interviewers would try and bring up his sexuality (a topic he was not willing to open up about in the 90's) Robin Williams would jump in and change the subject with a joke. Everyone in this film, gay or straight, plays their role perfectly and to this day this movie never fails to crack me up (my family and I quote it often.)
Okay, there is a movie called Friends and Family that I used to watch as a child and if you like the vibes of this you'll love it. The concept, for anyone interested, is that these two gay men are badass bodyguards of a mafia boss and one of the guy's parents plans a surprise trip to come visit them. The parents know that they're together, what they don't know is that they're in the mafia (and the dad works with the FBI). The parents think they run a catering company together. So the guys have to enlist the help of the mafia boss and his whole operation to help them cover it all up and hijinx ensure. There's also an INSANE B-Plot that I won't spoil in case someone decides to watch it. I love that movie and I've always thought it had very similar vibes to the Birdcage. It can never match the star power and sheer talent of Nathan Lane and Robin Williams though.
the musical this is based on the "la cage aux folles", has one of my fav musical numbers in it "I Am What I Am". Discovering that song as a baby queer was such an eye opener for me when I first heard it. I wish they were able to keep even a little bit of the song in this movie. Otherwise, I think they did a fabulous job and getting nathan lane and robin williams together for it was a perfect choice. I think my first two movies for the actors was The Producers (for nathan lane) and Hook (for robin williams, which i can never watch that movie and have dry eyes by the end haha) and have continued to watch their performances ever since. its tragic that we can't get more robin williams, but what a legacy he left! Anyways, I loved your reactions to this movie. I think especially as fellow lgbtqa+ people, I can really see you both feel for the characters. Thanks for watching this one!
OMG I clicked so fast!!!! 🏳️🌈Fabulous channel, fabulous movie!!! Can’t wait to see what you thought! You guys fangirling over Christine Baranski is everything. Legal agreements were necessary for gay couples who were living in committed relationships. In case someone died, the living partner wouldn’t have any rights to anything they built in their life, let alone if they had to make difficult medical decisions. 35:36 Aaack! Your faces when Nathan Lane walked in to meet the parents! 🤣
The Birdcage will forever be one of my favorite Robin Williams movies as a 33 year old straight woman watching this as a child I loved it then and I still love it and so happy you two enjoyed it so much y'all should check out Patch Adams and What Dreams May Come they are also iconic films with Robin love y'all. 💜
So happy you guys watched this!!! It is in my mind one the best comedies of all time. It was my first introduction to gay people and I just love it so much. Your reaction to Val is correct he is so annoying! The way people say the real villain in Devil Wears Prada is the boyfriend is how I feel about Val. Happy Pride Cuties!
Robin Wiliams had a cameo in "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar", released a year before this film. I hope you will react to "Wong Foo" and "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert". Christine Baranski was spectacular in the films "Chicago", "Into the Woods", "Addams Family Vaues", and "Mama Mia". Nathan Lane was also incredible in the musical version of "The Producers".
This is one of my all-time favorite movies! ❤ My kids & I quote it all the time lol 😂 I saw it when it first came out in the movie theater with my mom. I was 32, she was 68. 😅😂 Happy Pride!! 🏳️🌈 Yes, I'm a total lesbian & proud!
I lived on South Beach when this was being filmed & then watched it at the Omni Mall downtown... I loved it... But it wasn't the South Beach I knew and lived on. The one I lived on was much more decadent... And exclusive. Made a comment that as soon as Starbucks shows up, I'm moving... Starbucks showed up and I moved. And I lived on the beach from '92-'99
I know people talk about Nathan Lane and Robin Williams, but Hank Azaria is SOOOOOO UNDERRATED in this!
I hope the boys look him up, he is such a chameleon! From Moe and Apu, phoebe’s boyfriend in friends, Godzilla, he’s in soooo much and so varied.
AGREED
Totally. He steals every scene he's in. Amazing actor. Made me feel so old that the boys didn't know who he was😩🤣
He wasn’t underrated. He stole the show!
his role was made bigger because of how fabulous he is!
Robin Williams was amazing with protecting Nathan lane during the press for this movie because he was not out yet and he kept getting asked about his sexuality. Look up the Oprah interview and he was so good and deflecting uncomfortable questions Oprah asked Nathan.
Yes! I was hoping somebody was going to mention this!
I’ve recently rewatched some old Oprah interviews and my god, the questions she’d ask guests were so cringe
@@antlersnelson2955 Robin was an angel walking the earth, I'm sure of it ❤️😭
Oprah should have never done that. Hindsight 20/20 and I know it's a different.. awareness culture we have now (not sure if it's the right term). But as interviewers, you don't do that. You don't force people to come out, or reveal pregnancies (looking at you Ellen) or talk about past trauma. Awful
@@Qu33nMary444 He was definitely one of our rare national treasures.
I always love the story of how Robin protected Nathan when Oprah went in on him and try and rip the closet door off. He turned it into a bit to get the heat off him.
aww😍
How Robin Williams was so protective of Nathan Lane in real life makes me love this movie even more than I already do. Happy Pride to you both forever beautiful
That Oprah interview was the worst!! He didn't come out until years later and people tried to take that away from him. Robin Williams was a genuine angel ❤
That interview was so precious. What a true friend.
The fact that they were at the wedding means that they accepted the whole family that their daughter was marrying into. If they didn't accept them, they wouldn't have attended the wedding.
Nathan Lane as Ms. Albert is absolutely iconic. I always wanted him to be my mother when I was a kid ❤️
A classic reaction for this classic! Have y'all seen "Too Wong Foo..." Yet? Y'all will LOVE that
Sooooo good! Patrick Swayze is the classiest ❤
Val's request is difficult to understand today or in the 90s. The original play was written in 1973, when many more people were much deeper in the closet and being out was even more dangerous than it is today.
The original French movie is wonderful and worth watching (subtitled not dubbed).
That was the thing. Val's behavior would not have even been acceptable in the when the movie was released. And I did not see anything that ever redeems him.
The fact that they actually went along with it I took as a hint that they must have spoiled the hell out of him and indulged him on everything when he was a kid if they couldn't even bring themselves to draw the line there. It doesn't excuse Val but it explains why he turned out the way he did. Somewhat of a parenting fail by Armand and Al
Thank you. One of the biggest problem I see with younger people watching movies made before they were born is that they don't see the context of time, and judge characters by the standards of the time they live in now.
@@torontomame At the same time, you can say that respect for the people that raised you is multi-generational. Val does not ever show an ounce of love or respect for Albert. He's very cruel. It's one thing to have family members in the closet and another to treat them like the closet isn't enough. I don't think Val even directly speaks to Albert about this. Watching it in 1996, gay people were catching that contempt Val was showing bordered on homophobia.
Truly a new fav!!!! Can’t believe it took us so long to watch this but I’m SO glad we did! Love you forever Robin 🫶🏻❤️
I always felt this movie was the best statement for gay parents. Their son was a happy, healthy, average guy. Yes, he messed up by trying to get his parents to lie about who they are, but he realized in the end that he loved them for it. Like he said at the beginning, he was the only guy in his frat that didn’t come from a broken home. It showcased that gay parents are just as good or better than straight. This movie is also based on the musical La Cage Aux Folles and Nathan Lane wasn’t out yet. Robin Williams helped cover for him in all the interviews because he knew that Nathan was gay but also knew that Nathan didn’t want anyone to know yet. 10/10 would recommend everyone watch.
Wes and Chey.. This movie was mine and my mother's favorite movie. We loved it. We loved watching it together, and celebrating PRIDE. The actors, the comedy, the uplifting message. Today is the 8 year anniversary of my mother's death, and it's been a day of reflecting. I get to close the day out watching this reaction and remembering the beautiful memories with mom. Thanks to you both! 😘🥰❤🧡💛💚💙💜
Omg!!! Sending you lots of love today! The fact that you both shared this beautiful movie says a lot about her and your relationship with her ❤️❤️ love that so much and we’re so glad this timing worked out like this 🤗🥰
My mom and I love this movie too, this one and To Wong Foo.
@@PettyPumpkins Love this THANK YOU! Her favorite line, "Fuck the shrimp!" And she had a little crush on Agador. Happy Pride!!🥰♥
This movie is an annual tradition with my best friend at Pride after we're done at the Parade. ❤❤
Such a quotable movie! “You pierced the toast, so what” “you’re wasting your gum” “I do not wear shoes because they make me fall down”
I think the 'Madonna' bit lives in my head
I made you short?
This movie is a favorite of my family's, and it would be nothing without Nathan Lane!
Originally, they wanted Steve Martin for Armand and Robin to play Albert. But Robin didn't want to keep getting cast as the manic comic relief and wouldn't do it unless he could play Armand. Thank God he got his way!
Look at all the gay icons in this...Christine baranski, calista flockhart and Dianne wiest in drag 🎉🎉
If you like this movie, you should watch the original French comedy that this is based on, "La Cage aux Folles". The French actor who played the drag star, won a César Award, their version of the Oscar.
Tell it. Loved the movie, first saw it in the 80s. You rock, know the history. And, he thought Armond was a chicken hawk, his son, was a chicken, this generation.😋, rayray 🤙✌️✊😎
It was awesome.❤❤❤❤
It is ten times better than this remake.
I'm happy to see you branching out to comedy and drama. Horror is fun, but you guys are so funny, i want to see more.
This and Death Becomes Her were my childhood!!!!❤❤❤
Also, I always thought if you're old enough to get married you're old enough to face your parents.
Watching this movie together was the moment my husband and I fell in love, we were both quoting it the entire time. We’ve been together for over 10 years now ☺️ 🌈
One of the greatest honors in my life was getting to work with Robbin Willams. He was such a kind person and a gentle soul, he will be forever missed.
One of my favorite comedies of all time. I showed it to my mom (I'm gay), who wasn't that interested at first, and she laughed incredibly hard and told me afterwards that this is one of her favorite movies now. That made me happier than I can describe. This movie's so wonderful, Robin Williams and especially Nathan Lane knocked it out of the park.
The line that cracked me up right at the end: "Bob Dole is GORGEOUS!"
So here is some behind the camera tea. Robin was supposed to play Albert, but he was just coming off of Mrs. Doubtfire and did not want to cross dress for a role so soon. When this film came out, Nathan was not out publicly so the press tour was a bit of its own Birdcage. I can't remember what Oprah asked, but it just about let the cat out of the bag. Robin was there and stepped in so masterfully.
This and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert are two of my top ten films. I never get tired of watching them. Saw them both in the cinema as a teenager and I've never laughed so hard in my life.
I'd love it if you beautiful boys reacted to Priscilla. It's such a classic❤
Nathan Lane in this film is the reason i put color and flare into all my outfits
I fell in love with Nathan as an actor from this film
Such a witty and talented man.
"Sweetie, you are wasting your gum." I laugh everytime 😂
The promoting of this movie, Nathan Lane(Albert) was not out as gay and when he and Robin were on Oprah, she kept asking about Nathan's romantic preference which Robin defended Nathan. Proud of Robin
Fun Fact: Most of the songs that the main actors sing were written by the late great Stephen Sondheim. He wrote one original song that was used for the scene with the bubble gum chewing dancer. The other two (the beginning of Starina's number and the dance scene with Christine Baranski and Robin Williams) were songs that were cut from his musicals.
Also, whenever Armand in Interview With the Vampire comes on screen, my wife and I yell, "Armand!" Like Albert does.
Your reaction is a reminder of how far we’ve come. At the time, this WAS a happy ending with closure because no one got beat up, murdered, or sacrificed. I remember seeing this movie in theaters for a second time in upstate NY, and there was no laughing in the audience, just sighs of disgust.
This.
When this came out, we were rooting for Val and Babs to get through the night. Today, Val is the bad guy for putting his family through hell.
I always wanted a series with Albert, Armand, and Agador after watching this, but sadly no.
To be fair the original play this is based off of was back in 1973, when coming out was far more dangerous
Also people overlook that because the daughter is 17, she can't marry without parental consent
Which is why Val says it is only for one night, cause after that it won't matter.
@@mckenzie.latham91 Yep, now they're more concerned about the age difference, which makes the young coupling more problematic.
Nathan Lane is one of the only actors that could go toe to toe with Robin Williams in improv. They got so wild, the director, Mike Nichols begged them to do at least one take as written, then they could go wild.
I love this movie, hype for you guys to watch!!!! "Put the pinky down!" "Howdy ma'am" and "F the SHRIMP!" are some of my fave moments! XD
I literally shrieked like Albert when I saw that you're watching this!!! 😂❤ This has been a fave of mine since it first came out (no pun intended) and its so great to see a new generation hate on Val and the dumb senator guy 😂😂😂 Robin, Nathan & Christine are everything though ❤❤❤
Great reaction, loves!
Fun fact: Calista Flockhart (Barbara) was 31 years old when making this movie. 31 playing 18 and she looked amazing!!!!!
YES! one of my all time favorites, Robin and Nathan acting together in this is PERFECTION
right😍
I can see Albert showing all the guests at the wedding reception to photo album he had of Val, showing off stuff like his penmanship award. Could be a good bonding experience between him and the senators wife, baby pictures.
My dad loved this movie when I was a kid. I remember him quoting Hank Azaria's lines, and listening to the Gloria Estefan song in the car. My dad and I aren't close anymore, but I'm glad I have those memories of him with this movie. Happy pride to all my fellow queers!
WES AND CHEY DOING THE BIRDCAGE LET'S GOOOO🎉
I discovered your channel with the "Interview With The Vampire" series reactions and then I saw you post THIS!!! I worked several years in the theatre business, and had a great time running this film back in the day. It was so well-loved, even in my small sleepy town. I had such a fun time watching your reaction! Tears in my eyes from laughing along. Happy Pride month from Florida!
My head cannon is she isn’t actually “not even 18”. The father is just so disconnected and unconcerned with anything other than his political career that he just operates with “my kid is still a kid, if she wasn’t someone would have told me.”
Omgggg yasss I’m so freaking happy to see my two favorite queens doing a reaction to this movie! Thank you loves!!! ❤❤ you have made my week so much better
Don't forget Agador Spartacus! He's my favorite character!
Your mouths agape at 45:43 was priceless. Also, if there were a category for queens who put on lip balm the most during a reaction video you two would win. LOL!
This was actually the first Rated R movie I was allowed to see in theaters. I was 14 at the time so my mom went with me. We are fans of Nathan Lane and Robin Williams. My mom told me that Nathan Lane was the voice of Timon from the Lion King since I recognized his voice. I'll freely admit, I still wasn't TOO familiar with Queer culture yet (I was aware of it by then), so some of the aspects went over my head. While this will never be a fav movie of mine personally, I do think it's a great movie and it did make me laugh.
Edit- Side note, I was raised Catholic, but I was also raised to follow the Golden Rule too- "Love others as I have loved you." One of my mom's friends from HS was gay and she did everything she could to help him out since I never fully 'came out' until he was an adult. I think the reason why my own family was so open to different types of people because our family was judged at one point for being both German and Catholic, so why would we judge others? Plus it's just the right thing to do to treat others with love and kindness.
This and To Wong Foo were FOUNDATIONAL. Would love to see your reaction to that if it's new to you (or even if it's not)!
Never forget Priscilla.
I was 19 and bi and working in a movie theater when this came out. It was groundbreaking. Nathan Lane is precious and must be protected at all costs.
Never watched?!? Like how?! Glad you’ve finally treated yourselves to this classic film!
Commenting during the into but I just know you two will love this movie. It is SOOOO good😊🥰🌈🏳️🌈
Have you guys seen To Wong Foo? Another classic.
If you do To Wong Foo, then Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is also a must.
btw...I'm a 73 year old grandmother and I really enjoyed spending this time with you and seeing your reactions to this wonderful movie. Thank you. Love you...I may have to adopt you both.
The scene with Robin Williams dancing to Madonna and Foster was totally improved...and are we surprised? lol genius! Loved the reactions!!!
You guys should see the original french version Le Cage Aux Faulx...I think is way better than the american version The Bird Cage...
For me and with all due respect to the OG movie, HOW could it be better if this one has RW and the other does not? I totally get your point, but when talking about art (and people , and everything really) better/worse are individual categories subjected to the experiences and feelings we carry. So, even if I don't know, the script is tighter, having a moment to enjoy my dead "tv dad" will always be a better experience, and I would be thinking about him the whole time. There is no technicality that weights more than the love I've had for him since being a child in the nineties, and I think a lot of people feel the same way about him.
@@carlalussini for me is way better...part 1 and 2 of the original were hilarious.... I dont feel the same with the american version....
Yaaaas queens! I'm excited to watch this with yall! Yay! 🎉
Soo many feelings this movie evoked! An iconic film that I can't wait to add it to the collection & revisit! Happy Pride, y'all!
I literally gasped and squealed when I saw this pop up. This movie is absolutely fantastic and I’m so glad you guys did a reaction to it!
right😍 the best
I can’t believe you’re just now watching this movie. Congratulations
Barbara/Barbie was played by Calista Flockhart (who played Ally McBeal on TV). Currently she is Mrs. Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford),
I saw this movie in theatres with my mom. Now I'm getting tickets to see the musical with her. I'm so glad you watched this.
I think Robin was acting like how homophobic parents would act to their son marrying a man as a joke.
You might want to check out the 1978 French original la cage aux folles. When this came out i thought it wasn't up to the original, but I don't know how it has aged. It was a big crossover hit in the States and was instrumental to drag revues like la cage aux faux in Hollywood. My mom used to take us kids there when I was a teen. :)
The French original is better fr
I love this film for the reason that William and Lane are playing the wrong characters. At the time, Williams always played the flamboyant and crazy characters, and Lane was a more buttoned up straight man. Here they are playing opposite what was considered their type, and it worked so well.
OMYGOD. I just LOVE watching the young gays watch this movie.
I LOVE how actually HORRIFIED you are that Val would even DARE.
It's only 20 years or so later that we all kind of realize that while The Senator is an obvious antagonist - Val is actually the VILAIN.
You guys are freaking ADORABLE.
Love from Detroit (and the 90s)
This is a favorite of mine. It shows how important family is. They love their son and they would do anything for him but they also learn lessons along the way about learning to stand up for each other and be honest. This isn’t an alliance thing. Ultimately this is a family issue they are struggling to get through. And gene pack man is a brilliant actor with a great filmography but seeing him in drag cracked me up. 😂 Nathan lane is brilliant as always. He guest stars on a few episodes of modern family as pepper.
Can you do "To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything! Julie Newmar"? That has Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes, and John Leguizamo in drag. RuPaul also makes a cameo, and Stockard Channing is in it as well. Oh and I think Robin Williams makes a small appearance in it too! Uncredited!
This movie is perfection. But honestly. Ppl don’t realise how traumatising it is being Nathan laned in real life. I remember the first Xmas I was with my ex his grandmother was coming over so I was sent away so not to create waves or be have to explained. Thankfully Alex’s sister when asked where I was and he told her said to him. If u ever treat Shane like that again I’m never talking to u. So was nice to have an ally in his family, that would’ve been early 2000s
Need to check out "To Wong Foo" and "Priscilla Queen of the Desert" a great Aussie classic!
I got CHILLS when he said...
It took me 20 years to get here and I'm not going to let some I'd I ot Senator destroy that
WHY 20 years later are we could STILL quote that line.. 😢
That is 100% how John Wayne walked in several of his films, hand position, and everything 😂
And 'John Wayne' was a stage name.
He was born Marion Morrison!
Val isn't the anti-hero. He loves his parents, both of them. His fiance told her conservative Christian parents lies about the lifestyle they lead and he's doing his best to try and cover. He doesn't want his parents to change, he doesn't resent them or anything... neither does the soon-to-be-stepdaughter, but that's where the comedy happens. Trying to make this gay couple seem straight for a night and how difficult that would be, lol. Val isn't an anti-hero, he's a kid that wants to get married that was thrown into a situation he would have never chosen. Robin, Nathan, and Hank do such great jobs I never really even looked at Val too much, but I paid more attention since you guys mentioned him so much.
Nathan Lane's performance could've gotten him an Oscar, or at least a nomination, if the Academy took comedy seriously. And I must point out the missed opportunity to call it your "Gay-treon."
In the waning days of Pride Month 2024, or maybe to get an 11-month head start on Pride Month 2025, you might want to watch and react to Latter Days, a low-budget but awesome film from about two decades ago. Not quite up to Red, White & Royal Blue (can any be?) but still a great romantic film. Still available for free on RUclips.
Baybbees you are not ready for ep 8 on IWTV .... best finale I’ve seen in a while. . Fallout was wonderful... but this one is something above that.
Cant WAIT to see your reactions!!!
♥️
a few things: All the songs in the film you hear 'sung' are by Stephen Sondheim. Also, If you haven't seen Beranski in the show 'Cybil' from the 90s, you are missing LIFE!
This and To Wong Foo were on my "watch constantly as a baby gay" list
Tried Priscilla, Queen of the Desert yet? Oh, and But I'm a Cheerleader is hilarious!
Val and his bride-to-be come across as real bastards for forcing his parents to pretend to be someone else, but I try to forgive them as it is essential to the plot. (The girl is only 17 so I think she can't marry without her parents consent. So I think this deception was supposed to be just this one time after which it won't matter. Also, the two sets of parents may never meet again.)
To be fair, Barbara isn't part of tearing things apart for Albert and Armand: she did lie, but it was on the fly, and things went out of control on the Keeley end very quickly. It's Val who took the wheel in deciding all the changes. I'm fairly sure he and Barbara didn't consult each other on this.
@@melenatorr It is funny, too, that real homophobes often don't see people they know as possibly being queer because they are so "nice and normal." I remember little old ladies who simply couldn't grasp that Librace was, as he flounced his way around his piano. (His whole shtick was to be as flamboyant as possible.) So accepting Albert as the uncle would not have been hard, even despite the pink socks, but again, if so, no movie.
I'm also reminded of Guess Who's Coming To Dinner. The parents of the white girl are having a problem so much so that the engagement might be called off, as Sidney Poitier was going to call it off. This gave the movie lots time to discuss the issue. At the same time, HIS parents were equally shocked and was against it so the audience got to hear that side. But watching it today, I feel a bit resentfulness that the couple would actually not marry. I think of say some wonderful smart-ass actor in the Sidney Poitier role, like Will Smith, saying "well, then, you won't be seeing the grandchildren! Yes, it was good and right for all the discussions but not on the threat of cancelling the marriage. But again, there would have been no movie.
It is so good, however, for Armand to insist he won't change how he looks and then only does it for his son.
This movie is based on a French movie which came out a few years earlier, La Cage aux Folles, which is also quite funny (with English subtitles). I think the Val part felt different but it also was so much earlier, the homophobia itself seemed more "normal."
Yeah, at the end they said something like "why are you going with them?" and it's because she's still 17! I know they wanted more closure, but the senator putting on drag (even to save himself) was really a big step in itself. I mean, some guys would have set the club on fire rather than the horror of wearing lipstick.
"It'll be better without an uncle." How will you feel if you break up your parents, Val?
You two have quickly become one of my favorite channels to watch. I have always loved gay couples as they tend to be very open and upbeat people.
Keep being who you are no matter what anyone says. ❤❤
On a tangent, Nathan Lane has a blink and you’ll miss it but hilarious cameo in ADDAMS FAMILY VALUES.
He was hilarious as the cop. "Who are you? WHAT are you? Who moved the rock?"
This movie is a classic. There's so many stries about how Robin protected Nathan and was his friend. I remember seeing this a bb queer and how much it spoke and how much heart it had.
Every damn time I watch this movie I'm just so happy lol it's like chocolate for the eyeballs and heart. If that even makes sense. But I agree... I guess in the 90s it was considered acceptance in a more passive way. My half brother's much older than me and came out as gay around that time so I always think about what it must have been like for him in the 90s when people were still weird about it. And now I'm queer too... something I laugh about a lot, as my mum (not his parent) was pretty homophobic towards my half bro, but now she has two grown kids who now are also both gay. Life's crazy.
I don't remember if I ever suggested it, I think I did while falling asleep and watching a video lol, but I really recommend Sense8 if you guys have room for another show. You would both love Lito's story in it... a famous Mexican actor who's trying to hide being gay... I still can't help but feel BIG feels every damn time I see his story.
Also. He's pretty gorgous.
I’d forgotten about Albert in Judy’s “We’re a Couple of Swells” costume 😂
I always find movies like these interesting, especially as someone who deeply misses the 90s in a lot of ways. Obviously, we've made a lot of strides in a positive direction on many things since then, but I miss the music, the style, an the risk taking.
A movie like this was seen as incredibly progressive for its time, casting a big name comedian like Robin Williams as one of the lead actors and as part of a gay couple. Just that alone was something you almost never saw. The only other American movie I can remember that put that issue front and centre was the Kevin Kline movie In And Out, which I have very mixed feelings about.
After doing Mrs. Doubtfire in 1993, where Robin basically played a man in drag, I remember this being pretty controversial.
By today's standards, though, I can see where some people would find the stereotypes and over the top acting a bit counterproductive.
I'm also not sure how I feel about the way Gene Hackman's character was handled. He's a Republican homophobe and Robin and Nathan Lane basically have to deal with his bigotry for the sake of their son. I do think the payoff with Hackman being forced to escape in drag is poetic justice for that character. I'm straight, but I know what it's like to have to fight to be who you are.
I remember watching this with my boyfriend and laughing our asses off. One of the few fond memories i have from that relationship.
I think Albert was going for a Barbera Bush look when the Keeleys visited. It's sad to say that the conservative senator Keeley would be a moderate these days. The Republicans are much more extreme now.
PLEEEEASE do the couples costume!!
That would make 2024 worth living!
Heart your faces ♥️
I can watch this movie over and over again
I’m straight as it gets and saw this movie when I was 10. Still love it to this day.
One of my all time favorite comedies! Nathan Lane has gone on record that when interviewers would try and bring up his sexuality (a topic he was not willing to open up about in the 90's) Robin Williams would jump in and change the subject with a joke. Everyone in this film, gay or straight, plays their role perfectly and to this day this movie never fails to crack me up (my family and I quote it often.)
Okay, there is a movie called Friends and Family that I used to watch as a child and if you like the vibes of this you'll love it. The concept, for anyone interested, is that these two gay men are badass bodyguards of a mafia boss and one of the guy's parents plans a surprise trip to come visit them. The parents know that they're together, what they don't know is that they're in the mafia (and the dad works with the FBI). The parents think they run a catering company together. So the guys have to enlist the help of the mafia boss and his whole operation to help them cover it all up and hijinx ensure. There's also an INSANE B-Plot that I won't spoil in case someone decides to watch it. I love that movie and I've always thought it had very similar vibes to the Birdcage. It can never match the star power and sheer talent of Nathan Lane and Robin Williams though.
So glad you guys finally got to watch this legendary film!! And everytime I see this movie I HAVE to listen to Hakuna Matata!🏳️🌈❤️🌈
the musical this is based on the "la cage aux folles", has one of my fav musical numbers in it "I Am What I Am". Discovering that song as a baby queer was such an eye opener for me when I first heard it. I wish they were able to keep even a little bit of the song in this movie. Otherwise, I think they did a fabulous job and getting nathan lane and robin williams together for it was a perfect choice. I think my first two movies for the actors was The Producers (for nathan lane) and Hook (for robin williams, which i can never watch that movie and have dry eyes by the end haha) and have continued to watch their performances ever since. its tragic that we can't get more robin williams, but what a legacy he left! Anyways, I loved your reactions to this movie. I think especially as fellow lgbtqa+ people, I can really see you both feel for the characters. Thanks for watching this one!
OMG I clicked so fast!!!! 🏳️🌈Fabulous channel, fabulous movie!!! Can’t wait to see what you thought!
You guys fangirling over Christine Baranski is everything.
Legal agreements were necessary for gay couples who were living in committed relationships. In case someone died, the living partner wouldn’t have any rights to anything they built in their life, let alone if they had to make difficult medical decisions.
35:36 Aaack! Your faces when Nathan Lane walked in to meet the parents! 🤣
My mom loved this movie growing up and it’s an all timer for me.
This reaction😂😂😂❤❤❤ was everything!!! Been waiting all month for the best queer watch.
This is genuinely one of my favorite movies since I was a kid. My dad practically raised my siblings and I on Robin Williams movies.
The Birdcage will forever be one of my favorite Robin Williams movies as a 33 year old straight woman watching this as a child I loved it then and I still love it and so happy you two enjoyed it so much y'all should check out Patch Adams and What Dreams May Come they are also iconic films with Robin love y'all. 💜
So happy you guys watched this!!! It is in my mind one the best comedies of all time. It was my first introduction to gay people and I just love it so much. Your reaction to Val is correct he is so annoying! The way people say the real villain in Devil Wears Prada is the boyfriend is how I feel about Val. Happy Pride Cuties!
Robin Wiliams had a cameo in "To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar", released a year before this film.
I hope you will react to "Wong Foo" and "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert".
Christine Baranski was spectacular in the films "Chicago", "Into the Woods", "Addams Family Vaues", and "Mama Mia".
Nathan Lane was also incredible in the musical version of "The Producers".
This is one of my all-time favorite movies! ❤ My kids & I quote it all the time lol 😂 I saw it when it first came out in the movie theater with my mom. I was 32, she was 68. 😅😂 Happy Pride!! 🏳️🌈 Yes, I'm a total lesbian & proud!
I lived on South Beach when this was being filmed & then watched it at the Omni Mall downtown... I loved it... But it wasn't the South Beach I knew and lived on. The one I lived on was much more decadent... And exclusive. Made a comment that as soon as Starbucks shows up, I'm moving... Starbucks showed up and I moved. And I lived on the beach from '92-'99
I love this movie. I'm a straight guy but I saw this when I was like 12 in theaters and loved it ever since. Happy Pride!