CLASSIC MOVIE REVIEW: Gay classic THE BOYS IN THE BAND - STEVE HAYES: Tired Old Queen at the Movies
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- Опубликовано: 17 окт 2024
- THE BOYS IN THE BAND
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Classic Movie Review: Mart Crowley’s iconic play about the lives of several gay men in the 1970’s comes alive in William Friedkin’s THE BOYS IN THE BAND (’70). Featuring the brilliant original Broadway cast, its alternately hysterical, funny, sensitive, touching, at times lacerating and ultimately unforgettable. STEVE HAYES: Tired Old Queen at the Movies
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The Boys in the Band perfectly depicts what was the atmosphere of the late 60s and early 70s, with both gays and heterosexuals. I was young, “out,” and living it. However, I confess to being shocked by the movie’s raw accuracy for all to see; not as in shame, but rather in the sense of “this is who we are.” Yes, when mildly chiding a peer we referred to him as “Mary” (although I used the name “Grace”). Our female icons were, indeed, Marlene Dietrich, Bette Davis, and Judy Garland. Mort Crowley’s book, stage play, and the movie, is absolutely replete with clever lines, some of which I still use in my casual conversation to this day. Not as a spoiler, but I think the line “If we could just learn to stop hating ourselves so very, very much . . .” summed up our (at-the-time) belief, so we used humor to soften the harsh reality.
Thanks so much for watching! This film means alot to me.
A gay classic. 📼 I cried when l first saw it on a VHS tape. l found in a used books & record shop in Ft.Lauderdale. 📀 Got the DVD of it now.
@@tonynegron1927
I haven't seen the remake.
Q: Have you seen the Netflix remake?
Opinion?
@@curtisrobinson7962 the original version is still the best.
The Leonard Frye character. My, gosh. The breakdown of Michael at the end. My, gosh.
Great film.
So sad most of them passed from AIDS.
The Emory character, who was straight in life, and his wife took care of the hustler character until his death. Unfortunately, a hustler in life . The first to contract and pass from AIDS .
I didn’t know that. Cliff Gorman and his wife? Wow. Nice.
STEVE HAYES is one the my favorite people I've met IN MY ENTIRE LIFE! Back in the day, we would bartend together at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and he could make the time FLY ! No one is more joyous, funnier, quick-witted, smarter and also kind-hearted. Also, and without overstatement, I think he's maybe seen every movie ever made. He knows his s#!t . Thanks Steve!
Darn it,,Andrew! Now, I'm gonna have to marry you! Thank you for the wonderful comments!! How are you! We always had a ball at those Met gigs! I miss you and hope you are well, happy and safe. Sending you love and hugs. OXOXOX!!! Steve
I didn't realize Steve was gay? Wow!
Really!? I'm going to assume that you've watched ANY of Steve's posts and therefore take your post as humorous sarcasm a la THE BOYS IN THE BAND.
Hahahaha....
@@andrewpalmer6167 I was just having some fun with ya. STEVE H. is a human computer when it comes to film and stage.
The Delbert Botts monologue Emory delivers during the truth game.... breaks your heart, "Mary, it takes a fairy to make something pretty.." One of my all time favorite films about gay life. Sad to see how many were taken away by "The Big A"... In my 1980's agency days...I worked briefly with Reuben Greene (Bernard), and he was always enormously kind, gracious, and soft spoken - And a superb actor. Thanks, Steve for this one..it's a gift...
Thank you so much!
Thank you, Steve, and Happy Pride to You, Johnny, and All.
As a Closeted High School Senior in 1970, this was the first movie I went to alone. Aware of it’s theme, there was nobody I could share it with. Indeed, understanding our Gay History is so important, but so many of Today’s Generation can hardly fathom the oppression, shame, and dare I say self loathing of those Stonewall years.
There was So Much Joy as well, and I Cherish those from that Revolutionary Time, many of whom perished during the early AIDS Epidemic, including many from this cast.
I highly recommend the Documentary “Making The Boys” by Crayton Robey, which chronicles the journey from Play to Screen, and all those associated with it.
Like this Poignant Film, always in Our Hearts
skyavalanche Wonderful comment! Happy Pride!
Scott aka bluefriend62 Much Appreciation for your Special Acknowledgement. Hug from LA
Thanks so much!
I loved this movie. I remember having seen it in NY a thousand years ago (before I came out), and feeling as if, somehow, it empowered me. Being gay at the time was still considered a crime and a mental illness, but when I left the theater, I felt invincible.
Me too!
NOTHING in that movie is empowering. NOTHING.
This film was a revelation for me. I love every second of it. I connected so much with the characters even though they lived and loved decades before me.
If nothing else, this scathingly brilliant film answered a question that my film-loving Mom would not: regarding a character in Suddenly Last Summer.
Thank you, Steve and Johhny for bringing shimmering moments into our erstwhile humdrum lives.
Revolution Complete!
what question couldnt your mother answer?
assuming she had all the answers
Jade Zee . . . What happened to Sebastian Venable. When the lasagna was served at the party, one of the guests called it Sebastian Venable.
"Sebastian Venable" is the central character (unseen) in Tennessee Williams' play, "Suddenly Last Summer." The character is a gay poet who uses his mother "Violet" (played by Katherine Hepburn in the movie), and when she gets too old, cousin (played by Elizabeth Taylor in the movie) to lure sexual partners. Sebastian is ultimately murdered and devoured by a mob of men...ergo the reference to Sebastian Venable as the evening meal.
Ever since seeing this movie 1000 years ago, I've never been able to hear "Heat Wave" without thinking of this movie.
I love it and I love the version of "Anything Goes" by Harper's Bazarre at =during the credits. Perfectly captures the time period for me.
R.I.P. William Friedkin
What a fantastic stage-to-screen transition!
I think so too. I also think it's his best film.
He said it's one of his only films he can rewatch. @@STEVEHAYESTOQ
Mart Crowley is from my Southern hometown .... his family owned a pool hall on the main drag downtown. They served the BEST chili dogs!
As a nice, proper, young Southern girl, I got my chili dogs to go because nice, proper, young Southern girls didn’t go into pool halls. 😌
Because nice girls didn't go into a poolhall?
I thought because: nice girls weren't seen in public putting a chilli dog in their mouth.
True story.
Oh, I am so embarrassed of myself.
@@curtisrobinson7962
I didn’t eat my lunch in public, but rather in the break room where I was employed……
So ahead of its time. Would loved to seen it on the stage.
Me too!!! Kenneth nelson should have been nominated for Best Actor and Leonard Frey Best Supporting. . Stunning Performances.
i recently saw the new production on Broadway and loved it so much...Brilliant theatre and acting was by everyone superb...in the mid-70's i dated ROBERT LA TOURNEAUX, so seeing Charlie Carver play Cowboy, was a wonderful moment for me...i had the chance to tell Charlie at the stage door that he played Cowboy as sweet and sexy as Robert had played it...this is a must see production
when this amazing movie came out in 1970 i was 20 years old and swore i knew men like all those portrayed in the movie...they were all my gay "family" back then warts and all...just like biological families have...nothing has changed...
I LOVE Robert La Tourneaux. I used to see him on Christopher Street in the '70's and nearly fainted.
What an extraordinarily handsome and talented actor Robert La Tourneaux was. Just curious what was he like in real life? I am a fan and wish he had the chance to do more with his acting career.
@@elainealexander7098 Robert was extremely sweet, and all he really wanted in his life was to be taken as an actor that can play any roll...sadly that was not to happen...
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ wow it fascinates me that you saw Robert la tourneaux on christopher street.he fascinates me.i watched boys in the band on youtube in August 2017.a month later I bought a dvd copy.robert la tourneaux just stuck with me.i have a copy of the 40th anniversary of the play.there are one or two photos of him in there.i also own three stills of him from boys in the band.i also own a copy of von Richtofen and brown that he did in 1971.i hope I spelled it right.i get confused on how to spell the name of that movie.i wish his other work was available.he was on that TV soap opera the doctors.i wonder if any episodes he was on still exist.some soap opera episodes of some soap opera do not exist.i saw him on that episode of the tv show the emerald city on youtube.he struck me as caring and intelligent.what a special man he seemed.he deserved better.
Great review. I’ve never understood the hatred for this play/movie-it was so groundbreaking. Viewing it now shows where we were, how far we’ve come, and how far we haven’t. We’re going to see the new Broadway revival next week-can’t wait. Happy Pride, guys! 🌈
As far as I'm concerned the more life changes the more it stays the same.
I see this behavior (depicted in this film) at gay bars today.
Keeping the gay pecking order alive.
Great, Thoughtful review as always! Keep 'em coming, Steve !!
Thanks so much!
In the opening credits just before the recording of "Harpers Bizarre's" interpretation of "Anything Goes" plays, it actually starts with a recording of Cole Porter singing his song which then transitions into the Harpers Bizarre version.
One of my favorite parts of the film, that wonderful version by Harper's Bazarre and the montage through the credits inroducing the various characters. Thanks for watching! Best Wishes; Steve
Such a good thing to rewatch - have been re-watching your posts during this pandemic. Your enthusiasm and love of film is so beautiful. Thanks.
Oh Roy, how nice of you to say so. Thank you so mcuh and please keep watching! All My Bes & stay SAFEt; Steve
I had heard about this movie for so many years I finally bought it several years ago. I love the intro with everyone before the party. I thought it was dark and hateful but I liked it. Shocking to learn so many in the cast died of AIDS. Great review and thank you.
Happy Gay Pride month! 🌈 I hope you and Johnny are having a great time!!
As a gay man this movie is very special and still relevant to me! The film is very intense at times, since the playwright had to put various types of men into a single setting, and them going through an assortment of personal crisis and delusions, but it's all true! Today we have reach a point where some of us can live anywhere and be open about our sexuality and live a much fulfilling life as gay men, but there's still many issues the many of us have not overcome as this film illustrates. Some of us are happy as we are, while others are not, I am, but I was lucky with a loving mother and family. The unhappy ones are trying to live a life that can't last forever, youth and sex are part of our lives, but there must come a time to accept the aging process and focus on other ways to occupy our lives. Too many of us are trying too hard to make the party last forever but it can't, and it won't! Is the 50 year old man that gets botox, butt implants and is dressed like a 20 something year old, any different than some of the characters in this movie? Of course not! Seen too many friends breakdown when they realize that all that work to look young is not working, and it's just an illusion!
Interesting and thoughtfully put. Thanks for watching!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ No! Thanks to you, for all the entertainment you've giving us over the years. Wish you had the money and the resources for you to do these videos more often that mean so much to us. Wishing you the best of love and health!!
worth watching over and over again. the ensemble is incredible!
I totaly agree!
We just watched this recently and I was in awe - I had read some bad reviews but had to go check it out. I must say having lived in New York for a few years definitely made it something more relatable for me. I loved it - it was fun and tragic and awesome!
I totally agree!
I'm not gay but I love this movie turning on great line rip Leonard frey
There are not many films that depict humans at their core of self. It is an emotional rollercoaster ride of a film. I re-watch it at least once a year to remind myself how far we've come. Also, it is a stellar artistic achievement in screenplay adaption.
It is also magnificently cast.
For all of it's supposed 'dated-ness' I think that the film is still very relevant. I see lots of myself and many of my friends in these characters. Our local theater did a production of this a few years ago, and I must have gone back 4 times.
Agreed.
The screenplay is like Shakespeare, if Shakespeare had been a gay.
I remember seeing this for the first time. It knocked my socks off. The acting was OFF THE CHART. Very accurate on Gay life in NYC...and to this day I use Mary.
I agree. Kenneth Nelson and Leonad Frey should both have been nominated for Oscars. Perfectly cast and masterful direction. The best thing Friedkin ever did. Steve
I love this film, not simply for its historical significance, but for its brilliance. It's not perfect, at all, and the whole telephone game is contrived melodrama, but the way it portrays a group of gay friends, a "chosen family" assembling and literally allowing themselves to relax, finally, in the safety of a private home, is spot on. I've often thought it's like "Into the Woods," in that it's first act is fun and frivolous, but it's second one is super dark. I would love to see an experiment in which young gays were shown this only up to Harold's entrance (one of the greatest in cinema) and asked their opinions before they get to see the rest. I think the reviews would be very different.
Interesting. Thanks for watching!
The phone conceit probably fares better on stage than on film?
Amazing movie no matter how many times Ive seen it. Its so much better than the remake with Jim Parsons.
One of my favorite films of all time. Haters can hate but it's history, hysterical, heartbreaking and Kenneth Nelson really should have got mor film work. Thanks Steve!!
Thanks! I totally agree, Kenneth nelson should have been nominated. Such a raw, vulnerable performance.
Great review! You summed it up very well. And there’s a lot there to sum up! Such an underrated movie - I think it is brilliant in every respect. I’ll never forget how thrilled I was as a young man hearing Heat Wave for the first time while watching them joyfully rock that kick line! I knew Peter White and Frederick Combs was a dear friend of mine. He was a gifted playwright, acting teacher, and humanitarian. Frederick directed me in his extraordinary play The Children’s Mass which had been co-produced by Sal Mineo in NY. Frederick revived it in LA casting me in the lead role of Dutchie, a comic / tragic drag queen loosely based on Holly Woodlawn. A top theatre experience for me. Frederick held an annual Christmas cocktail party where all attendees brought gifts that were later given to needy children. He was an angel.
He sounds like quite a guy! Also a very good actor. Thank you for sharing your memories. I love the rendition of "Anthing Goes" by Harper's Bazarre during the cerdits. It's light, whimsical and perfect. Best; Steve
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ YES, Frederick really was special. Witty, kind, and as you say a very good actor. I love that rendition of Anything Goes, too! I think that film was my first time hearing it. And to hear it while watching Emory cross the street holding his casserole dish made it all the more delightful!
WATCHED, SO LONG AGO. JUST NEW . LOVED .BROKE MY HEART. SO POIGNANT...THANKS FOR THE MEMOIRS...💗
My pleasure. Steve
Yay! Glad to see you posting! I’d love to hear your take on Gaslight
It's on my list!
The new Broadway version with the all Gay actors brings a whole new feeling to the play.
New interpretations help keep these great works alive. Thanks for watching and please stay SAFE! Best ; Steve
I had to special order this film from the library bc it was so hard to find. Brilliant. And that ending...whew! Harold would have been me at that party just watching everything unfold w catty remarks. He obliterated Michael with just a few calculated words after watching him wreak havoc on everybody. Excellent cast!
Amazing cast and performances! Thanks for watching!
Just like TWELVE ANGRY MEN, the claustrophobic basically one-set scene works superbly in BOYS IN THE BAND...and that is a huge credit to the gifted ensemble of actors involved; only these guys could pull that off. Though I'm pretty sure this was the original cast from the stage play..
Kudos to relating this to TWELVE ANGRY MEN.That is one of my go to movies for insight.The claustrophobia aspect was spot one.Thanks
@@derblae52 Absolutely!
After seeing it on DVD on a larger screen I can’t get over what a beautiful film it is. It’s beautifully photographed, blocked, lit and costumed. It’s now in my top 20 films of all time. I love that “someone left the cake out in the rain” too! 😂😍
I wasn’t so enamored with the remake (wishing they’d have “updated” to the 1990s) but the love was there.
I love this version also, I think it's so relevent because it was filmed with people who were actually living through those times at that time. I don't think it needs to be updated, but should remain a period pice of gay history. Not everything has to be re-made. This generation needs to use their imaginations and write their own stories, with different and relevent takes on the current situtaion, which are just as pertinent. Thanks so much for watching and please stay SAFE! Best; Steve
Did you read the Pauline Kael biography? She absolutely savaged Mart Crowley at a party for writing this play. Beyond all decency. Huh? The dialogue is staggeringly good, the characters riveting, the arc of the play remarkable. She devastated the playwright. Why? God, what a terrible little dwarf-person. A sunt even
Great review but my favorite part is seeing Steve’s eyes light up when talking about New York in the 70’s.
My 20's in '70's Manhattan..." In olden gays a glympse of stocking, was not looked upon as shocking, but now who knows,? Everything Goes!" OXOXO!
LOVE THIS! Love YOU more!
Beautiful analysis. I love hearing from someone who was there in NYC.
I felt that Alan and Michael had been lovers in college and “Justin” was a code they were using because both men had internalized homophobia. Alan was definitely conflicted about loving him.
Yes, I think their relationship was much more complicated than was revealed. I think Michael was in love with Alan and though they might not have consumated it, they werer together constnatly. I had a few relationships like that in my formative years. Being in love with best friends.
There's a line in the play (cut from both film versions) where Donald asks "Do you suppose Justin was lying?" which makes it clear that this has been something thats bothered Michael for a long time about Alan
@@richardperhai8292 There are alot of mysteries about Alan. I think, despite his call to his wife, he's a hopeless closet case. So conflicetd that even if he did come out, his guilt and self-loathing would make him a thorn in someone's side all his life.
@@richardperhai8292 Thanks ! I’ve now seen it five times and have the dvd. Justin was definitely not code and it’s left amazingly ambiguous.
I think Alan was bi curious but was too scared to explore. But again..we aren’t told.
Afterthought: Only, at the very end, Michael says, right before he leaves (for St. Malachy's).."If we..just didn't hate ourselves so much.." I have a wonderful circle of beloved friends. Some of them are gay, some are straight. And from the looks of my tribe, nobody, particularly same sex couple members... is self-hating. That's significant..love and celebrate who you really are. And take your own place, happily..in that rainbow!!!
Brilliant review. Couldn't have done it better. Only wish I could have done the play myself a few years back.
Oh, so do I!!! I always wanted a crack at this!
Excellent review of an iconic film that is also misunderstood and under appreciated. I still love it after all these years, and your review made me want to see it again!
Hooray!
Just discovered your reviews and am enjoying them tremendously -- have you reviewed THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD (1938) or THE COURT JESTER ("The flagon with the dragon...")?
"The vessel with the pessel has the brew which is true!" I've done "Robin Hood"...wait...that didn't come out quite the way I intended. Thanks for watching!
Another incredible review of a classic film. Steve is just as entertaining as the films he presents on this platform! Love the film and love Steve, what can I say? No one does it better! This man deserves his own place on TCM. 🌟🎬❤️🌈⭐️
WELL, ONCE AGAIN ,YOU MADE MY DAY, MY FRIEND! OXOXOX
This review is FABULOUS and a SCREAM!!!!! Love it! The man who played Emory, Cliff Gorman, was straight. He did a FANTASTIC job playing a queen, he FOOLED ME! The line that gets me is when he’s yelling at Cowboy after he complains he fell on his heels doing chin-ups: “You shouldn’t do wear heels when you do chin-ups!” WHAT A LINE, it had me DEAD ON THE FLOOR LAUGHING!!!!!!!
So glad you liked it! Thank you so much for watching. Please push the "LIKE" button. It really helps.
THANK YOU. for the review of this film. I was 3 when this movie first came out, but was lucky enough to catch it one late night on TV here in Canada probably around 1979-80 when I was 12 or 13 when I was just starting to question my attraction for men. Everything in movies and TV was telling me I was sick in my love of other males. This was probably my first time seeing gay men portrayed in so many different ways. Sure, the stereotypical prancing, lisping queen...but also every other type of gay man. Stories from each that were REAL...and for a first time not as a butt of a joke, but telling perspectives, darkness and also joys of real lives of gay men. It was like a LIGHT went off for the very first time I was NOT alone. This movie was the first and has stuck with me so many decades later. I was wary of the Jim Parsons remake recently, but he did it justice. Love both versions.
Not sure if you've reviewed this one as well, but another one that around the same time as seeing Boys in the Band, I saw late night when I was about 12 that left an impact on me. Love Rue in this as well as Gil Gerard (before his Buck Rogers fame). ruclips.net/video/ehf7-xFQtbc/видео.html
I'm relieved. You could have said; " You should be on stage...there's one leaving in half an hour." LOL!
I just watched the movie... it was EXCELLENT !!! Great dialogue and acting. I had no idea this was done by Friedkin of The Exorcist fame. The man knows "intensity". You don't have to be gay to appreciate this movie. I'm not and I loved it. Thanks Steve, you look marvelous !!!
Friedkin was str8 and he hit a home run.
Thanks so much!
Whether you hate it or love it (I love it), you cannot deny the importance of this movie or its sheer brilliance. Maybe the writing is forced at times, but the acting (Leonard Frey! Kenneth Nelson!!) and direction are wonderful. Sadly, the Broadway revival failed to hit on all cylinders, except for Robin deJesus (a very different Emory from Cliff Gorman) and Andrew Rannells (as Larry). People who hate this movie must understand that it reflects life as some gay men lived it (my brother, for example, WAS Emory to the letter), and the play shows the price of the closet better than any other work in the gay canon that I know of. Its one set and lighting-dependent mood is the perfect metaphor for the pressure inside the crucible before the gay rights movement began, and the movie continues to remind us why coming out matters. Like it or hate it as you wish, but watch it and know it. Thanks, Steve.
Perfectly put. Thanks so much!
I have seen this play on Broadway, but not the film. Your review makes me want to watch it. I am happy that such internalized hatred isn't the norm now.
Yes, but...there's always lots of outside hatred to go around, so don't get too comfortable. Thanks for watching; Steve
Amazing - you are a so great at this and Happy Pride!
Thanks!
It's interesting seeing gay themed films before the AIDS crisis.. one of the last was also directed by Freidkin, Cruising...would love to see a review....officially a tired old queen here...lol...
From one TOQ to another, thanks for watching,
Steve is Magnificent.
Leonard Frey was a Stupendous Actor. RIP
The actors are all Wonderful.
Great Script.
Thank you! I think the scrpit is marvelous and the casting so right! Kenneth Nelson blew me away. Steve
I have never seen it, it always seemed to be so vicious and cruel, but now I will. Thanks for another great review!
Thank you for finding the joy in this - there was much and I deeply appreciated it as well as the deeper struggles. It helped me become the man I am.
Thanks for watching!
Yes Steve. Integral part of our history. Every ones great. Leonard Frye. Fabulous. Love Ruben so so boyishly handsome
Naively I thought this movie was about gay "boys" in some sort of a band when I was younger. Sonny & Cher referenced the movie in one of their opening jokes. I finally saw the movie about 3 years ago and REALLY liked it. I was mostly impressed how ahead of it's time it was - it didn't felt like 1970 gay dialogue! It's now part of my movie collection.
I love this one and the performances are terrific!
Hey Steve...
Not sure if you noticed, but the IMdB updated Reuben Greene's page, indicating that he passed away back in Feb 2012.
I wonder if that update was somehow related to Peter White's recent death.
That just leaves Larry Luckinbill (Hank), as the last "Boy..."
Probably right. God Bless 'em all!
About time you got around to this one, Steve! Thanks for reviewing and reminding us all of the way we were. And still are, to some degree or other.
Thanks for watching!
GREAT intro to this seminal movie - thanks
Thank so much!
Thank you...Loved this movie when I saw it - I was 11when it came out - saw it in the later 70's ..Im sure you' ve seen the broadway version recently...
About the movie-- BOYS IN THE BAND has been for many years a dividing line kind of movie. People, esp. gay men, fall into 2 groups. They think it's too mean, too angry, too flamboyant to be a real example of gay life. Or they see it as either spot-on and valid for a certain urban homosexual of its time or at least a theatricalized heightened version. I wonder if the new Broadway revival will tip the balance toward the latter.
Yeah, pretty much. I think they made some deletions in the script in the modern Broadway production, and of course the director and actors can together make different choices and change a play a lot while saying the same lines. Anyway, it was set at the time, it worked, and the not mostly gay appearing audience loved it. But of course the attitudes about gay people among the larger population have very much changed outside of a lot of the hard core Trumpster types since then. I think maybe the meaner phone game part was less self destructive seeming than in the film. Anyway, it's over.
Pauline Kael's review in THE NEW YORKER said it was like THE WOMEN with the cast from an air force movie!
Leonard Frey had a good role in the movie of FIDDLER ON THE ROOF as Motl the mousy tailor.
One of my all-time favorites! Thanks for the review!
My pleasure!
Just love Leonard Frey; what a versatile actor. This role is so different from Motel the tailor. Recently saw him in an episode the The Mary Tyler Moore Show and he was hilarious. Keith Prentiss was so handsome and sexy. He was quite good in this (as were all the actors); so much better than he was in Dark Shadows. The one redeeming thing in that role was that he got to wear those tight pants that upper class men wore in the mid-19th century.
My favorite performance is Kenneth Nelson. I think it's the equivalent to Elizabeth Taylor iin " Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?" Simpy astounding! The whole cast is so fanatstic. I actually got to meet Lawrence Luckinbill, but was too nervous to ask about "Boys". A missed opportunity! Steve
Great play& great film. Last year’s revival was superb it as always your revie wins the SArah Sidons award.
Another great review
Thanks!!
Mart Crowley wrote 'The Boys in The Band' in 1967 and it was on off Broadway by 1968 soon it became a big hit on Broadway. Be sure to watch "The Making of 'The Boys In The Band.' It was on the stage during 1968 and 1969 for the most part and started filming for the movie in 1969 using William Friedkin as its director. Although the film was finished and released in 1970 (which basically still looks like 1969) The film takes place in the summer of 1968 and the clothes and cravats reflect the late 1960s not anything in the 1970s. The look of the 1970s as we know it would still be several years away. Sure in 1970 at 15 I had purple bell bottoms and a flowing Romeo shirt, thanks to 'Romeo and Juliet' 1968. What I'm trying to say It is a late 1960s look at gay life and not a true 1970s look. While they were still filming the Stonewall Riots were starting to take place!
I love your laugh, Steve. I love seeing movies through your eyes. Thank you.
Thanks Albert, you're such a honey!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ That's what they call me: Albert "Honey" Morris. No relation to Honey Bruce.
@@albertmorris5498 I'd heard it was "Honey Pie Morris"...just sayin'.
By the way someone said they loathe this play well I say I love it. With the political climate we're in now times are still difficult! Today HATE is out in the open!
Thank you again, Steve. Another great review. Happy Pride.
Thanks!
Thank you for this review. All young gays should watch this to get an idea of life before their time. Heck, straights would benefit from seeing this, as well.
Totally aree.
While this raw, uncensored film is historical, it uses every gay cliché in the book. But it provides unabashed view of gay life in an oppressed society of that time period. Does it have relevance today? I think younger gays may laugh at the stereotypes and not focus on the inner turmoil and struggles. Interesting historical film well worth persevering as a time capsule. Thanks for another insightful outstanding review. I always look forward to em. Keep 'em coming.
Mike, it uses every gay cliche' in the book because it originated them! it's the book that the gay cliche's came from.
Thanks so much!
Dun't know, but have you seen and heard some young queens at clubs or the gym? They sound like they just stepped out of this film! I'm not talking about plot/content, but the manner of speaking. It hasn't gone away (thankfully!)
A masterpiece
Boys in the Band is in my top ten. The acting is amazing. HARROLD is the best
I thought the acting/pacing in the movie was uneven and almost forced - perhaps from having to stop the flow for camera shot placement, etc. Some of the comments and underlying emotion seemed to come out of nowhere - there was no discernible cause for some of the "effect" that was observable by the audience. I would have liked to have seen more "why" being answered. I saw the film for the first time last month, after hearing about it all my life. I wonder what today's iphone generation would think of it...
I was 10 when this movie was released, so I was quite unaware of it's existence until much later. I saw it once on cable late one night, but it stuck with me. I recently purchased it on DVD and sat down to watch it intently. I found it both entertaining and very interesting from a historical viewpoint. From my perspective, Making Love (1982) was the first mainstream gay film. It was quite a surprise to see that Boys in the Band was. Even though this film has no sex scenes, it certainly holds nothing back otherwise. I gather that the film isn't popular with everyone, but it's become one of my favorites.
I love it and think that it should have gotten alot of nominations! Especially Kenneth Nelson and Leonard Fry.Briliant performances. Thanks for watching and Happy Gay Pride! Steve
@@stevenhayes4063 - I also want to thank you for the review. You saw it back in the day and thankfully, you're still around to give us your thoughts and perspective. You've also proved to be a valuable conduit to classic flims for me. I've seen quite a few in my 61 years, but it's the ones I haven't seen where you're reviews have been most helpful. When it comes to classic film, you're on the caliber of Robert Osborne. Happy Gay Pride to you!
When was it filmed?
You soooo nail every aspect of this brilliant film. Anyone wants to know what it's about, I while refer them here. Thank you.
Thank you so much. I'm very partial to this particular film and feel it's not only still relevent but very important. Thanks so much for watching. Don't for get to subscribe if you haven't already and please push the "LIKE" button. Stay well. Stay SAFE! Best; Steve
I saw this in the 90s as I was just coming out, so I hated it because the stereotypes gave me an uneasy feeling as I wasn't yet comfortable with the gay community. It's back on Broadway and I'm curious if I'd still hate the stereotypes or if I'd embrace it now that I have more perspective.Around the time I saw this, I also saw "The Ritz" which had its stereotypes too but was so damn funny and wasn't so hateful, I preferred that movie.
Great movie, great review. However, I always see Boys in the Band in the laserdisc bins at resale shops. Did gay men primarily own laserdisc players? Maybe I'll get a copy to pop in my player.
William Sauerkraut's production of The Joys of the Sand!
Please tell Johnny to TAKE HIS SHIRT OFF next time he hosts a segment! He's such a tease!
Great review. I'd be curious to hear your opinion of the new movie version on Netflix.
I haven't seen it, howevere, I think that it's important to continually do new productions because it's such an important part of our LGBTQ history. I love "The Boys In The Band"!
I didn't like the new version ,it lacked intensity and bite .It wasn't as mean or nasty as the original or as funny!
OMG my favorite movie of all time
One of mine as well! Thanks for watching! Happy Holidays!Steve & Johnny!
From around the same time, "The Killing of Sister George" - when, Steve, when!!?? Soon, please? My birthday's coming up, hubbie's too!
It's on my "to do" list. Thanks for watching!
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ Kind of assumed it was, just thought I'd give a nudge, thanks for all you do, enjoying these and already watched 'Johnny Guitar' one 3 times in the past week
such a great film ...what an era the 70s were we realy started to become fully ourselves and everything was new for us 70s NY looks incredable as incredable as 70s SANFRAN in a way Steve were watching a lost nirvana the time before the aids monster ..a precious time indeed
I adore this film. And think the acting couldn't possible be any better. My 20's were spent in '70's New York and it was a magical. I love this film because it's New York the way I remember it at that particular time. A bit more dirty, a bit more dangerous and a bit more liberating. Lovely memories. Steve
I saw this originally off Broadway back in the day ! It was such a powerhouse of a play I preferred not to see the film. Having said that I found later generations of gay men unable to accept this premise..In any event it did mirror the 1960s only too well. Your review is excellent and informed, no surprise there....
Lucky you!! I met Larry Luckinbill, nice fellow. I think they did an amazing job with the film and it's one of the best adaptations of a stage play ever. Hitchcock always maintained, and I think he's right, that you don't want to open a filmed play take away from the plot and dialogue. ("Rope", " Dial "M" For Murder") They only opened up "The Boys In The Band" at the begining, during the credits, to introduce the main characters, then kept it in Michael's aprtment where it belonged. Also, to freidkin's credit,he wouldn't let them edit the dialogue for the sake of the sensors. _ ("Sunt!" That's French with a cidilla.") My favorite line. I think that both Kenneth Nelson and Leonard Frey should have been nominated for Oscars and possibly won. Amazing, gut wrentching performances. I think it's such a vital and important work and given the way the goverment is in preparation to once again take away our LGBTQ rights, it's SO pertinent. Thanks , as always for your comments. Hope you are able to keep cool. Best; Steve
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ Once again Steve thank you for your informed and sincere opinion.
@@g_vezz And thank you for yours. Steve
This cast is perfect- they actors in the remake are good- but the original cast makes the play more real a classic
I totally agree.
Is it possible to do a series on those wonderful old character actors of yesteryear. My personal favorite being Arthur Hunnicutt who always was a sidekick and always played the same Character, a grizzled old coot. Just an idea. Love your reviews.
Love him in "The Big Sky", which got him an Oscar nomination and which I intende on doing one of these days.
this film is still spot on.people need to see this
Harold is one of my all time favorite characters
I love both him and Micahel. Wonderful lines! "Turning".
The HALSTON era disco &designer brand NYC.
Always a good job Mr. Danvers
Watching it for the umpteenth time, and watching Steve's review for the third time. THE landmark film in gay history. Must viewing for all of the lavender persuasion. If you haven't seen it, then your gay card should be revoked. Sorry haters, but this is not dated. OK, maybe the scarves were. Gay men today are still dealing with the issues raised in the film 52 years ago. Self-loathing? Sure, only now we call it "internalized homophobia." Anyway, when I first saw it, I could swear that was Ken BERRY as Michael!
Ken Berry!! LOL! I can see the resenblance though. I love it too and think the acting is incredible. Especially by Kenneth Nelson and Leonard Frey. I always had a big crush on Robert La Tourneaux and used to see in the West Village when I first moved to New York in the '70's. A hottie! Best Wishes and many thanks for watching! Steve
@@STEVEHAYESTOQ wow Robert la tourneaux fascinates me.lucky you got to see him in person.
The Boys in The Band, Should be must-see for all interns in The White House/Politics.
"And how are you this evening?"
I'm just fine call you in the morning ?
Yes, he was excellent. And so handsome as well.
Right?
The Boys in the Band as a movie is shocking and problematic to the modern sensitablities of the community. For me, it's when gay men owned their own issues, raw, brutal and sharp. I miss people who were from this time period, so strong, honest and fun. I have had friends from outside the community over to watch this movie, it left them with a huge impression, tons of conversation were had. The movie Bros was the opposite to Boys in the Band in so many ways, my friends and I have spent hours talking about and comparing these two movies.
Like this version so much and you can't beat that original cast. Kenneth nelson should have been up for the Oscar.
Harold was my favorite
Michael was mine. Two brillant performances!!!
It was brilliant but so dark and sad and painful that I could only watch it once.
I watched it after hearing so much about it. I expected to really love it's brilliance, but I ended up hating it's cruelty. Though I will say, it has really stuck with me.