"The Celluloid Closet" (book)

"The Celluloid Closet," by Vito Russo, is a comprehensive exploration of how Hollywood films have historically depicted gay, lesbian, and queer characters from the silent era to the late 20th century. The book analyzes the portrayal of sexuality on screen, highlighting themes of repression, coded messages, stereotypes, and societal attitudes reflected in movies. It also examines how these depictions influenced public perceptions of LGBTQ+ individuals and contributed to cultural censorship. Russo’s work combines film analysis with social history, offering insight into the hidden narratives of queerness in Hollywood’s history and the ongoing struggle for authentic representation.