Photo: Sony Columbia
In a new study that looks at gay representation on the big screen, GLAAD finds that the seven largest studios failed to bolster the inclusion of LGBT characters.
Of the 102 films released in theaters in 2013 only 17 included characters that identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender. GLAAD reports that most of these portrayals were reduced to cameos or subjects of defamatory remarks.
"The lack of substantial LGBT characters in mainstream film, in addition to the outdated humor and stereotypes suggests large Hollywood studios may be doing more harm than good when it comes to worldwide understanding of the LGBT community," said GLAAD's CEO and President Sarah Kate Ellis. "These studios have the eyes and ears of millions of audience members, and should reflect the true fabric of our society rather than feed into the hatred and prejudice against LGBT people too often seen around the globe."
In the second year of the Studio Responsibility Index, the number of inclusive films increased by three with the addition of Lionsgate Entertainment.
GLAAD also graded each studio, giving failing grades to Paramount and Warner Brothers for offensive portrayals of LGBT characters. Meanwhile, 20th Century Fox, Lionsgate, Universal Pictures, and Walt Disney Studios were deemed "adequate."
Sony Columbia was the first and only studio to receive a "good" score with the most positive characters in its 2013 roster. Passing the test: Battle of the Year and The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones. The latter was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for its inclusion of Magnus Bane (pictured), an openly bisexual warlock.
