I wasn't going to post anything but when I saw this video, I couldn't resist. Those who followed my long-running, now defunct Friday feature Know Your LGBT History are aware of my passion for old films and television shows which showed positive (and negative) portrayals of LGBTQ people. The above video falls into that category.
From the YouTube site Golden Age History:
In the glimmering shadows of Golden Age Hollywood, where the glitz of the silver screen often masked darker truths, a surprising number of villains emerged with a complex, coded identity. These characters, shrouded in ambiguity and subtext, offered a glimpse into a world where queerness was hinted at but rarely acknowledged, leaving audiences to decipher the hidden meanings behind their chilling performances. Today, we’ll explore the gayest villains of Golden Age Hollywood films, unearthing the layers of repression and desire that fueled their menacing personas. From Hitchcock’s psychological thrillers to the sharp wit of noir classics, these characters not only challenged societal norms but also created a legacy that resonates with modern viewers. Prepare to uncover the secrets behind these iconic antagonists and the subtext that made them unforgettable.
I've only got one complaint. The video spotlights Addison DeWitt from the movie All About Eve as a coded gay character. However, Eve Harrington (one of the movie's leading characters) would have been a better choice. Several hints were given about her being lesbian (the scene with her roommate and another scene at the end featuring the young lady who snuck into her hotel room.)
