Oscar-Nominated Men Who Played Gay Characters in Classic Movies

Gay characters in movies often become subjects of critical acclaim, controversy, or both. Some classic movies featuring these characters become testament to the stirring conflicts and debates arising from presenting LGBT stories. There are also those roles almost paved the way for actors to nab Oscar gold for their striking portrayal of gay men.

Peter Finch in “Sunday Bloody Sunday” (1971)

Peter Finch received an Oscar nomination for Best Actor in the British drama “Sunday Bloody Sunday.” This John Schlesinger film revolves around the intertwined relationship involving a homosexual man, a heterosexual woman, and a bisexual man who alternates between the two. It shows how a Jewish doctor competes for the affection of a free-spirited, young bisexual artist who enjoys a simultaneous relationship with a divorced female recruitment consultant.

Finch’s character — a successful professional stuck in a painful romantic affair — brings up many compelling issues about a non-traditional love triangle setup that the audience can still relate to. Acknowledged as one of the pioneering movies to depict gay sex onscreen, “Sunday Bloody Sunday” examines the choices people make when confronted with emotional desires that take them toward a path of risks and complications. It works as a sympathetic and psychological drama about people’s attitudes, perceptions, and insights on relationships.

James Coco in “Only When I Laugh” (1981)

James Coco was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for “Only When I Laugh.” This Glenn Jordan film follows the life of a successful but alcoholic actress after getting out of rehab. Unfortunately, she goes out of the facility only to find herself confounded by varying degrees of relationship problems with her family and friends. These friends include Coco’s role as Jimmy, a gay actor who indulges in food as an outlet for misery in his career.

This movie adaptation based on Neil Simon’s play “The Gingerbread Lady” is a frothy comedy with a distinct layer of dramatics. It provides the viewers with a fun and riveting story notable for its critically acclaimed acting performances. Interestingly, Coco became the first actor to be nominated for both an Oscar and a Razzie for the same movie performance.

Bruce Davison in “Longtime Companion” (1989)

“Longtime Companion” became a star-making vehicle for TV talent Bruce Davison, who was nominated for Best Actor at the Oscars for his landmark performance. Set in the 1980s, “Longtime Companion” chronicles the first few years of the outbreak of AIDS in the eyes of a group of gay friends in New York. It examines the emergence, impact, and devastation brought about by the illness through touching and immersive depictions of each victim’s slow but inescapable battle with death.

This movie is considered one of the very first features in mainstream cinema to focus on the bitter realities of contracting the disease. Many describe it as a motion picture piece that is able to genuinely put a face to the AIDS epidemic. Davison’s poignant take on his role is best remembered for his striking farewell speech that will likely break anyone’s heart.

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