You are here:

Word Is Out: Stories of Some of Our Lives

Name: Word Is Out: Stories of Some of Our Lives
Director: Rob Epstein, Nancy Adair, Peter Adair, Lucy Massie Phenix, Veronica Selver, Andrew Brown
Released: 1977
Duration: 132 min

Representation Score

7.3/10

Good

1977

Director

Rob Epstein, Nancy Adair, Peter Adair, Lucy Massie Phenix, Veronica Selver, Andrew Brown

Runtime

132 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Word Is Out is a groundbreaking documentary that challenges the assumptions of the 1970s by shifting the focus to the self-defined narratives of underrepresented individuals. Through direct interviews, it empowers these subjects to define their own stories and experiences. The film's strength lies in its multi-layered approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of race and sexuality. This perspective offers a nuanced understanding of how different communities face visibility and systemic challenges. Ultimately, the film serves as a powerful tool for visibility, emphasizing the lived experiences of a diverse group of individuals.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Word Is Out: Stories of Some of Our Lives have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

This film focuses on the experiences and choices of LGBTQ+ individuals, highlighting their roles and the complexities of coming out and same-sex relationships.

How does Word Is Out: Stories of Some of Our Lives portray gender?

Excellent

The documentary examines gender as a fluid concept, showcasing various expressions of masculinity and femininity. It challenges traditional gender roles and norms.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Word Is Out: Stories of Some of Our Lives?

Excellent

The film features a range of racial and ethnic identities, avoiding a one-dimensional portrayal of queer experiences. It emphasizes the intersection of race and sexuality.

How does Word Is Out: Stories of Some of Our Lives represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative critiques traditional Western institutions, such as religion and family structures, when they serve as tools of oppression. It prioritizes the personal truths of the interviewees.

Does Word Is Out: Stories of Some of Our Lives include disability representation?

Minimal

There is insufficient information to assess the representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities within this work.

Present on Screen

Offers an in-depth look at non-traditional gender and sexual identities and relationships.
Uses an multi-layered approach to highlight the relationship between race and sexuality.
Prioritizes the personal truths of its subjects over societal norms.

Limited or Absent

Insufficient data to assess the representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

More than two dozen men and women of various backgrounds, ages, and races talk to the camera about being gay or lesbian. Their stories are arranged in loose chronology: early years, fitting in (which for some meant marriage), coming out, establishing adult identities, and reflecting on how things have changed and how things should be.

How are these scores produced? →