One of the most obvious stereotypes is that of the gay sissy or overtly feminine depiction of a gay male in cinema. This stereotype still seems to exist today as seen in shows such as Modern Family. Granted I believe homosexuality has become much more accepted in "modern" society as a whole but I still find it hard to find a "straight" acting gay character in any major film roles in Hollywood. I think this "feminine" depiction of a gay man is still strongly rooted in our society. For instance, I am never assumed as gay yet my straight roommate is simply because of the way he dresses. Film as perpetuated this stereotype to such a degree that it becomes almost an unconscious thought of being gay. Even people within the gay community seem to categorize each other in ways that fulfill this stereotype labeling each other "twink" or "bear".
As far as Harvey Feirstein's comment is concerned I disagree with it completely. I think constant negative depictions of gays in films have led to the stereotypes and prejudices that seem to be still rooted in society today. Perhaps it is because I never had to live through that period of history, maybe then I would have a different opinion, but I just can't help but feel that negative visibility is detrimental in the long wrong. I do believe in visibility, trust me, queer characters are people I desperately wish to see in film. I just feel that one good/honest depiction is worth 5 negative depictions. I'm a very patient man and I feel that this cavalier attitude just isn't me.
