I've been reading and following this thread, and so far have resisted posting about it as so many very valid and intelligently arguable points have been made.(Along with some mud slinging.) But a thought occurs: if Chris Columbus and the production execs were truly as homophobic as Art2 implies, I think that the trailer and movie would have suffered far more. True homophobia would have resulted in changing the script and making Angel a girl. Period.
Benighted as many in this country still are, this has not happened. While full representation and legal rights under the law HAS to be the ideal we strive for, it begins in the heart. Hearts don't generally change quickly, as much as we'd like them to. Acceptance and love, like hate, have to be taught. I've lived on this earth long enough to have come from a time when certain racial slurs were almost considered "normal", and homosexuality was not mentioned in the mainstream culture at all, except perhaps in derisive whispers. Did it make it right or acceptable? Of course not. The struggle for civil rights for ALL people is an on-going fight.
I find the RENT trailer a positive thing as it will do what it is designed to do - get people who aren't familiar with the show and its story into the theatre, and truthfully, there are many, many people who know nothing about the show. That's where hearts begin to be changed. I think RENT's strength to do this is in the fact that it treats all love as valid and fulfilling not exceptional or shocking. Sorry, if this is long-winded or pompous. It's not intended to be.
"And the postman sighed as he scratched his head, you really rather thought she ought to be dead..."
