Coming Out

Though I saw this movie only once, I still remember it and will probably for ever. None of the gay themed films I saw described better the problems and relations in our community. This East Germany film was very important for me, because, back in those times, I saw myself in the role of the main character. Being afraid of being myself and how to deal with it - that is the idea of the film. It wants to say to all of "us", and I would quote here one of my first boyfriends: "No matter what the world thinks about you, do what makes you happy." Really, that is what matters. You and the other one. This movie helped me a lot. And I am not afraid of being myself anymore.

I saw the 1989 West Geman feature "Coming Out" yesterday at the Brisbane Queer Film Festival (2nd June 2007) and I loved it.

It tells a realistic story of an incredibly handsome young high school teacher who is coming to grips with his homosexual tendencies. Philipp is a pleasant and sociable chap - and finds it easy to fall in love with a woman who has held a torch for him since their high school days. However when her best male friend turns out to be his own teenage lover (with a lot of emotional baggage attached), Philipp realises that his passion for men hasn't wained.

The soundtrack music is excellent - and it's refreshing to see a film which doesn't pander to the viewer - you have to pay attention and infer some of the plot, but it all makes perfect sense.

Coming Out is an empowering film - made and set at a time when all sex between men was equally illegal in my home state of Queensland as it was in East Germany. The opening night for "Coming Out" in Berlin was the same night that the Wall came down - that would have been one memorable night for all involved.

I was impressed enough to immediately order the DVD from the USA - it's a great film to share.

A few young people in the audience thought that "Coming Out" was a comedy (which is weird considering the opening detailed scene of a seriously ill young man in hospital having the contents of his stomach pumped). They guffawed at the fashions, the disco music and the dancing - but thankfully they shut up soon enough.

I thought the ending was particularly poignant - especially considering the film's title.

I also enjoyed seeing Charlotte Von Mahlsdorf as the barmaid in the gay club. She was perfect for that part - and it is a fitting tribute to her.

At the very moment the Berlin Wall began to fall in 1989, Heiner Carow's film, "Coming Out," received its premiere.

The fact that this film, produced under the auspices of the state studio DEFA, had such a coincidental unveilng to a historical event, gave it added attention. It is an often interesting tale of a high school teacher coming to grips with his emotions, as he must decide between two loves.

Shot is actual East Berlin locales, the film gains in authenticity. It reportedly was well received in Germany, and enjoyed a respectable US run.

The film tries to kindle an understanding on valuing one's sexual orientation and identity. Many gay people experience critical times when they have to decide who to tell about their sexuality. In making this disclosure they are often fearful of negative reactions, rejection and causing upset and distress to the person they are telling. Sometimes a person may try 'coming out' to a supportive friend as a precursor to talking to parents or partner in order to rehearse their own part and to judge reactions. The film "Coming Out" serves as an eye-opener for those who are anxious and unsure of their own sexual identities. It has relevant issue that encourages me to recognize new perspectives based on realities in the society. It actually stimulates me to think critically. The story has a logical flow and has various twists. Although the story is not new for me (cause I've already read the same story from a book) the execution enables the film to stand out and appear to be revealing. I was not bored watching the whole film. I used to take a nap when I view DEFA films in my film class but I was surprised, this movie kept me awake.

Ultimately this is a difficult movie to judge in relation to content, because it is the only movie from East Germany (and perhaps central Europe) dealing with coming out and homosexuality in a somewhat objective manner. East Germany was, for a communist country, rather liberal (homosexuality wasn't illegal, just ignored; women were an integral part of the work force and society...), yet still communist. I am a bit confused by one writer's comment regarding Bush's oppressive America...I think it rather resembles this movie. But I digress...

Overall, the movie is a success given its origin. No tragedies, but rather a man who struggles with his identity and ultimately accepts himself emotionally as a gay man. I guess it is a period piece as much as 'In and Out' may be considered a period piece. Maybe historical representation would be a better term, in particular with this movie, given the timing of its release. The ending is left rather open, leaving the viewer wondering where Philipp might next end up. Maybe there was supposed to be a sequel? We'll never know, I guess.

And yes, he does look good in a pair of jeans.