Coming Out

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.

Coming Out is bold in displaying the unjust treatment of the marginalized group of society--the homosexuals. It is character-driven thus it allows viewers to enter the life and emotions of Mattias, the high school teacher, as he struggles to change his true identity and to repress his sexual desires in order to conform to the norms of the GDR society.

Though it presents a heavy issue, the film's mood is light. There are many entertaining scenes like theatrical plays and bar scenes with gay men in their lavish costumes. The portrayal of the sex scenes are also excellent. They are portrayed in such a manner wherein we can say that it is not just pure lust;that emotions are involved. The dialog is moving and must be given enough attention specially between Mattias and his mother. The film is not only entertaining, it also made me understand and sympathize with the homosexuals.

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.

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.

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.