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Review

Thirty years after the momentous Stonewall Riots, this rousing historical documentary (and sequel to the 1985 Before Stonewall wonderfully encapsulates the social, political and sexual progress (and difficulties) the gay/lesbian rights movement faced from 1970 to the end of the century. It captures that time's important events including the 1970s when gay men came out of the closet and into the discos where the clone look, sexual liberation and a “it’s party time” attitude prevailed. It also looks at the convergence and conflicts within the women’s feminist and lesbian rights movements; the institution-backed homophobia backlash beginning with Anita Bryant; and the political battles and the eventual election of openly gay and lesbian politicians. Also examined is the schism that developed between gay men and lesbians during the 1970s as well as the AIDS crisis that brought about the metamorphosis, unification and politicization of the gay/lesbian/transgendered factions. The stories are brought to life through archival footage as well as interviews with a venerable who’s who of gay/lesbian leaders including Barbara Gittings, Armistead Maupin, Jewelle Gomez, Dorothy Allison, Barney Frank, Rita Mae Brown, Elizabeth Birch, Gil Gerald, Larry Kramer, Sheila James-Kuehl and Harry Hay. A galvanizing look at the last thirty years of courage, and the resulting struggles, defeats and triumphs – essential history for all gays and lesbians.

 -- Scott Cranin