: When characters were more overt, they were almost always punished. They were portrayed as villains, sinful loners, or victims who met tragic ends through suicide or accidents.
: There is a growing focus on multi-dimensional characters across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, including transgender and non-binary identities that were virtually erased in older cinema. Perspectives on the Shift old gay vs young movies
“Gay characters ending tragically and gay stories ending unhappily is a well-established trope, if one that appears to be dying something of a death with recent LGBT movies.” Reddit · r/askgaybros · 7 years ago : When characters were more overt, they were
: Because of the Hays Code (1934–1968), filmmakers couldn't show explicit homosexuality. Instead, they used "queer coding"—mannerisms, clothing, or intense friendships that hinted at the truth. filmmakers couldn't show explicit homosexuality. Instead
: Modern hits like Love, Simon and Happiest Season move away from "gay tragedy." Queerness isn't the "problem" to be solved; it's a part of a larger, often joyful, growth process.