The Birdcage could’ve gone wrong in so many ways. It could’ve mocked the minorities it centered in the film, or insensitively made light of heavy issues. But with Mike Nichols (The Graduate) and Elaine May (The Heartbreak Kid) at the helm, and with improv legend Robin Williams and theater staple Nathan Lane front and center, The Birdcage becomes a joyously messy romp, as well as a welcome reminder of how far we’ve gone in queer representation. The film is arranged like a play, as per May’s insistence, and so it brings the consistently breathless energy of the stage to the screen. And while it’s not as politically correct by 2020's standard, it’s still surprisingly subversive in how it combats homophobic conservative ideals and stays proud of its colorful cast.
Synopsis
Middle-aged gay life partners, Armand Goldman, a Jewish drag club owner, and Albert, the club's flamboyant star attraction, live in the eclectic community of South Beach and have raised a straight son. Now, their newly engaged son, 20-year-old Val, wants to bring his fiancée, Barbara, and her ultraconservative parents home to meet his family for the first time. By Val's request, Armand pretends to be straight, not Jewish and attempts to hide his relationship with Albert, in order to please Barbara's father, controversial right-wing Republican Sen. Kevin Keeley.
Storyline
Adapted from the 1978 French film La Cage aux Folles, The Birdcage follows night club owner Armand (Robin Williams) and his drag queen partner Albert (Nathan Lane) as they try to hide their identities from their ultra-conservative future in-laws, Senator Kevin Keeley (Gene Hackman) and his wife Louise (Dianne Wiest).
TLDR
It’s honestly a crime how this has gone under the radar. It deserves cult classic status, at least.
What stands out
Robin Williams, of course, who defies expectations by showing restraint and being the straight man (no pun intended).
