Before Homosexuals

Before Homosexuals is an absorbing documentary initiated and helmed by John Scagliotti in 2017. Evolving as a prequel to the renowned Scagliotti-directed 1986 documentary, Before Stonewall: The Making of a Gay and Lesbian Community, this documentary seeks to understand the history of homosexuality even farther back in time. It stars a few well-known figures such as Janet Afary, Laetitia Andrieu, and Susan Bonthron. Through their performances and interpretations, Scagliotti aims to present a skilfully crafted view of homosexuality’s profound roots extending back to the distant cultures of the world.

At its heart, Before Homosexuals delves into the complex and intriguing world of same-sex affection through the lenses of history, sociology, and art. The film journeys through time, exploring homosexuality across cultures throughout centuries, in a bid to trace the context and emergence of contemporary identities. While attempting to unravel these captivating layers of social history, it examines several historical periods and societies worldwide, including ancient Rome, Greece, Renaissance Italy, Feudal Japan, and Victorian England. It illuminates the series of transformations that same-sex love has experienced, morphing from being considered sacred in many cultures and epochs to having a demonized and stigmatized existence in modern times.

The movie weaves a meticulous tapestry of knowledge, using a variety of techniques from interviewing historians and scholars such as Janet Afary, to exploring texts, sculptures, paintings, and architectural remnants to decode historical cues and cultural contexts. Afary, a known historian and an expert in sexuality and women's rights, along with cultural scientist Laetitia Andrieu and educator Susan Bonthron, help the audience in navigating through complexities of interpreting history and giving context to seemingly remote practices and societal notions. They propel the narrative forward and enrich it with their perspectives on history and cultural evolution, adding depth to what might otherwise recede into mere facts and figures.

Distinctly, Before Homosexuals emphasizes the malleability of human culture and sexuality. It paints a picture of how societal attitudes towards homosexually have morphed spectacularly over time. From depicting homosexuality as an evident and widely accepted part of societal arrangements in ancient civilizations to the modern-day taboos surrounding it, the examination reveals the ever-evolving societal norms and cultural landscapes. In doing so, it also points to the influence of power dynamics, religion, and colonialism in shaping perceptions around homosexuality.

The film's choice of visuals cleverly parallels its journey through time, employing illustrations, engravings, and historical footage effectively to supplement the narrative. Its cohesion of academic rigor with accessible storytelling leads to an intriguing exploration of the cultural history surrounding humanity's approach to homosexuality.

In many ways, Before Homosexuals is a clarion call for tolerance and understanding. By showing that same-sex affection and love are not inventions of the modern world or a counter-cultural movement, but rather a deeply ingrained aspect of human communities varying over time, it challenges homophobic narratives that devalue queer existence. The gentle and comprehensive unveiling of homosexuality's long trajectory of existence underscores that it isn't a new phenomenon but a fundamental aspect of the human experience.

Despite its historical focus, Before Homosexuals also subtly infuses relevance to contemporary society. While navigating the fertile fields of history, it frequently returns to the present, drawing important connections between past and present attitudes toward homosexuality, urging its audience to reflect and rethink their understandings.

In conclusion, Before Homosexuals is an essential viewing experience, offering an insightful exploration into the acceptance and repression of homosexuality throughout the history of mankind. It is a testament to the enduring presence and influence of diverse sexual orientations in shaping the world as we know it. With its academic grounding, thoughtful narrative, and compelling visuals, the film engages, educates, and enlightens, inviting viewers to delve deeper into understanding the complex and beautiful tapestry of human sexuality.