God & The Gays: Bridging the Gap was, at the time of its original release in 2006, a hallmark documentary about gay Christians– and the reconciliation of both identities. It should go without saying that the 2SLGBTQIA+ movement has come a long way since the film was released, though it is important to note that the piece is very much of its time. The documentary brings visibility to a marginalized and at-risk population on the big screen, and despite the content having aged since its original release, this award-winning film makes for a strong selection for library collections.
A patchwork of interviews comprises this film: self-identifying gay Christians, including seminary students and clergy; family and friends of those lost to suicide, and scholars of the Bible are all included. Major focuses of discussion include scripture related to homosexuality, and how different translations of the Bible over time have impacted its interpreted support or non-support of gay life. Also heavily discussed is whether there is a biological basis for sexual orientation– because many Christian groups stress gayness as a choice, interview subjects contribute their own thoughts on this, representing a surprising range of opinions.
This piece was recognized upon its original release and lauded at film festivals nationwide. These recognitions include the Frameline Film Festival (Official Selection), Cinequest Film Festival (Official Selection), and New Orleans Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (Best Documentary). Viewers received it gratefully; as one reviewer on the Internet Movie Database (IMDB) says, “This movie literally saved my life.”
The film does not rely on a narrator to connect its dots: the interviews speak for themselves. And while more current material has been produced on this topic (Pray Away, 2021), this film stands as a strong early discussion of a topic that, for many, is quite literally a life-or-death reconciliation. For this reason, libraries should consider including this piece in any well-rounded collection.
What public library shelves would this title be on?
This documentary would make a strong selection for open and affirming church libraries as well as supporting educational institutions. Its opportunity for the most impact, though, will likely be on public library shelves, where curious or struggling patrons can access the material freely.
Why should an academic librarian or professor request Public Performance Rights for this film?
Academic librarians who work with religion or theology departments, history departments, counseling, and/or sociology degree programs will see plenty of opportunities to support high school or higher education curricula using this documentary.
What type of library programming could use this title?
This film is a solid jumping-off point for thoughtful discussion in the community. A screening and discussion group– perhaps during Pride Month (June) or Queer History Month (October). This film raises issues that may be difficult to initiate a dialog about, but this film addresses them compassionately and thoughtfully.