Proceedings of the 2 nd World Conference on Media and Mass Communication, Vol. 1, 2016, pp. 34-41 Copyright © TIIKM ISSN: 2424-6778 online DOI: https://doi.org/10.17501/medcom.2016.1104 2 nd World Conference on Media and Mass Communication, 21– 22, April 2016, Bangkok, Thailand GAY ISSUES AND THEMES IN PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENT AND MAINSTREAM FILMS * Orville B. Tatcho 1 and Ariel S. Barrias 2 1 University of the Philippines Baguio 2 Philippine Science High School – Ilocos Region Campus Abstract While a lot of film studies look at how gay characters are portrayed or depicted in films, this study aims to identify various gay issues presented in select Philippine gay-themed films. Using critical discourse analysis, the two-fold objective in this paper is addressed by surfacing various gay issues presented in a mix of independent (indie) and mainstream films produced in the Philippines from 1998 to 2013. Gay issues in these films include themes on representation, acceptance, and rights and protection. After uncovering the issues and themes in these gay-themed films, the paper explicates the nuances of indie and mainstream films which could affect the selection of gay issues to be presented, how the issues are presented, and which audience or sectors are catered to. These nuances include differences in modes of production, use of technology, and production techniques. Overall, the political economy of media informs the study on the missing discourses about gay representation, identity and agency. Keywords: gay issues, indie, mainstream INTRODUCTION In spite of their greater visibility and positive contributions, gays have not always been cast in a positive light in Philippine cinema. Their portrayal and representation breed and support gay stereotypes. In the past, there were very few Filipino movies which dealt with the subject of homosexuality. Gay characters are caught up in formulaic narratives in mainstream films which are produced by the major studio system for the mass market. Today, the rise of independent films exploring the topic of homosexuality has opened discussions on whether indie films provide an alternative perspective to mainstream films about the topics of gay identity, issues, and experience. This study aims to critically analyse how gay issues are presented in Philippine cinema or to be more specific, in select indie and mainstream films. The two-fold objective of this paper are a) to uncover gay issues and themes in the films and b) to explicate the nuances of indie and mainstream films which affect the presentation of gay issues and themes. A simple distinction between indie and mainstream films that could be made at this point relates to the economic mode of production—indie films are produced outside the major studio system which sustain mainstream films. Another important phrase that needs definition is “gay issue”. What exactly constitutes a “gay issue”? Gay issues in films refer to “struggles (of homosexuals) that address their otherness or their being different” (p. 157). According to Jamon (2006): “Gay films place the homosexual character at the center of the narrative. Often these films present homosexual issues and struggles that address their “otherness” or their being different. Common conflicts in gay films involve the lack of recognition and acceptance from the society they are in, or the dilemma of whether or not to come out and accept one’s homosexuality.” (p. 157) As such, the gay issues uncovered in this study can be understood in the context of similar themes of otherness, acceptance, and struggle. Corresponding Author: *orvilletatcho@gmail.com