A major new film study has revealed that the majority of the UK population believes more needs to be done to create an authentic portrayal of the country’s diverse audiences – including that of lesbians, gays and bisexuals.The independent study undertaken by global research agency, Harris Interactive, on behalf of the UK Film Council, surveyed 4,315 people to uncover their views about the portrayal of diverse groups in film, focussing specifically on those who are into film.
The research highlights a number of stereotypes that are still being perpetuated in film, one of which is sexual behaviour.
A large proportion of the LGB respondents interviewed (70%) believe that film can represent them in a negative light by focusing on them having problems rather than on them being everyday people. Around four in five LGB audiences also feel that gay characters in film too often have sexual orientation as the main trait, or that gay characters are too often depicted as camp (sexual orientation - 80% LGB versus 63% of the general population; depicted as camp – 79% LGB, versus 57% of the general population).
Over three in five (64%) also think that lesbians in films are too often depicted as male sexual fantasies rather than real people.
These figures become even more important when contrasted with how powerful the general population feels the role of film has in changing behaviour. Almost 7 in 10 people (69%) believe that film has the power to tell stories that educate people about real life events, demonstrating that film doesn’t merely entertain and pass the time, but is an important medium to help change ingrained beliefs and stereotypes in society.
While things have improved over the past decade with 71% of the general public claiming that film has become more authentic in its portrayal of diverse groups over the last 10 years, a massive 90% of LGB groups believe there is more work to be done.
An interesting finding from the study also highlights that there is considerable commercial opportunity to be reaped if diverse groups are represented more authentically on film - 51% of LGB audiences say they would watch more films if this was the case.
Mary FitzPatrick, Head of Diversity at the UK Film Council and key sponsor of the research, said: “Film remains one of the most popular pastimes for people in the UK and this research highlights the often overlooked views, opinions and needs of the diverse groups that make up an important part of the film industry’s audience. Film has the ability to change behaviour and shift opinion, so we in the Industry all have a responsibility to ensure that these findings are not ignored.
"The figures speak for themselves in demonstrating there is a real opportunity for the industry to more accurately portray these groups in film. This research will form an important part of the UK Film Council’s legacy and will help make a powerful and dynamic change to the way in which diverse groups are portrayed in film going forward”.
Andrew Pierce, journalist at the Daily Mail and supporter of the research, told PinkPaper.com: “This research demonstrates just how powerful film can be in changing the views of people in society. And what is just as powerful is how it clearly shows that film roles for gay people are helping to perpetuate stereotypes.
“It is essential these findings are given the attention they deserve and that changes are put in place to ensure we include diverse groups in film, which will help to help overcome outmoded and misguided attitudes towards gay people”.
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