gizmomogwai But I'm a Cheerleader is a movie with an intriguing premise, a dissection of the total absurdity of the ex-gay movement and broader issues of the harsh face of religious fundamentalism. It's also the kind of movie bound to become a cult favourite. I say it's intriguing even though I'm a straight male. The comedy is about Megan, a cheerleader baffled when her family and "friends" spring an intervention on her, to address her suspected lesbianism. They have stupid reasons (she's a vegetarian), but it is true she's more interested in the female form than kissing her boyfriend- they're right. Megan is sent to camp designed to "cure" homosexuals, but falls in love with another girl, Graham.The movie, while cute and colourful with a lot of good points, isn't exactly hilarious as a comedy. There are a few snickers here and there, but nothing major. There's also not a lot of eroticism, in spite of being about lesbianism- that's not what this movie is for. Mainly, it's more of a message movie, espousing values of tolerance, honesty, and love. There's some refuting stereotypes, even though it was stereotypes that led to Megan's family correctly detecting she's gay. On a side note, this movie was also subjected to a ridiculous NC-17 rating, for a scene where Megan masturbates- but it's through her clothes, we see *nothing*. This came the same year American Pie (and its trailer) featured a teenage boy having sex with a pie. The double standard is appalling, evidence of either homophobia or a disgust with female pleasure. Ultimately, this movie fell victim to the old attitudes it's trying to address.

MartinHafer I agree with some of the other reviewers who say that "But I'm a Cheerleader" sure had the look of a John Waters film. Part of this, of course, is because Mink Stole (a regular in Waters films) is in this movie. But most is because of the film's extremely non-subtle and cartoony way of dealing with homosexuality and repression.The film is about a high school girl whose family decides (for totally insane reasons) that she's gay and they surprise her by sending her to a camp that vows to 'straighten her out'. Cathy Moriarty runs the place and uses a wide variety of insane techniques to change the kids' sexual orientations--with silly and predictable results.Some potential viewers would not surprisingly be put off by the pro-gay message--though I really think the people who made this film probably couldn't care less about these folks. However, some folks who would embrace the message might also be put off by the sexual tone of the film. While I strongly disagree with the MPAA's original decision to rate the film NC-17, it is still a film that earns an R rating and is not appropriate for all audiences. A good film--just a rather adult one. Subtle it ain't--enjoyable it is.

madcardinal A brilliantly funny lampoon of the ex-gay movement and a heartfelt plea for authentic love for all - not only heterosexuals. "But I'm a Cheerleader" offers some tender moments of awakening love which simultaneously expose the cruel absurdity of religious extremists who think they must wield their anti-gay agenda against everyone within their circle of influence. The agenda involves excessively dogmatic parents sending their gay sons and daughters away to a reprogramming camp (can you say "delusional"?); there the young adults are indoctrinated, lied to and manipulated in ways that would gladden the heart of a "sanitarium" director from the old U.S.S.R.The amazing thing is how funny this movie is. That's quite an achievement considering the issues dealt with. Clea DuVall and Natasha Lyonne give excellent performances and the chemistry that develops between them is sweet and poignant.To be sure, "But I'm a Cheerleader" also pokes fun at gay advocates and the modern gay version of the Underground Railroad; nevertheless, the real-life struggles it addresses couldn't be more serious.Give this triumphant appeal to sanity a chance; gay, bi or straight, watching this film will make you a happier, wiser, more sensible human being and a better American.Great job with this one.

meganweinand Essentially, this movie is a fun time and a good coming-out movie for those young members of the LGBT community, or older ones still trying to figure out their identity. The movie chronicles a group of LGBT teenagers sent to an ex-gay camp by their unacceptable parents. It's good for those struggling with their identity, or perhaps LGBT people just looking for a good laugh. I'm not sure if I can recommend this for the heterosexual community at large, mostly because I reiterate the comment about it being a little campy and at time it seems corny and more like a low-budget film if you're not interested in the subject matter. I found it a little awkward at times, especially with one sex scene of course. So a little corny and a little dorky, but overall the movie is feel-good, funny, and a great commentary for those of the LGBT community. I enjoyed it overall!