There’s been a lot written about the situation for gay people in Russia, with the country becoming increasingly homophobic – or at least the most virulent homophobes feel they have free rein ever since Putin enacted the infamous ‘gay propaganda’ law.
While outwardly banning the ‘promotion’ of anything LGBT in front of minors, the effects have been far reaching, from gay film festival screening being shut down to people being kidnapped and tortured.
However it’s one thing to hear about this from the outside, but now the documentary The War Against Gays In Russia hopes to take us inside the country to see the situation of the ground. Matt Bomer narrates the film, which will air on HBO in the US on October 6th.
The network writes, ‘Homosexuality was legalized in Russia 21 years ago, but gay people in the country have yet to win mainstream acceptance. In fact, attitudes in Russia appear to be moving backwards. With jobs and relationships at risk if their sexual orientation is exposed, most gay Russians remain closeted. As one gay man who lost sight in one eye during a recent unprovoked attack says ruefully, “Hunting season is open…and we are the hunted.”
Hunted: The War Against Gays in Russia features disturbing insider footage of homophobic Russians who, in the name of morality or religion, beat and torment gay people, posting graphic videos of their encounters online with few or no legal repercussions. These vigilantes see homosexuality as related to pedophilia, stating publicly that their justification for violence is protecting Russia’s children.’
Take a look at the trailer below.
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