Philadelphia | Critique

Aren’t we too prejudiced about AIDS and homosexuals? Are we ready to accept them as human beings? This may not be a question to be asked in 2010 but what about 1993? These were no better than being criminal, atleast by a section of society that may be labeled as Homophobic. A movie “Philadelphia” asked the question.

Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington are competing lawyers with a graceful respect for each other. Hanks as Andrew Beckett is on his purple patch when he discovers that he is sick. He is fired and now he wants a compensation for the pink slip, not for his being an underperformer but for his employer’s prejudice against AIDS and homosexuals. He meets Joe (Denzel) who is a homophobic. Though initially reluctant, Joe finally decides to take up the case. And the court case is a brilliant example of the caliber of both the artists. Atleast, this is the best one I saw in my life.

The questions and replies followed by discussion, Joe proved that there was definitely a lot more than Andrew’s incompetency attributing to the unceremonious pink slip. His employer Charles Wheeler (portrayed by Jason Robards) is a homophobic and his attitude and decision needs to be replied in appropriate measure as he is setting a wrong example for the entire society. What will court decide… too easy to guess.

Antonio Banderas as Hank’s screen lover did a fine job. So did Jason Robards. But Denzel and Hanks stole the show. Hanks bagged the best actor Oscar.

Some movies make a difference to the entire world around. Philadelphia is one of them. It asked why are we so hypocrite and why so narrow-minded? Homosexuals and HIV+/AIDS patients are human beings and they deserve humane treatment. These people are amongst us only… Don’t drift them into closets.

Written By: Sujoy Ghosh