In & Out Synopsis: A midwestern teacher questions his sexuality after a former student makes a comment about him at the Academy Awards.
High school teacher Howard Brackett (Kevin Kline) is only a few days away from marrying his long-time girlfriend, Emily (Joan Cusack). When one of his former students wins an Academy Award, he thanks Howard in his acceptance speech and tells the world that Howard inspired him and, oh, is also gay. This is a shock to Emily, the town they live in, and Howard himself, who adamantly denies it.
I have not seen In & Out in a very long time. So long, in fact, that I had mostly forgotten its basics. Watching it again as an adult in 2022 made me curious and unsure how to review it. Given that In & Out was released in 1997, I couldn’t quite figure out if it was outdated and out of touch or a pretty innocuous parody of how Hollywood (and people in general) treated homosexuality back then. The bias Howard faced was so blatant, the jokes so aggressive and stereotypical, that I had to go with parody.
That being said, I found In & Out to be a truly funny, entertaining movie, due mainly to the performances by Kevin Kline and Joan Cusack. Kline is fantastic as Howard, a man struggling with his own sexuality and what that means for both his personal and professional life.
Cusack is so earnest and endearing as his supporting, albeit confused, fiancée. And then, she’s able to finally break free and release all of her pent-up frustration, which is truly a sight to behold. I can see why Cusack earned herself a Supporting Actress nod at the Oscars that year.
This is the second movie in a week that I’ve watched with Wilford Brimley, and I truly enjoyed both he and Debbie Reynolds as Howard’s parents. Tom Selleck appears as Peter, a sleazy entertainment reporter eager to push Howard’s story to the nation to make a name for himself. It’s bizarre to see Tom Selleck without his famous mustache.
That being said, I wasn’t digging his scenes with Howard. Sure, Peter is the voice of reason, trying to help Howard recognize and embrace his sexuality, but I sensed absolutely zero chemistry between the two actors. Maybe Selleck was miscast? I’m not sure what it was, but I always felt a bit meh when he was on screen.
In & Out does its best to strike the right balance between complete satire and meaningful social commentary. It’s very witty in parts and then downright cringeworthy in others. Kline’s bursting, enthusiastic dancing set to I Will Survive while listening to a “How to Be a Man!” audiotape is a highlight, as is his unwavering dedication to all things Barbra Streisand. When the town comes together for Howard’s benefit, the movie delves into a very O’Captain, My Captain! meets I am Spartacus! homage that is as moving as it is amusing.
I think it’s essential to go into this movie understanding that it’s a satire; otherwise, you will just be offended. But in 1997, it was a big deal to bring to light the many ridiculous homophobic biases that happened not only in small-town America but in Hollywood, too. Hell, not much has changed, sadly. But In & Out is a delightful comedy enriched by its performances. If anything, watch for Kevin Kline alone. You won’t be disappointed.
Watched: 03/10/2022
Notable Song: Macho Man by The Village People
