The Vito Russo Test Improves LGBTQ Representation in Film

In August of this year, big news came out in the world of DC comics: Robin, beloved sidekick to Batman, came out as bisexual.

DC comics even had Robin go out on a date—a big moment for the LGBTQ community and representation in fiction. LGBTQ representation is important in any form of multimedia, but it is more than just character presence that matters. Films that pass the Vito Russo test help improve the way queer characters are perceived in the media. The Vito Russo test, named after GLAAD Organization Co-Founder, is similar to the Bechdel Test, only, instead of analyzing women’s representation in fiction, it analyzes LGBTQ character portrayal. The Vito Russo Test, along with the GLAAD organization, campaigns for the improvement of diversity and inclusion for LGBTQ characters in film. Here are ways to improve LGBTQ character representation in fiction: 

1. LGBTQ Characters Matter 

One aspect a film needs to pass the Vito Russo Test is to present an LGBTQ character with defining characteristics. The goal is to develop the character as well as their characters on screen. It sounds simple, but oftentimes, queer characters are stereotyped on screen to “provide colorful commentary, paint urban authenticity, or (perhaps most commonly) set up a punchline.”1 LGBTQ characters are more than just their sexuality, and should have as many qualities and plot points as their co-stars. Another criteria that any film needs to follow to pass the Vito Russo test, is to have the character “matter,” meaning that the character should be “tied into the plot in such a way that their removal would have a significant effect.”2 This means: avoiding tropes like the “gay best friend,” or depicting LGBTQ characters as “depraved” (Thomas from Downton Abbey), “closeted jocks” (Dave Karofsky from Glee), or “psychos” (Suzanne in Orange Is the New Black).3 

2. LGBTQ Characters Are Not “Token” Characters 

A common trope used in movies or TV shows is a “token” character. The term tokenism is defined as when a TV show or movie only gives the “appearance of racial or gender equality.”4 “Token” Black, Asian, Indian, and gay minorities are examples of characters that are often tokenized. “Token” characters are used in order to pass for social inclusiveness, and deflect any claims for discrimination—when, in reality, they do the opposite.

Tokenizing characters feeds into their stereotypes. In fact, one popular Wikipedia page called TV Tropes has made names for common character plot points, such as “Black Dude Dies First” and “Bury Your Gays.” But, representation is slowly but surely improving. For example, TV show, Kim’s Convenience steers clear of stereotypes with character Jung Kim, who “defies the cliche portrayal of Asians as serious and bookish,” by being described as “lighthearted” and a “delinquent.” In another example, the TV show, The Good Place’s character Chidi Anagonye, is described as “a compassionate Nigerian philosophy professor who is deeply invested in academia,” shedding racist stereotypes of Black men.

3. LGBTQ Representation Statistics 

GLAAD Organization’s Studio Responsibility Index is a metric that analyzes the “quantity, quality, and diversity of LGBTQ characters in films released by the eight film studios that had the highest theatrical grosses from films” of that year. Their annual report analyzes the representation of LGBTQ characters in film, while also providing notes and observations for how filmmakers can improve their depictions of LGBTQ characters. For example, in 2020, film Birds of Prey, confirmed Harley Quinn as bisexual, and Pixar movie, Onward, included a “a nice moment of casual inclusion,” yet, the film industry still has a long way to go in LGBTQ representation.8 Films in 2020 reported no transgender characters. The GLAAD Organization’s hope is “to see increased inclusion of LGBTQ characters in films from the major studios,” instead of solely “mid-budget” films.

Robin isn’t the only superhero lead to come out as bisexual this year, the Loki series, streaming on Disney Plus, has confirmed their lead as having dated both men and women. These characters are positive models for youth, because they prove that your sexuality doesn’t limit who you are. A queer friend of mine loves Loki and is thrilled to see an LGBTQ character make the big screen. When audiences are presented with LGBTQ characters, it encourages youth that it is ok to be who you are. Loki is still the funny, witty, and brave character he is—he just happens to be bisexual. We here at Be More are excited to see more of this type of representation in the media!