Likable Kevin Kline plays high school literature teacher in a small Indiana town. One of his former students, now an actor in Hollywood up for an Oscar thanks him as he is accepting his award. At the end of his speech he announces, "And he's gay!" Howard's fiancee as well as the entire town are astounded and outraged none of them more so than Howard himself. The events of the film unfold as the reactions of the various participants are explored.
Homosexuality is explored with gentle humor. The town is depicted unpatronizingly and with love. All the townspeople have their own lives, and are not overly concerned with Howard's perdicament.
The conclusion is satisfying although the characterization of gays as liking poetry and liking to dance will seem an oversimplification.
Homosexuality is explored with gentle humor. The town is depicted unpatronizingly and with love. All the townspeople have their own lives, and are not overly concerned with Howard's perdicament.
The conclusion is satisfying although the characterization of gays as liking poetry and liking to dance will seem an oversimplification.