Summer Movie Doldrums: Where Have All the Gay Cowboys Gone?

I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry (July 20)

Inarguably the highest-profile gay-interest movie of the summer, Chuck and Larry is nonetheless about two straight guys, one of whom is lusting after Jessica Biel (granted, if I were a straight guy, I'd be doing the same).

While early reports suggest that the movie carries a message of understanding when it comes to gay relationships, it's pretty pathetic when the film we are left hanging our hopes on is essentially the Soul Man of 2007.

The Simpsons Movie (July 27)

The ever-gay-friendly Simpsons are finally hitting the big screen — the animation is better, the donuts are bigger, and the "D'oh!"s will be in Dolby. The plot is being guarded like the family jewels, but one can imagine that the show's trademark irreverent humor and gay-friendliness will translate to the movie.

Eleven Men Out (TBD)

The star player of Iceland 's top football team causes a stir when he admits to being gay to his teammates — something not exactly commonplace in the macho world of pro sports. Eleven Men Out was nominated for a handful of awards in its native country (including those for best film and supporting actors) and has been an audience favorite overseas and at film fests. A light, feel-good gay comedy stuffed with guys in soccer shorts? Sign us up. Note: This film has been included in prior movie previews due to the release date being bumped back.

Fat Girls (TBD)

Writer/director Ash Christian also stars as Rodney Miller, your typical ostracized gay high schooler, who falls for his drama teacher (played by Tarnation filmmaker Jonathan Caouette). Early reports say this fluffy comedy sidesteps tortured coming-out drama in favor of wacky hijinks, to varying degrees of effectiveness.

The Ten (Aug. 3)

David Wain may be straight, but he makes some of the gay-friendliest comedy out there (check out his brilliant summer camp spoof Wet Hot American Summer for a hilarious example). In this comic telling of the Ten Commandments, expect some gay humor and characters (not to mention a killer ensemble cast).

Stardust (Aug. 10)

While there's likely nothing gay about this big-budget adaptation of Neil Gaiman's delightful fantasy novel, out actor Ian McKellen does provide the narration. And really, Michelle Pfeiffer's turn as an evil witch bent on yanking the heart out of Claire Danes should be the stuff of camp gold (see also: Pfeiffer's wicked turn as the foil in Hairspray — is everything OK, Michelle?).