Saving Marriage (2006) User Reviews

A fair accounting of the the issue and circumstance.

[tinymogul · 8/10 · 23 July 2007]

This powerful and beautiful film succeeded on many fronts: the filmmakers provide the audience with a compelling cast of characters, complete with Heroes and Villains, whose lives are impacted in one fashion or another by the issue of Gay Marriage. They also do a nice job fashioning a clear plot for the audience to follow and become emotionally invested in (I was personally moved to tears a number of times during the film) and did a nice job building the drama around the key turning points for the bills under debate.

Where I really think the film succeeds is in making all the people in the film real and three-dimensional, there wasn't a lot of jingoistic talking points being tossed around, just real human drama and real emotion in the discussion of the issues faced by gay men and women...and that will go a long way to softening the hearts and minds of the general public who really doesn't understand the issue (like the lobbyist says in the film...it plants little seeds that can eventually grow large enough to break down the walls in people's minds).

It's easy when taking on a subject like this to show the opposition as cartoon characters and the film tries to show the other side and does a fairly decent job of balancing the argument by not making Gay Marriage opponents too over-the-top or making too much fun of them.

Inspirational

[happytraveller5 · 7/10 · 15 June 2007]

I have always thought of myself as doing my part for LGBT causes but after seeing this and how people dedicate there LIFE to it and how even straight people are dedicating there precious time away from family to do give us what we deserve, I gotta say I felt guilty.

Saving Marriage shows the passion these people have for this 'cause' even though it shouldn't be an issue, it was truly heartfelt and is just what we need in our fight for equality. I hope this gets the chance for distribution because if any doubters watch this and is not moved by the fight, the sadness from the personal stories and dedication from these people then you can't be human.

Peace out, Marcus

Saving Marriage - a rational, objective voice on the issue, finally.

[dokoza · 8/10 · 6 November 2006]

Saving Marriage is what a documentary should be - informative, factual and laced with stories that cater to the emotional side of the audience without excessive drama.

The documentary has taken a volatile issue, which has the potential to be very one-sided, boring and repetitive due to it's association with politics and the law and made it digestible and easy to understand for the general audience. It's not preachy and insular as many documentaries dealing with gay issues are. It's objective and just hearing what some of those politicians had to say for themselves left me speechless.

The interviews were captivating and the storytelling fluid. It hits the social, political and human points of the issue accurately.

This documentary should also be a must-see for any straight married couple - it may make them stop taking their union and each other for granted - after all, it's a right that is not afforded to all.

Excellent Movie

[jonjon-20 · 10/10 · 16 October 2006]

Saving Marriage is an aptly titled movie that chronicles the struggle to legalize Gay Marriage in the state of Massachusets. It portrays not solely the political and legal battles, but the personal issues. For those less familiar with the cause, it gives not only the background but puts faces to the issues. It is respectful to those who do not know why gay marriage is such an important goal and educates its audience in a non-threatening manner. As someone who as always been supportive of civil rights issues, it motivated me to want to be more vocal about this cause.

There is one quote from the movie that keeps coming back to me....to paraphrase: it's not really about gay marriage, but an acceptance of gays. This movie chronicles legalities, but in essence it is about accepting gay people as equal citizens with equal rights. As a heterosexual, I need to get over my learned prejudices -- we all have prejudices -- get rid of knee-jerk responses, listen and learn from others.

This movie is an attempt to make the world a better place. Well worth my time and yours!

if you don't know why gay marriage is about survival- see this.

[stumaddux · 10/10 · 23 October 2006]

I saw this film and I was so blown away. As a gay man I haven't really been able to see the gay marriage debate beyond, "sure, we should get what they get." But this is a great documentary that totally changed how much I value gay marriage. Besides the message, the storytelling was extremely well done and, you couldn't have asked for a better bad guy in that incumbent that Carl was up against. But that was just one of many things that were well executed. Open minded interviews with BOTH sides of this issue make it crystal clear why gay marriage is crucial to the survival of the gay community- it appears to be far more than a label of equality or simply being fair with financial rights.

Humanizes an often misunderstood, hot-button political issue.

[calvin_callaway · 7/10 · 2 November 2006]

The film humanizes the gay marriage debate, focusing not only on the emotional impact of marriage for individual same-sex couples, but also the under-dog fight faced by local legislators and those in political action committees who have devoted their lives to the issue. Framing same-sex marriage as the next great civil rights challenge, Saving Marriage navigates the long, complicated political and legislative process with a human context, giving a face to a topic that is often eschewed as empty political rhetoric. If the film doesn't convince you of the justness of its cause, it at least offers a means to understand the issues and measure what is at stake for gay couples who seek the rights and validation offered by legally sanctioned marriage.

At least we can talk about it!

[greencardink · 5/10 · 6 November 2008]

This documentary tries to keep an unbiased view about the opinions for and against homosexuality and marriage rights to those who are homosexual.

The common sense of it all however has been plagued with opinions from the religious right and emotional arguments by homosexuals and their sympathizers.

It is illegal for a man and a man to marry, just as it is illegal for a brother and sister to marry. Both groups are not causing any harm, but yet both groups wish to be considered normal with the desire to re-define marriage.

The hypocritical thing is, homosexuals continue to tout "Equality for all" when in actuality its equality for just homosexuals. Other sexual minorities are not being considered, and why wouldn't they if homosexuals are granted the right to be married. Homosexuality is part of a sexual minority, however they are hypocrites. The "Equality for ALL" message basically means that heterosexuals and homosexuals are normal, all other sexual minorities are not.

People need to start using common sense when they argue against homosexuality. Homosexuals look down on pedophiles because of the "ick" factor. The truth is many heterosexuals look down on pedophiles and homosexuals because of the "ick" factor as well.

Is it true to say that homosexuals are bigots against a brother and sister marrying, or for a 16 year old boy to marry his 39 year old teacher (Mary Kay LeTourneau)???? Of course they are, and hence that is the hypocrisy! Marriage has always been about one man, one woman, unrelated and above the age for consent.

Don't fall into the propaganda of "Equality for all" because it is not about the "ALL". Its actually about homosexuals and their battle with their conscious to be counted as normal as heterosexuals.

Saving Marriage - a Must See

[yossiyaniv · 9/10 · 16 October 2006]

Saving Marriage is a moving, emotional documentary on the struggle for civil gay marriage in Massachusetts. More generally it is a film about human rights and hopefully will be seen by a general public, not just the already convinced or the gay community.

If you've ever seen "Eyes on the Prize", a film about the Civil Rights Movement in the 50's and 60's, you will understand the tone and emotional power of "Saving Marriage".

This is not exactly your mainstream action flick, but it really holds your attention. The interviews were riveting. It's really top-notch documentary film making, and, as icing on the cake, illuminates an issue that should be of concern to all Americans who value human rights.

A treasure

[enzedder · 10/10 · 5 June 2007]

I loved this documentary. Our people around the world are entering a new age of equality but there is still a struggle in securing more equality and retaining the gains that we have already made. This film covers that struggle in Massachusetts and documents the great efforts made by so many people in defending their right to be treated as valued and equal human beings. It's easy for an LGBT audience to be drawn into this and feel it personally. Told from a Queer perspective, the film makers have tried to incorporate all points of view in a fair and real way, showing those on both sides of the argument. It puts a human face on same-sex marriage, profiling several weddings and focussing too on some same-sex headed families. From high points when we see both lovely long-term and youthful couples exchanging vows and the election of a gay man to the Massachusetts Parliament, to low points where an elected official of that same government forthrightly denies historical injustices against LGBT people and contemporary realities of abuse, harassment, discrimination and worse, and finishing on the sad reality that bigotry still prevails in much of the American public, a bigotry which could strip same-sex couples of this right, I recommend that everyone with an opinion on same-sex marriage view this.

Best Documentary of the Year

[beeyach13 · 10/10 · 23 July 2007]

Living in Southern California and being a gay man I never really spent much time thinking about not being able to marry my partner or the ramifications of an amendment to any states constitution banning same sex partners. This film made me laugh and cry and made me remember what being an American and gay human being is about which is equal rights for all. If other states can take on this issue it gives hope for places where the rest of us live and is relevant for all gay and straight people who love and know gay people. After time you learn to accept and forget the want to say in front of your loved ones and the world that you are gong to marry the man you love and be able to legally call someone your husband though that is what I call my boyfriend now. Thank you Mike and Doug for putting your heart and soul and time into this project. I hope my partner and I will soon be able to marry here in California and I am now going to be more proactive about making that happen in part due to the inspiration I gained from watching this film.

A Must See

[alassenamos · 10/10 · 24 July 2007]

"Saving Marriage"

A Must See

Amos Lassen and Cinema Pride

I had heard great things about Michael Roth's documentary "Saving Marriage" so when I sat down to watch it last night I was ready for something amazing. This is one of the most powerful and well made documentaries I have ever seen and it is absolutely a must see film for everyone regardless of sexual tendency or political alignment.

When the Commonwealth of Massachusetts became the first state to recognize gay marriage, a constitutional amendment suddenly is presented to take that right away. With that the Massachusetts legislature became a battleground and activists and newcomers found themselves involved in a fierce political war. The future of American gay rights was the prize to be won and it is very, very close. The battle to save gay marriage would change the way people view same-sex relationships and the history of civil rights takes n a new meaning with this fight. The movie is a record of that. This is the movie that will change the way one values gay marriage as it shows why it is an absolute necessity to the our survival as a community.

"Saving Marriage" is moving and highly emotional and it is not just about gay marriage but about the rights of all humans. It is a detailed view of the entire gay marriage issue in Massachusetts and presents both sides of the issue. One of the main things that it does is give a very careful explanation as to the difference between marriage and civil unions. Civil unions are only band-aids for a short term solution, a kind of appeasement and not a term of equality. The message of equality and creating a better life for all is the true values of "Saving Marriage". We are taught that the government is supposed to protect citizen rights and not deny them. I would venture to say that many of us have no idea of how the issue of same-sex marriage came about and this film gives us a time-line of events showing the role of the courts and legislatures. The interviews are enlightening in the way that they explain why politicians voted "yes" or "no" on the amendment but it is even more engrossing to see the process by which an ordinary person, the man on the street, can make difference.

By seeing the first gay marriages in Massachusetts during which the amendments were proposed to shoot down and ban the practice, we are taken on a tour of emotions as both politicians and "little people" fought out the battle for equal rights in the New England legislature. Coming together for a cause such as this shows how laws can be changed, altered or done away with and that we as ordinary Americans can change lives.

I have always considered myself an activist, especially since I moved to Arkansas but after seeing "Saving Marriage", I see how little I have done. Here are people who have devoted their entire beings to bringing about change. I feel so insignificant.

This is also a film that is filled with passion and as you watch you heart fills with pride. I found myself wondering why I have not worked harder in the fight for equality. The beauty and sadness of the personal stories in the film is an extremely moving experience.

Told from a GLBT perspective, the filmmakers incorporate all points of view, showing both sides of the issue. Here we get the human face of the same-sex marriage debate. We see wedding ceremonies, we see same-sex families. We see love. Anyone who claims to be apathetic about what the word "marriage" means as opposed to "civil unions" has to see this film.

As Americans, we are all entitled to the very same rights and privileges without regard to gender, race, creed and sexual identity. This movie will make us realize how important that is. The suspense, emotion and drama in "Saving Marriage" should be a wake up call to all of us who have nothing to advance the way our community lives today. This just one beautiful film that shows us not only how we live, but how we should live. It is one film that everyone, straight, gay, black, white, Jewish, Christian, whatever owes it to himself to see.

Best documentary I have seen on a gay-related issue since "The Times of Harvey Milk"

[lisamo9 · 10/10 · 17 October 2006]

Best documentary I have seen on a gay-related issue since "The Times of Harvey Milk". Very good quality film and sound. Story flows well...keeps you drawn in. The information is presented in a pragmatic way making it easier to understand the politics behind the story, but then the filmmaker delves into individual stories making the topic very personal. His selection of people in the film representing couples and individuals whose lives are effected by this issue is optimal. As a viewer you really feel for them, and they make their story understood even by those who are not directly affected by the gay marriage issue. Very grateful someone took on this historic topic in such a superb way!

Saving Marriage is a must see

[scottrett · 9/10 · 1 November 2006]

The film is powerful from the start, delivering the struggles in the movement for gay marriage. It focuses around the ground breaking legislation that has Massachusetts at the forefront of this generation's civil rights movement. Put into three very tight, well organized beats, the story opens with ground breaking legislation which brings hope for the future, but has a huge uphill battle. Spawning a need for more gay political leaders, the legislation fuels a grassroots movement to obtain a larger political influence which in the third beat, may or may not turn out the way the viewer would expect. From open to close, this 90 minute feature flows well giving insight to the emotional, political and judicial struggles surrounding gay marriage. Whether the viewer's interest is political, religious, personal or educational, Saving Marriage is a must see.

Amazing

[pakkhui · 10/10 · 26 July 2007]

What an amazing film this is. It is possibly the only film I've ever seen which made me feel joyful, sad, angry, hopeful, and inspired all at the same time. I walked away from this film feeling great, and wondering what I can do to help. It is truly amazing to see how far we've come on this issue. I was in Boston while that was all happening, and I'm kicking myself now for not participating in any of the rallies. Now that I'm in LA, and when this happens here, I'll be sure to take part. This certainly will be a popular film in the gay community, and I certainly hope that it will reach out to those who need to see this to understand what we're fighting for.

Make sure the GLBT community aren't the only viewers!

[mufu1 · 10/10 · 5 January 2007]

As a heterosexual female that is involved in protecting the rights of people, I know how hard it's really been for me to display to the other's that are not gay, the importance of how something that you may feel isn't so important and does not affect you, can really affect other people.

This movie has also actually changed how much I value gay marriage! "A right of another human being that should not even be questioned."

It should be viewed by everyone who believes marriage should be between a man and a woman, so please drag one person who isn't interested in seeing the movie, to the movie. It can change the attitude of someone lightly stating the gay marriage debate as, "sure, everyone should get equal rights, but I think they marriage should be between a man and a woman." This movie brings the people on the screen beyond only fighting for equality or financial rights, it really brings out true emotions. I was amazed how my friend talked about it for days after and may even accompany me to the next fund raiser event. Make sure to also see Saints and Sinners, directed by Abigail Honor, another great movie, dealing with gay marriage. Thank you directors, Mike Roth and Jay Henning for bringing this film to us and to the pride festivals!

An important and informative documentary

[mkrupar2000 · 9/10 · 29 March 2007]

As someone who was apathetic about the semantics of "marriage" vs. "civil unions", I found this movie to be very informative and very well done. It made the struggle for marriage rights real, not only for Massachusetts residents, but for the rest of this country. After watching this movie, it all makes sense - as Americans, we are all entitled to the same rights and privileges regardless of our race, creed, gender and sexual identity. That's the bottom line. Yes, the movie comes off as pro gay rights, but as the filmmaker stated after the viewing, the other side was approached, but for the most part, they refused to respond on camera. Now why is that? What do they have to hide? This film puts it all out there. It's about protection of all of our civil rights.

I wish everyone could see this!

[lottiluwho · 10/10 · 17 July 2007]

This documentary manages to both explain a complicated legal process, and tell an emotionally affecting story. I wish everyone could see this, as it has the power to inspire more people who are pro-marriage equality to take action -- and possibly change some hearts and minds on the other side. Though there are plenty of ultra-conservative types who may never be swayed, I think many others could be if they connected a human face to the issue. We see it happen over the course of this film with one Massachusetts legislator in particular, and that effect could be replicated in other states if we all take the time to share our opinions and stories -- and mobilize ourselves into a political force to be reckoned with. Change is coming no matter what, but let's make it happen in our lifetime!

Great movie, very informative

[peacam · 10/10 · 11 November 2006]

Saving Marriage gives an emotional and compelling look into the controversy surrounding same-sex marriage in Massachusetts. This film informs viewers of the struggle it took to achieve that feat, and the fight that know goes on to have it overturned.

Saving Marriage weaves its way through both sides of this political issue in a way that's easy to follow. It also puts a face to this volatile issue, and it makes you confront your own prejudices. If you have an open mind and view this film objectively, you might find yourself changing your opinions towards gay marriage. It's extremely well done and I applaud the filmmakers efforts to tackle this issue head on.

I loved it

[jfish25 · 10/10 · 16 July 2007]

The film is a documentary, but it has so much drama and passion it felt like a feature film. I loved the juxtaposition of the various characters presented. It gave it a real 'cliffhanger' feel, and I also felt like I was there in the middle of the action.

The execution of this film is formidable. With a complex subject such as this, it could have been boiler plate predictable. But instead, it brought so much heart into the mix I felt compelled to participate in the debate from my theater seat. And, humor and love play a big part in the denouement. It's just impeccable.

This film is a moving, authentic look at an issue that should not even be an issue. I'm hoping more people have the opportunity to experience this film and understand the importance of participating in our democracy.

Joanne Fish

"The Personal is political".

[njcronk · 10/10 · 17 November 2006]

I was very moved by the personal stories in the film. The movie had suspense, emotion, music, and drama, which I didn't expect from a political film. I think the movie can be very useful for communities trying to understand the legal process of changing gay marriage laws, and the personal ramifications of the changes themselves. As we left the movie tonight, my husband said, "That was much better than I expected it to be." We were both very impressed by the professionalism of this film. I hope it makes it to the big screens.

I really like documentaries. I would put this one right up with Michael Moore's and Jesus Camp for bringing home an issue in a very personal, and profound way. Great job.

The only small complaint I have about this film is that the scenes with the political election near the end seems to go on too long. I would love to see that edited some more, and then an update on what has happened since. The film needs a more dramatic ending, but 99% of it was stellar film-making, in my book.

I wish them well with this extremely important subject.

Firing On All Cyliners

[JayJLevy · 10/10 · 25 July 2007]

Gay or straight, this film illuminates the emotional undercurrent of the gay marriage issue on many levels. Beyond the political talking points (which are engaging and amusing in and of themselves), the film points to what it means to have the allowance of marriage as a "goal" or "purpose" in a relationship at all ... and how that resonates in a person's life. The film is incredibly well made, beautifully shot, tightly edited/structured ... and just flat out blew me away as a shining example of what intelligent and evocative film-making can be. Everyone should see this film. Especially those who are so vehemently opposed to the issue. Everything is quite fairly laid out ... not overly condemning one way or the other. A wide exposure of this film would create a more productive and human conversation on the topic so we could collectively move forward as a society without such judgment and fear. And this is all coming from a very private, non-politically vocal individual. Congrats to all involved!

Great Work

[luciana1802 · 10/10 · 11 December 2006]

This movie is going to make the world wake up in so many ways. Excellent!!! Everybody should see it! I recommend with all my heart! The prejudice all over the world needs so much more of this kind of knowledge. Here in Brazil I hope it helps to start for sure the fight to assure everybody the same rights, cause we all have the same duties and it is not fair to have this mistake for homosexuals. One day in a near future some people will see how much we struggle to be equal in all matters. Looking back having this work done to help future generations how was hard and tough to change societies and rules created by human beings who use the name of God in vain. I hope tomorrow will be a better place for my son and grandsons. This movie is for the present and the future. Great Work!!! These are some words from a human being touched so deep by this piece of images putted together to make history come through and help to make everybody understand everybody. Some dream! Uh! However, it can come through anytime we just need to want. As Jesus said everyone should love your brothers and sisters cause we all are! Truly yours, Lucy from Brazil

Terrific!!

[Nicoleedits-1 · 10/10 · 19 June 2007]

By following the landmark first gay marriages of Massachusettes during which amendments were immediately being proposed to ban the practice, the film "Saving Marriage" literally takes the audience on a roller-coaster of emotions as politicians and people who want their equal rights battle it out in the legislative halls. This film is for everyone--for or against same sex marriage--because it is a ringside view into how banning together for a passionate cause can change laws, and how ordinary Americans can participate in politics that change lives.

The film is extremely moving, educational, inspirational, heartbreaking...Where is the DVD? This film should be in all libraries, all classrooms and all state and federal elected offices.

Excellent documentary and useful educational tool.

[amhtw2003 · 10/10 · 6 June 2007]

I recently saw this film at the Queer Documentary Film Festival in Portland, Oregon. It was one of the highlights of the festival. It is an excellent documentary which captures all the political, social, and very emotional issues surrounding gay/lesbian marriage. It can also be used very effectively as an educational tool when trying to educate straight audiences about this issue and why it has become so important to the gay and lesbian community on all these levels. Even very supportive straight friends do not really understand the depth of this issue. The film is long enough to be very substantive in content but short enough to grab your attention. It really is like a twist and turn mystery. Thank you directors and participants for this wonderful film.

Excellent exploration of a complex subject

[msroth9777 · 10/10 · 18 October 2006]

This comprehensive and moving documentary dealing with the hopes and aspirations of gay and lesbian couples to be able to be legally married raises a lot of issues that straight people have probably never considered. I know I never did. The points raised are very valid and moving, and the need to recognize and acknowledge them becomes very evident. I was very moved by some issues that I had never considered.

As a result of the new insights I have gained from watching this film, my ideas have certainly changed and my previous prejudices have been eliminated. No matter what a person's views may be regarding the issue of homosexual marriage, this film is well worth watching and thinking about. I wholeheartedly recommend it.