Portrayal of a Closeted Gay in Love Simon Movie

Onika Mariel Umayam; Gernie Anne Aurelia; Ray Patrick Bada; Justine Bartolome; Josiah Mari Maglasang; Arwen Faye Palantog; John Christian Rocero; John Lloyd Sanita

doi:10.55927/fjmr.v3i6.9415

Authors

Onika Mariel Umayam Gordon College
Gernie Anne Aurelia Gordon College, Philippines
Ray Patrick Bada Gordon College, Philippines
Justine Bartolome Gordon College, Philippines
Josiah Mari Maglasang Gordon College, Philippines
Arwen Faye Palantog Gordon College, Philippines
John Christian Rocero Gordon College, Philippines
John Lloyd Sanita Gordon College, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55927/fjmr.v3i6.9415

Keywords:

Psychoanalytic Theory, LGBTQIAP Representation, Media Influence, Coming Out, Self-Acceptance

Abstract

The study applied Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory to analyze the experiences of Simon Spier, the closeted gay protagonist of the 2018 film "Love, Simon." Using the concepts of the id, ego, and superego, Simon's internal struggles and external challenges related to his sexual identity, highlighting his fear of being outed, internal conflicts about coming out, and journey towards self-acceptance were examined. The research found that Simon’s portrayal can positively influence viewers’ attitudes towards LGBTQIAP+ individuals by showcasing the complexities of a closeted gay teenager’s life. The study underscored the importance of media in shaping societal perceptions and promoting tolerance, suggesting future research could examine other characters and sexual identities in the novel to understand their impact on readers' views.

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