From the dark and tragic world of 'The Crying Game,' we move on to the frantic and fabulous 1996 comedy 'The Birdcage.' This is an American production, but it isn't an American original; it's an English-language remake of the 1970's French-Italian movie 'La Cage aux Folles', but this version is far better known around the world, not least because of its incredible cast of performers.
Robin Williams gives one of his best-ever performances in the lead role, backed ably by Dianne Wiest, Nathan Lane, Hank Azaria, and Calista Flockhart among others. Those 'others' include Gene Hackman, who appears to be having the time of his life as he performs one scene in full drag. The film is intentionally camp and plays out as a farce, with entertainment guaranteed. It was a smash-hit at the box office and received acclaim from GLAAD for portraying gay characters in a positive light.