Comedy
United States of America
The Gay Deceivers is a 1969 comedy film directed by Bruce Kessler. The story follows two straight college friends, Danny and Elliot, who have received their draft notices during the Vietnam War. Desperate to avoid the military service, the duo decides to pretend to be gay, hoping that the recruiting officer would let them go.
The plan backfires when the officer doesn't believe them and demands proof of their homosexuality. Forced to act the part, Danny and Elliot embark on a series of comedic misadventures, including attending a gay bar and pretending to be a couple, and even faking a fight and makeup session in front of the officer.
Despite their efforts, they are eventually caught in the act by their landlord, who informs their families about their supposed homosexuality. The families, shocked and disappointed, attempt to "cure" them by sending them to a psychiatrist. However, the plan fails, and Danny and Elliot are eventually drafted into the army.
The Gay Deceivers was controversial at the time of its release for its portrayal of homosexuality and was criticized for perpetuating stereotypes. However, it has since become a cult classic and is often regarded as an important film in LGBT history.
