Some of My Best Friends Are... (1971)

On the enchanting eve of Christmas 1971, the heart of Manhattan's Greenwich Village beats with celebratory fervor at the Blue Jay, a haven for the gay community. The patrons find solace within its welcoming walls, shedding the facade they often wear in the heteronormative world outside. Here, they embrace their true selves, openly sharing their struggles and dreams, painting vibrant images of their aspirations amidst the clink of glasses and murmurs of laughter. This vibrant tapestry of faces is peppered with intriguing characters, each carrying a story of their own. The Blue Jay, under the warm, watchful eyes of Sadie Holzer, the bar's cook, has become a chosen family for many, a sanctuary from the world outside. But like any family, there are a few discordant notes - individuals whose complexities often rub others the wrong way. Lita Joyce, a seemingly harmless fag hag, conceals a relentless drive to assert her attractiveness to men, causing ripples in the tranquil pond that is the Blue Jay. Her latest conquest, Scott, a pilot, finds himself entranced by Terry, a regular at the bar and a gifted graphic artist. This unexpected love triangle threatens to shatter the peace, as Lita's jealousy simmers beneath her vivacious persona. Similarly, the enigmatic duo of middle-aged Marvin Hocker and young Jim Paine adds an extra layer of intrigue. Marvin's futile attempts to pass Jim off as his nephew fool no one, as it is evident that Jim is a gay-for-pay hustler, and Marvin is his latest benefactor, with plans to whisk him away to Rome for the holidays. As the festivities unfold, each man harbors a glimmering hope that this magical night may bring their dreams closer to reality. Yet, they are all too aware of the inevitable dawn, the end of the evening that will once again usher them back into a world that might not be as accepting as the Blue Jay. Although the echoes of the Stonewall riots still linger and the world outside is far from a utopia of acceptance and equality, within the warm embrace of the Blue Jay, the times are indeed a-changin'. Christmas Eve at the Blue Jay is a poignant reminder of the dreams, desires, and resilience that bind this vibrant community together.

Some of My Best Friends Are... is a drama movie featuring Fannie Flagg and directed by Mervyn Nelson.

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