26/02/2026
Vito Russo- co-founder of GLAAD and ACT UP- inspired the Vito Russo Test, created in 2013. To pass the Vito Russo Test, the following must be true:
• The film contains a character that is identifiably le***an, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender.
• That character must not be solely or predominantly defined by their sexual orientation or gender identity. I.E. they are made up of the same sort of unique character traits commonly used to differentiate straight characters from one another.
• The LGBTQ character must be tied into the plot in such a way that their removal would have a significant effect. Meaning they are not there to simply provide colorful commentary, paint urban authenticity, or (perhaps most commonly) set up a punchline. The character should “matter.”
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