'Chuck and Larry' A-Ok

Gay advocacy groups pronounce Sandler’s ‘Chuck and Larry’ A-OK
By Tenley Woodman
Boston Herald Features Reporter

Wednesday, July 11, 2007 - Updated: 04:35 AM EST

Will audiences fall in love with Adam Sandler’s new gay-themed comedy “I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry”?

In the film, opening July 20, Sandler and Kevin James (“King of Queens”) play heterosexual New York City firefighters who pose as a gay couple so they can marry and help James’ character, a widower, provide for his children.

Massachusetts is the only state to date to legalize gay marriage.

Sandler made the film with his fan base, a demographic comprised of teenage to 30-something heterosexual men, squarely in mind, according to Damon Romine, entertainment media director for the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation.

Sandler, known for his frat-boy humor, has included gay characters in such previous films as “The Wedding Singer” and “Big Daddy.” The New Hampshire-raised actor also has a gay family member in a long-term relationship.

While Sandler and Universal sought advice from GLAAD on the topic of same-sex marriage, the advocacy group Marriage Equality reached out to the filmmakers but were not brought into the fold.

“We are optimistic and hope this will shed some light on this issue and not have a potential cheap laugh and negative impact on couples fighting for their lives right now. It does have radical impact on same-sex couples and their families,” said Molly McKay, media director for Marriage Equality.

While the press waits to screen “Chuck & Larry,” Romine has seen the film twice with sample audiences.

“Through this disarming type of comedy, there is this use of stereotypes and slurs, and it holds the mirror up for people to ask, ‘Where does this come from?’ ” Romine said.

“At the end of the day, this is a comedy that actually stresses the importance of family and treating others with dignity and respect. The film actually does send a very strong message.

“I can’t imagine a studio movie being made five years ago that even dealt with marriage equality and discrimination,” he said.