The Killing of Sister George (1968)

Comedy / Drama

TW: Abuse, Alcoholism, Sexual Assault

Worth Watching? Yes

Bechdel Test? Pass

Race Bechdel Test? Fail

Major LGBT Tropes: Butch Lesbian, Lipstick Lesbian, Where Everybody Knows Your Flame

Synopsis (from imdb): The life of a soap opera actress begins to unravel as she fears her character will be written out of the series.

My Thoughts: I found the start to be a bit slow, but this film ultimately builds into something really extraordinary. It features a full 5 minute seduction and sex scene that is not exploitative or played for the male gaze. George is, of course, a walking, talking trope who commits sexual assault against nuns, gets wasted all day every day, and abuses and tortures her younger partner endlessly. But Beryl Reid's performance makes you pity her, especially in her final scene.

My Favorite Quotes:

"Look at yourself, you pathetic old dyke!"

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"Not all girls are raving bloody lesbians you know"

"That is a misfortune I'm perfectly well aware of"

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Queer Body Count: 0

Straight Body Count: 0

Total Queer Body Count: 13 (23%)

Total Straight Body Count: 16 (9%)

Queer Sexual Violence Victim Count: 0

Straight Sexual Violence Victim Count: 0

Total Queer Sexual Violence Victim Count: 6 (11%)

Total Straight Sexual Violence Victim Count: 2 (1%)