Out of the Closet, Off the Screen: The Life of William Haines (2001)
*** 1/2 (out of 4)
Very good documentary that takes a look at the career and personal life of William Haines. At one time Haines was a very popular silent film star who then made the switch to sound and everything was great. However, he was a homosexual, which was a big no no at the time and the MGM president offered him a deal. Pretend to be straight or get off the lot. Haines selected to stay with the man he loved and his career was over.
Haines story is a very interesting one especially when you consider he did this in the early 1930s. Even today in Hollywood actors hide their sexuality because of the backlash they could receive yet here was someone like Haines who selected the love for his partner over his career. What happened to Haines after show business was just as interesting as historians talk about the importance of his decision. There are quite a few stories about his friendship with Joan Crawford and how she helped Haines several times in his life. If you're not familiar with Haines then this is a very good way to learn his story.