Torch Song Trilogy
Torch Song Trilogy (1988)
“It takes a lot of guts and a helluva sense of humor to live life in Arnold's shoes.”
Synopsis & Story Arc
Official Logline
Arnold Beckoff is looking for love and acceptance, but as a gay man working as a female impersonator in 1970s New York City, neither come easily. After a series of heartaches, Arnold believes he has found the love of his life in Alan, and the couple make plans to adopt. But when tragedy strikes, Arnold's life is shaken to its very core, leading to a confrontation with his overbearing mother, who has never approved of her son's lifestyle.
Complete Cast & Crew Directory
Directing & Screenplay
Cast & Characters
Harvey Fierstein
Harvey Fierstein
as Arnold Beckoff
Matthew Broderick
Matthew Broderick
as Alan Simon
Anne Bancroft
Anne Bancroft
as Ma Beckoff
Brian Kerwin
Brian Kerwin
as Ed Reese
Eddie Castrodad
Eddie Castrodad
as David
Lorry Goldman
Lorry Goldman
as Phil Beckoff
Ken Page
Ken Page
as Murray
Karen Young
Karen Young
as LaurelCharles Pierce
Charles Pierce
as Bertha VenationAxel Lott
Axel Lott
as Marina Del ReyBenji Schulman
Benji Schulman
as Young ArnoldNick Montgomery
Nick Montgomery
as Chorus BoyCinematography & Large-Format Specifications
Cinematographic negative, aspect ratios & laboratory mastering sheet
| Aspect Ratios | 2.39:1 |
|---|---|
| Camera Systems | Arri Alexa LF / Panavision Millennium DXL2 |
| Negative Format | 35mm / 65mm / Digital Master |
| Printed Film Format | 70mm / DCP Master |
| Sound Mix Formats | Dolby AtmosDTS:X5.1 Surround |
| Laboratory / VFX | Technicolor / Double Negative (DNEG) |
| Color Processing | Color (Rec.709 / DCI-P3 Mastering) |
| Official Runtime | 120 min |
Behind The Scenes
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GlobalCineDB Consensus Score
Weighted consensus from 100K+ verified global cinephile ratings
Community Reviews & Discussions (3)
The pipe organ composition from Hans Zimmer at the edge of Gargantua is monumental. Nolan masterfully balances the vast coldness of relativistic astrophysics with the intimate, multidimensional bond of family. A transcendent achievement of cinema.
"Do not go gentle into that good night, Rage, rage against the dying of the light." Michael Caine reciting Dylan Thomas resonates throughout the entire odyssey. Pure cinematic grandeur.