Watch Saving Marriage

Saving Marriage is a 2006 American documentary film directed by John Henning and Mike Roth. The movie is about the struggle of the LGBT community to legalize same-sex marriage in Massachusetts. The documentary captures the events leading up to the 2004 decision of the state's Supreme Judicial Court to legalize same-sex marriage and the efforts of the opposition to overturn it.

The movie features several prominent figures from the LGBT community, including the plaintiffs in the landmark case, Goodridge v. Department of Public Health, which sought to legalize gay marriage in Massachusetts. The documentary shows how the plaintiffs and their legal team, led by lawyers Mary Bonauto and Gary Buseck, prepared for the court battle that would change the course of history.

The movie highlights the emotional struggles of the plaintiffs and their partners as they fight for their right to marry. The documentary includes interviews with the couples, who share their personal stories of discrimination and how they have been affected by the lack of legal recognition of their relationships. These interviews offer a candid and insightful look at the challenges faced by members of the LGBT community in their fight for equal rights.

The movie also features opponents of same-sex marriage, including prominent figures such as Reverend Scott Lively, who started an anti-gay campaign in Massachusetts, and Governor Mitt Romney, who actively campaigned against same-sex marriage. The film explores the reasons behind their opposition and the tactics they employed to try and stop the legalization of gay marriage.

Saving Marriage documents the historic moment when the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court legalized same-sex marriage in the state, making it the first state in the US to do so. The documentary captures the jubilation of the plaintiffs and their supporters as they celebrate the victory, but also the backlash from opponents, who seek to overturn the ruling through a constitutional amendment.

The movie provides a detailed account of the political and legal battle that followed the court's decision. It shows how the opposition mobilized to collect the signatures needed to put a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage on the ballot, and how the LGBT community fought back with their own campaign to preserve their right to marry.

Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers maintain a neutral stance, allowing the audience to make their own judgments about the issue. The movie is not only informative but also emotionally compelling, showing the human faces behind the legal battle and the personal toll it takes on the plaintiffs and their partners.

In conclusion, Saving Marriage is a powerful and moving documentary that documents a pivotal moment in the fight for marriage equality. Through its detailed account of the legal battle in Massachusetts, the movie sheds light on the larger struggle for LGBT rights in the US and around the world. The documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice and human rights.