Watch Surviving the Silence

Surviving the Silence is a powerful and emotional film, based on the true story of Colonel Margarethe Cammermeyer, who fought to overturn the military's anti-gay policy, known as 'Don't ask, don't tell'. The movie revolves around Margarethe, played by Barbara Brass, a decorated nursing officer in the army, who has been serving for over two decades. She is a dutiful and committed soldier who has always put her service to her country above everything else in her life. But she has been hiding a secret, one that could potentially end her career and her lifelong dream of serving in the military.

Margarethe, like many other gay and lesbian soldiers, is forced to hide her sexuality under the threat of being discharged from the military. But that all changes when she meets the love of her life, Diane, played by Jena Malone. Margarethe's world turns upside down when she realizes that the army's policy is not just a threat to her career, but to her personal happiness as well.

As she struggles to navigate through the treacherous waters of the military, Margarethe finds strength in the unwavering support of her partner Diane and a few loyal friends. But even with their support, she knows that if she wants to continue being herself, and continue fighting for her country, she must challenge the army's anti-gay policy, a policy she knows is unjust and discriminatory.

Margarethe's determination to change the military's policy sets her on a journey that is tumultuous, challenging, and often heartbreaking. Facing sexism, homophobia, and hostility from her superior officers, Margarethe must fight not just for herself but for every gay and lesbian soldier who has been forced to hide their identity.

Throughout the movie, we witness Margarethe's courage and resilience, as she faces one obstacle after another in her quest for justice. We see her as a lonely but determined voice fighting for a cause that is larger than herself, and we root for her every step of the way.

The movie also explores the love story between Margarethe and Diane, a relationship that is both beautiful and heart-wrenching. It captures the struggles of two people who deeply love each other but are forced to remain hidden from the world, a struggle that is all too real for many gay and lesbian couples in the military.

Barbara Brass delivers an outstanding performance as Margarethe, bringing to life the emotions and struggles of a woman thrust into a battle she never asked for but one she must fight nonetheless. She portrays Margarethe with sensitivity, strength, and honesty, making her a relatable and inspiring character.

Margarethe's fight against the military's policy was a landmark moment in the fight for LGBTQ rights. The movie does an excellent job of capturing the historical significance of her story and the impact it had on the lives of countless gay and lesbian soldiers who were finally able to serve openly in the military.

In conclusion, Surviving the Silence is a must-watch movie for anyone interested in LGBTQ rights, and the fight for justice and equality. It is a deeply moving and inspiring film that captures the spirit of one woman's struggle to be true to herself, and her unwavering commitment to fighting for what is right.

Surviving the Silence is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.3.