Popcorn With Peter Travers Season 7 Episode 31 'Love Is Strange': So Much More Than a Gay Marriage Story

In this episode of "Popcorn With Peter Travers," the focus is on the film "Love Is Strange," which tells the story of two older men, Ben (John Lithgow) and George (Alfred Molina), who finally get married after being together for 39 years. However, after George loses his job, the couple is forced to sell their apartment and live separately with friends and family until they can find a new home.

Travers points out that while the film deals with the struggles of a gay couple in today's society, it goes beyond just that issue. It's a love story about the ups and downs of any marriage, as Ben and George navigate their changing circumstances and the strain it puts on their relationship.

Travers also praises the performances of Lithgow and Molina, who bring a sense of authenticity to their roles as a longtime couple. He notes that their chemistry and comfort with each other make it easy to believe in their love and the challenges they face.

The episode also features an interview with the film's director, Ira Sachs, who talks about the themes of the movie and his inspiration for it. Sachs explains that he wanted to explore the idea of family, both biological and chosen, and how people can support each other through life's difficulties.

Travers and Sachs also discuss the importance of representation in film and how "Love Is Strange" contributes to a broader conversation about LGBTQ+ stories being told on screen. They note that while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in terms of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.

Overall, this episode of "Popcorn With Peter Travers" provides an insightful and thought-provoking look at "Love Is Strange" and the issues it raises. It's a reminder that love is universal, regardless of who you are and who you love.