Bohemian Rhapsody: The Controversy and Representation of Freddie Mercury

The release of Rocketman in 2019 brought a new perspective on the life of Elton John, showing his first male sexual relationship with unflinching honesty. This has brought a spotlight to the contrasting representation of Freddie Mercury in the 2018 film Bohemian Rhapsody. How did Freddie Mercury, a man whose life was similarly marked by sexual exploration and self-discovery, get portrayed on screen?

The Controversy

Some contend that Bohemian Rhapsody disappointed with its relatively restrained depiction of Freddie Mercury, often glossing over his more public and personal struggles. A kiss with Jim Hutton, meant as a reward for taming his promiscuity, and a half-naked Mary in the fairy tale proposal scene are the few sexual scenes featured. The film could have provided a more suggestive scene, perhaps a moment of Freddie waking up in Jim's arms, but chose not to. This decision has sparked controversy and criticism, particularly from segments of the LGBTQ community.

Freddie Mercury: A Private Individual

Freddie Mercury was a private person, and to expose the most intimate aspects of his life excessively doesn’t seem respectful. Bohemian Rhapsody focused on Freddie the person, Freddie the musical genius, Freddie the disappointed, and Freddie the flawed human being. The film aimed to tell the unique rise of Freddie Mercury and Queen, and it succeeded in doing so in a respectful manner.

Controversy and Misunderstanding

The controversy stems from a desire for more nudity, more forbidden material, and more shock. Some believed that Freddie’s life was being portrayed in a way that it wasn’t.

It's important to note that the film didn't set out to portray Freddie Mercury as he was in all aspects. It aimed to tell the story of his rise to fame and the unique development of his life. Roger Taylor, another member of Queen, summed it up perfectly in an interview after the Oscars. He described what people wanted as "gritty" – a much darker, more unflinching version of the film. The implication is a desire to see the more raw, unfiltered side of Freddie Mercury's life.

Focus on LGBTQ Representation

There is also a sense of disappointment from the LGBTQ community that the film did not spend more time emphasizing Freddie’s sexuality. However, it's crucial to remember that Freddie Mercury was bisexual, not gay, and this multifaceted aspect of his identity should not be ignored. His flamboyance and sexuality should never be the primary focus of his legacy. Instead, he should be celebrated for his musical skills and his remarkable voice.

Respectful Portrayal of Freddie Mercury

Bohemian Rhapsody portrays Freddie Mercury in a respectful and well-rounded manner, highlighting his creative genius, personal struggles, and human imperfections. This approach sets it apart from the kind of sensationalized portrayals often found in biopics. The film is a celebration of Freddie Mercury's music and the unique journey that led to the creation of Queen. Despite the criticism, it remains a significant contribution to the cultural landscape.

Watch the official trailer for Rocketman here.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the representation of Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody highlights a broader issue in the portrayal of LGBTQ individuals in media. While the film is not perfect, it represents a step toward a more nuanced representation of a complex and multifaceted individual. The desire for a "gritty" and darker portrayal reflects a need for more truthful and respectful portrayals of LGBTQ individuals in film and media.