"Philadelphia" is a groundbreaking film that delves into the themes of discrimination, prejudice, and the AIDS epidemic. Directed by Jonathan Demme, the movie tells the story of Andrew Beckett, a successful lawyer who is fired from his prestigious law firm after they discover he has AIDS.
Determined to fight for justice, Beckett sues his former employers for discrimination, shedding light on the rampant prejudice faced by those diagnosed with AIDS during the early 1990s.
Historical Context:
The early 1990s was a period of heightened fear and misunderstanding about AIDS. The disease was often stigmatized, and those affected faced significant discrimination in both their personal and professional lives.
"Philadelphia" was one of the first major Hollywood films to address these issues head-on, bringing them to the forefront of public consciousness.
Release Information:
- Release Date: December 22, 1993
- Duration: 125 minutes
- Rating: PG-13
- Box Office: Grossed over $206 million worldwide
Cast & Crew:
- Lead Actor: Tom Hanks delivers a powerful and Oscar-winning performance as Andrew Beckett.
- Supporting Cast: Denzel Washington as Joe Miller, Beckett's initially hesitant but eventually supportive lawyer; Antonio Banderas as Miguel Álvarez, Beckett's partner; and Jason Robards as Charles Wheeler, the senior partner at Beckett's law firm.
- Director: Jonathan Demme
- Writers: Ron Nyswaner
- Producers: Edward Saxon, Jonathan Demme, and Gary Goetzman
Where to Watch
United States (US)
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Stream: Available on Starz Apple TV Channel, Starz Roku Premium Channel, Starz, and Starz Amazon Channel.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, DIRECTV, and AMC on Demand.
Australia (AU)
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
- Stream: Options include Paramount Plus, Paramount+ Amazon Channel, Stan, and Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Fetch TV.
United Kingdom (GB)
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
- Stream: Available on Sky Go and Now TV Cinema.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Chili, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Rakuten TV.
Germany (DE)
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
- Stream: Options include blutv, Joyn Plus, and Amazon Arthaus Channel.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Apple TV, Amazon Video, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV, Chili, and Microsoft Store.
Brazil (BR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
- Stream: Available on Star Plus and HBO Max.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Claro video, and Amazon Video.
Spain (ES)
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
- Stream: Available on Movistar Plus.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, and Amazon Video.
France (FR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Stream: Available on Canal+.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Bbox VOD, and Amazon Video.
Canada (CA)
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Stream: Options include Crave Starz, Hollywood Suite, and Hollywood Suite Amazon Channel.
- Buy/Rent: Platforms include Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Amazon Video.
Production Details:
- Production Company: TriStar Pictures
- Filming Locations: The film captures the essence of Philadelphia, with its iconic landmarks and urban settings playing a significant role in the narrative.
- Budget: Estimated at $26 million
Themes & Significance: "Philadelphia" is more than just a legal drama; it's a poignant exploration of societal prejudices. The film touches on the discrimination faced by both the LGBTQ+ community and those diagnosed with AIDS.
Through Beckett's journey, it emphasizes the importance of understanding, compassion, and fighting for one's rights in the face of adversity.
Reception & Impact: Upon its release, "Philadelphia" was met with critical acclaim, particularly for Tom Hanks' moving portrayal of Andrew Beckett. The film played a pivotal role in raising awareness about AIDS and the associated discrimination.
It also sparked discussions and increased empathy towards the LGBTQ+ community. Hanks' Oscar win for Best Actor further solidified the film's place in cinematic history.
Awards & Nominations: Apart from Hanks' Oscar win, the film's original song, "Streets of Philadelphia" by Bruce Springsteen, also won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The movie received numerous other nominations and awards, celebrating its storytelling, performances, and cultural impact.
Trivia:
- Tom Hanks lost around 26 pounds to portray the physical decline of his character due to AIDS.
- The film's success led to increased funding and awareness for AIDS research and support for those affected by the disease.