uss how five films exhibit an attempt by queer filmmakers to return this gaze by critiquing homophobia and racism in their films, both in Hollywood and society in general. These five films and their directors are: ôBoys DonÆt Cryö (Kimberly Peirce); ôTongues Untiedö (Marlon Riggs); ôParis is Burningö (Jennie Livingston); ôLooking for Langstonö (Isaac Julien); and ôThe Watermelon Womanö (Cheryl Dunye). A conclusion will address the significance of queer filmmakers attempting to shift the balance of power in Hollywood and society in general. ...