In and Out (1989 film)

In and Out is a 1989 American comedy film directed by Frank Oz and starring Kevin Kline, Joan Cusack, Matt Dillon, Debbie Reynolds, and Tom Selleck.

The film revolves around Howard Brackett (Kline), a high school English teacher in the fictional town of Greenleaf, Indiana. Howard is days away from marrying his long-time fiancée, Emily Montgomery (Cusack), when a former student, Cameron Drake (Dillon), wins an Academy Award for Best Actor. During his acceptance speech, Cameron, seemingly off-the-cuff, thanks Howard, and states that Howard is gay.

This revelation throws Howard's life into disarray as he tries to convince himself and everyone else that he is not gay. The film explores themes of small-town perceptions, homophobia, and the pressures of societal expectations. It also examines the nature of identity and self-acceptance.

The movie was inspired, in part, by Tom Hanks' 1994 Oscar acceptance speech, in which he thanked his high school drama teacher and a former classmate, both of whom were gay.

In and Out received positive reviews for its comedic performances and its exploration of social issues. Joan Cusack received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Emily.