De-Lovely MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +3 Content: -1 1/2

De-Lovely, a Chicago-like musical, is the partially fictionalized biography of the famous and enduring American composer Cole Porter (Kevin Kline). The film is set to a remarkable score of Porter's own musical numbers, performed by popular musicians like Alanis Morisette and Natalie Cole. But more than showcasing his fabulous musical legacy, De-Lovely tells the story of Porter's tumultuous lifestyle, his lengthy but unusual relationship with his wife, Linda (Ashley Judd), and his persistent search for love in the arms of the numerous men with whom he had homosexual relationships. It begins with an elderly Porter being escorted by Gabe (Jonathan Pryce), the apparent director of a new musical show about Porter's life. Gabe seems to intend for Cole to preview and critique the show. But when they watch the performances unfold and listen to Coles own songs, the show becomes reality as Porter explains his life, his passions and his choices to Gabe.

De-Lovely has much to offer both musically and dramatically. And in a day when Christians are faced with pressures to consider homosexuality an acceptable lifestyle, De-Lovely may be worth seeing and discussing simply because it approaches the topic without being terribly graphic. It includes males dancing and kissing as well as implied sexual encounters. The film promotes the claim that homosexuals, like heterosexuals, are simply searching for love in their own way. But Coles search is destructive as he endangers himself, his career and his marriage through his selfish pursuit of happiness. Linda, in contrast, demonstrates selfless love for Cole by protecting, encouraging and remaining committed to him. Unfortunately, appropriate moral commentary is absent from this film, making it difficult to recommend to Previews readers. The film adds crude and profane language, sealing its negative acceptability rating.

Preview Reviewer: Shaun Daugherty
Distributor: MGM