Philadelphia (1993) Synopsis Tom Hanks plays Andrew Beckett, a hotshot Philadelphia lawyer who has been keeping his homosexuality, and his AIDS, hidden from his conservative bosses. When he's suddenly and inexplicably fired, Andrew suspects AIDS is the reason, and is determined to fight in court, even as he is losing his other battle, against the disease. Beckett hires attorney Joe Miller (Denzel Washington) to represent him, but the lawyer must first overcome his own homophobia and fears. Director Jonathan Demme filmed this after winning the Oscar for SILENCE OF THE LAMBS. The amazing cast includes Antonio Banderas, Joanne Woodward, and Jason Robards. Roger Corman and Charles Napier, both in LAMBS, make appearances. Bruce Springsteen's haunting song "Streets of Philadelphia" plays over the memorable opening credits. This sensitive, moody film touches on a vast array of subjects surrounding gay and straight men, family, and death, without ever being maudlin or preachy, which is to its immense credit. An undoubted influence on society's growing acceptance of homosexuality, PHILADELPHIA reminds us how far we've come in that direction, and how far we still need to go. Rankings Position #24 Best LGTBIQ+ Productions Awards 1993: 2 Academy Awards: Best Actor (Tom Hanks), Original Song. 5 Nominations 1993: 2 Golden Globes: Best Actor Drama (Hanks), Original Song. 3 Nominations 1993: Nominated for BAFTA Awards: Best Original Screenplay 1993: Writers Guild of America (WGA): Nominated for Best Original Screenplay 1994: Berlin Film Festival: Silver Bear - Best Actor (Tom Hanks) 1993: Chicago Film Critics Awards: Nom. for Best Director & Best Actor (Hanks)