The Contender (2000)

The film features a fabricated allegation of a non-traditional sexual encounter, including a potential same-sex component, as a political smear. While this introduces the theme of non-traditional sexuality, the narrative condemns the smear campaign and its unethical tactics, not the implied act itself. There are no identifiable LGBTQ+ characters or affirming portrayals, resulting in a neutral net impact.

The film portrays characters who weaponize 'Christian values' and moralistic rhetoric for political gain, particularly Congressman Runyon, who is depicted as hypocritical and malicious. The narrative condemns this misuse of faith and the bigotry it fuels, positioning the audience to sympathize with the victim of these attacks, Senator Laine Hanson.