Open Secrets (2004): cast, story & where to watch
2004 · Film · ★ 5
Released in 2004, Open Secrets is a documentary film directed by José Torrealba, running about 52 minutes.
What it’s about. This provocative documentary uncovers a lost chapter in Canadian military history: how the Armed Forces dealt with homosexual behaviour among soldiers, during and after World War II. More than 60 years later, a group of five veterans, barely adults when they enlisted, break the silence to talk about how homosexual behaviour "was even more unmentionable than cancer." Yet amidst the brutality of war, instances of sexual awakening among soldiers and officers were occuring. Initially, the Army overlooked it, but as the war advanced, they began to crack down: military tribunals, threats of imprisonment, discharge and public exposure. After the war, officers accused of homosexuality were discharged. Back home in Canada, reputations and careers were ruined. For the young men who had served their country with valour, this final chapter was often too much to bear. Based on the book Courting Homosexuals in the Military by Paul Jackson.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.0/10, Open Secrets has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. In US you can rent or buy it from Amazon Video. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Open Secrets page.
If you liked it. Fans of Open Secrets tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Open Secrets (2004)?
- In US, Open Secrets is available to rent or buy from Amazon Video. Availability varies by country — check our where-to-watch page for every region.
- Is Open Secrets worth watching?
- Open Secrets holds an audience score of 5.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.