June 24, 2011 | Celeb Watch

James Franco explores yet another gay role

Actor James Franco -- who is straight -- has written, directed, and produced a movie chronicling the life of tortured gay poet Hart Crane. 

The movie is called The Broken Tower, and explores the world of Crane who killed himself at 32 in 1932.

"I couldn’t even tell you what half his stuff means," Franco said, admitting that much of Crane's work was difficult to digest. "But what inspired me is his spirit and drive. He cared so much about his work, even when nobody else understood it."

The film itself, which also stars Franco, features graphic sex scenes. Hooray!

This is the second time Franco has played a gay poet. He appeared as Allen Ginsberg in Howl. He also starred in Milk as Harvey Milk's boyfriend Scott Smith.  

For a straight guy he's getting more gay action than some of the homos we know!

James Franco back to the esoterica in another turn as a gay poet  [LA Times]

James Franco Discusses His Hart Crane Film The Broken Tower [LA Weekly]