Director Christopher Hines' documentary on what it means to be gay in a macho world arrives on DVD next month.

The Butch Factor looks at masculinity when you're gay.

“What does it mean to be a man?” the film's marketing asks. “Who defines masculinity? Do these ideas change according to history and culture? And are gay men losing their critical eye on masculinity as they seek more acceptance in mainstream society?”

The film premiered in June at San Francisco's acclaimed Frameline Film Festival.

Hines tells the story of masculinity from a fresh angle: the gay man. What does macho mean for burly San Francisco Lt. Sheriff Vince Calvarese versus Mark Snyder, a petite man who embraces his effeminacy with a “sissy” tattoo. As Snyder faces bullying and violence on the streets of San Francisco, Calvarese's problems have more to do with being stereotyped. But both men confront societal expectations about what it means to be a man.

The Butch Factor arrives on DVD January 19 and is slated for broadcast on all-gay cabler Logo in March.

Gay Entertainment Report is feature of On Top Magazine and can be reached at ontopmag@ontopmag.com.