The 21 Best LGBT Movies You Should Have Already Seen By Now! 🏳️‍🌈

Talking about the best LGBT movies is meant to highlight and give visibility to a series of stories, characters, and problems that rarely make it to mainstream cinema. Whether they were blockbusters or unknown indie gems, these movies proved that there could be more to the big screen than usual, more than straight romances and cisgender-centric narratives, more than traditional sex models and stereotypes.

The landscape of LGBTQ+ cinema has evolved and expanded over the years, capturing the diverse experiences, struggles, and triumphs of the queer community. While it has always been present in cinema in one way or another, it has been especially in recent decades when we have experienced an impressive wave of LGTB cinema with numerous, diverse and exciting examples.

From heartwarming stories of love and acceptance to powerful portrayals of discrimination and resilience, LGBTQ+ movies have brought important narratives to the forefront of mainstream cinema, challenging societal norms and sparking conversations about sexual orientation, gender identity, and human rights.

In this article, we will delve into some of the best LGBT movies that have left an indelible mark on the film industry, offering a glimpse into the multifaceted lives of queer individuals and celebrating the power of representation in cinema.

This list chronicles the development of queer representation in film, going way back in time to find the first instances where members of the LGBT community were featured on the big screen. A long time has passed since the release of some of these films, but they all pushed LGBT representation a little forward.

Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or not, these films are a testament to the rich storytelling and impactful performances that have contributed to the vibrant canon of LGBTQ+ cinema, pushing boundaries and paving the way for more inclusive narratives on the big screen.

Wondering where to watch? It depends on where you live in the world and which streaming services you have. We link to the streaming service we watch on in each case - be it Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apply TV+, or elsewhere.

You can get one month free of Amazon Pride (or a 6-month trial for students) of Amazon Prime and also get immediate access to FREE Two Day shipping, Amazon Video, and Music. While you won't be charged for your free trial, you'll be upgraded to a paid membership plan automatically at the end of the trial period - though if you have already binged all these, you could just cancel before the trial ends.

Apple TV+ also has a one-week trial, and Hulu has a one-month trial (which can be bundled with Disney!). Another option might be using a VPN to access Netflix titles locked to other regions. Netflix is now available in more than 190 countries worldwide and each country has a different library and availability. US Netflix is (understandably) one of the best. 

While we wish everything could just be in one place - for now, it seems these are the best streaming platforms to watch on.

The Boys In The Band (1970)

The Boys in the Band, was directed by William Friedkin. This great director and cameraman would go on to shoot The French Connection a year later, and The Exorcist in 1973. Originally a play by Mart Crowley, which premiered on Broadway in 1968. Two years after its resounding success, it was decided to make its film version with the same actors who had performed it on the stage.

To this day, this is one of the greatest films to ever feature gay characters: it was born at a time when gay rights activism was becoming stronger and stronger, a time when the fights to fight where incredibly hard. Perhaps that’s why it’s shocking to see how many of the themes addressed in the film are still so current.

A group of friends gets together to celebrate Harold’s birthday (the eldest of the group). With the heat of the night, alcohol, and drugs, the characters bring out their inner demons, and what begins as a party ends with a catharsis that shakes each character emotionally.

Topics such as loneliness, the fear of aging, not accepting oneself, homophobia, the need to live hidden, fidelity, the impact produced by first love, the love-hate relationship between friends, alcoholism, the importance of physical appearance, prostitution or social obstacles to self-realization underlie throughout the film.

And a historical fact that would help to understand the film more is that the story takes place before the Stonewall riots, which marked a before and after in the civil rights of gay people in the United States.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

Portrait of a Lady on Fire, directed by Céline Sciamma, is a breathtakingly beautiful film that captures the raw emotions of forbidden love with exquisite precision. Sciamma, known for her unique and compelling storytelling, has established herself as a prominent figure in contemporary French cinema, and Portrait of a Lady on Fire is undoubtedly one of her masterpieces.

The film is set in 18th century France and follows the story of Marianne, played brilliantly by Noémie Merlant, a young painter commissioned to create a portrait of Héloïse, portrayed by Adèle Haenel, a young woman who has just left the convent and is about to be married. However, as Marianne spends time with Héloïse, the two women develop a deep and passionate bond that transcends societal norms and expectations.

The central love story between Marianne and Héloïse is a poignant exploration of lesbian desire, depicted with sensitivity and authenticity. Sciamma presents their relationship with nuance and tenderness, showing the complexities of navigating love in a society that restricts same-sex relationships.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a cinematic masterpiece with its stunning visuals, moving performances, and thought-provoking exploration of love and freedom. The film’s LGBTQ+ representation significantly contributes to queer cinema, portraying lesbian love with grace and authenticity. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates artful storytelling and nuanced portrayals of LGBTQ+ relationships.

Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Dog Day Afternoon (1975) is a classical heist and dramatic film directed by Sidney Lumet and written by Oscar-winner Frank Pierson.

The story sees two inexperienced thieves, Sonny (Al Pacino) and Sal (John Cazale), who try to rob a bank, planning to quickly enter, take the money and flee. As they are about to enter the vault, the authorities are alerted and find themselves in trouble. Within minutes, almost three hundred policemen surround the place. It seems like the only choice for Sonny and Sal is to take hostages and negotiate.

The film is an exquisite mixture of police cinema, social criticism, thriller, and almost comical lines, introduced with such care that it maintains the dramatic tension, a hint of laughter in each irony, and between the lines to think a little beyond the big screen.

Filmed during the seventies, the film was a key representation of the pacifist social movements that emerged in the United States after the country intervened in Vietnam in 1964. Dog Day Afternoon deals with the theme of sexuality with delicate handling, showing the ideological movements brewing in the seventies.

It was one of the first movies to feature homosexuality and bisexuality: as the viewer learns through the movie, the character of Sonny maintains a relationship with both a man and a woman.

Disobedience (2018)

Disobedience is a powerful drama directed by Sebastián Lelio, a critically acclaimed director known for his unique exploration of complex characters and their inner struggles. Disobedience is based on the novel of the same name by Naomi Alderman and stars Rachel Weisz, Rachel McAdams, and Alessandro Nivola in the lead roles.

The film follows the story of Ronit (Weisz), a photographer who returns to her Orthodox Jewish community in North London after her father’s death, a respected rabbi. Her return sparks tension and forbidden desires as she reconnects with her childhood friend Esti (McAdams), now married to Dovid (Nivola), a devout student of Ronit’s father. As Ronit and Esti confront their past and the expectations of their community, they are forced to confront their desires and question their beliefs.

What makes Disobedience so special is its raw and honest portrayal of forbidden love, desire, and the conflicts between personal freedom and religious expectations. Lelio masterfully captures the tension between tradition and individuality, and the talented cast beautifully portrays the emotional complexities of the characters. 

Disobedience is a beautifully shot and thought-provoking film that challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of love, identity, and faith. It is a moving portrayal of forbidden love and the courage to defy societal expectations. With its stellar performances, compelling story, and nuanced direction, Disobedience is a must-watch film for anyone interested in LGBT cinema or stories that delve into the complexities of human emotions.

My Beautiful Launderette (1985)

My Beautiful Launderette, by Stephen Frears, is a romantic drama originally shot for television, but ended up pleasing its creators so much that they pushed for it to be released in cinemas, where it became an international success.

The film portrays London during the times when Margaret Thatcher ruled the country, all through the eyes and the complex lives of its Asian community. The plot makes use of a large number of controversial and controversial issues, such as homosexuality, racism, and the economic and political laws passed during the Thatcher administration.

It maintains a sense of humor that varies from ironic to scathing and seriously criticizes the racism that prevented Pakistani integration into English society. The film shows a then-unknown Daniel Ley-Lewis in the role of Johnny, a former member of an antisocial gang, who becomes the protagonist’s lover.

Omar Hussein (Gordon Warnecke) is a young man of Pakistani origin who lives in the London of the eighties, a city that he detests because of his racism towards his community and the country’s current economic and international policies. His uncle, however, has perfectly integrated into English society where he has become famous as a businessman. Omar’s father asks him to help his son by giving him a job.

At first, Omar works washing cars, but eventually an old laundromat is handed over to him, whose business he must help revive. Omar meets up with Johnny (Daniel Day Lewis), a former member of a racist and violent group, with whom he had a relationship during their student days. They become a couple, living happily while they rob Salim, a drug dealer, to get money for the laundry to get ahead. However, Omar’s family, and Johnny’s old gang, may pose a threat.

The Handmaiden (2016)

The Handmaiden, directed by Park Chan-wook, is a visually stunning and masterfully crafted film that leaves a lasting impact on its viewers. Park Chan-wook is a renowned South Korean director known for his distinctive style and provocative storytelling. His remarkable career includes critically acclaimed films such as Oldboy, Lady Vengeance, and Thirst.

The film is set in 1930s Korea under Japanese colonial rule and revolves around a pickpocket named Sook-hee (played by Kim Tae-ri) who is hired as a handmaiden for a wealthy Japanese heiress, Lady Hideko (played by Kim Min-hee). However, as Sook-hee becomes entangled in an intricate web of secrets and desires, the story takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

The film portrays a lesbian romance between Sook-hee and Lady Hideko, which is shown with sensitivity and authenticity, transcending the boundaries of societal norms and expectations. The film beautifully explores the complexities of their relationship and challenges the conventions of gender and sexuality.

The Handmaiden is a visually stunning and narratively captivating film that showcases Park Chan-wook’s directorial brilliance. It is a must-watch for those who appreciate artful cinema, intricate storytelling, and nuanced LGBT representation. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an immersive cinematic experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

The Watermelon Woman (1996)

The Watermelon Woman is a romantic comedy film written, directed, and acted by Cheryl Dunye. It stars Dunye as Cheryl, a young black lesbian trying to pursue her artistic goals. It was the first feature ever film directed by a woman who was both black and lesbian. As such, and considering the deep themes of black sexuality and black womanhood the film deals with, it’s regarded as a milestone in New Queer Cinema and one of the best LGBT movies we have seen to date.

Set in Philadelphia, The Watermelon Woman is the story of Cheryl (Cheryl Dunye), a black lesbian in her 20s fighting to make a documentary about Fae Richards, a beautiful and elusive 1930s black actress popularly known as “The Watermelon Woman.

As she discovers what Fae Richards’s life was like, Cheryl experiences a total upheaval in her personal life. Her love affair with Diana (Guinevere Turner), an attractive white woman, and her interactions with the gay and black communities are comically and bitterly criticized by her best friend Tamara (Valarie Walker).

Meanwhile, each answer Cheryl discovers about The Watermelon Woman raises a host of new questions about herself and her future. By the film’s conclusion, the viewer will realize that The Watermelon Woman is clearly a metaphor for Cheryl’s search for her identity, her community, and her love for herself.

Colette (2018)

Colette, directed by Wash Westmoreland, is a captivating biographical drama that delves into the life of the renowned French author Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette, portrayed brilliantly by Keira Knightley. Wash Westmoreland, known for his work on Still Alice, brings his keen eye for storytelling to this period piece, providing a fresh perspective on Colette’s life and legacy.

The film follows Colette‘s journey as a young woman who struggles to break free from societal norms in the late 19th century. When her husband Willy (played by Dominic West), a charismatic but exploitative writer, takes credit for her semi-autobiographical novel, Claudine, Colette must find her voice and identity. She embarks on a journey of self-discovery, defying gender roles and societal expectations, and exploring her sexuality.

Colette’s relationship with the gender-fluid Missy (played by Denise Gough) is a central aspect of the film, shedding light on Colette’s bisexuality and the complexities of her love life. The film portrays their relationship with sensitivity and authenticity, capturing the nuances of same-sex love at a time when it was considered taboo.

The film’s screenplay, written by Wash Westmoreland, Rebecca Lenkiewicz, and Richard Glatzer, is engaging and thought-provoking, capturing the feminist themes of Colette’s work and her fight for creative ownership. The performances are outstanding, with Keira Knightley delivering a powerful performance as Colette, showcasing her talent for portraying strong, independent women. Dominic West is equally compelling as Willy, showing the complexity of his character with finesse.

Colette is a must-watch film for its engaging storytelling, exceptional performances, and portrayal of an iconic figure in literature and LGBT representation. It is a powerful celebration of female empowerment, artistic expression, and love that transcends societal norms. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates historical dramas, compelling biopics, and meaningful LGBT representation on screen.

Boys Don’t Cry (1999)

Boys Don’t Cry, by Kimberly Peirce, is a biographical film about the real-life story of Brandon Teena (played in the film by Hilary Swank), an American trans man who tries to find himself and love in Nebraska, but who became the victim of a brutal hate crime perpetrated by two of his male acquaintances.

After reading about the case while in college, Peirce did extensive research for a screenplay, which she worked on for nearly five years. The film focuses on the relationship between Brandon and his girlfriend Lana (Chloë Sevigny). The script took the dialogue directly from stock footage in the 1998 documentary The Brandon Teena Story.

The film was critically acclaimed, with many calling it one of the best movies of the year. Praise focused on the lead performances of Swank and Sevigny, as well as the film’s depiction of its tragic subject matter. However, some people involved with Brandon in real life criticized the film for not portraying the events accurately. Boys Don’t Cry was nominated for multiple awards, with Swank winning an Academy Award for Best Actress the very next year.

Mulholland Drive (2001)

In a poll by the BBC in 2016, over a hundred critics weighed in with their opinions about the best films ever to be made in the 21^st century. And the top film on this list of best LGBT movies just so happens to chronicle the relationship between two women. This film is Mulholland Drive, David Lynch’s classic, which shocked audiences and critics alike upon its release with its avant-garde storytelling and mind-bending narrative.

In the director’s surreal and dreamlike style, the film tells the story of the relationship between Betty and Rita (or between Diane and Camilla, depending on which part of the movie the focus is set), played by Naomi Watts and Laura Harring. It goes as follows: after a car accident on the famous Mulholland Drive in Los Angeles, a half-unconscious woman wanders through the lonely streets and, fearing she may be followed, hides in a random house. Just the day after, Betty, the owner’s niece, arrives there and finds this woman in the place.

Betty, an aspiring actress, recently arrived in Hollywood and an all-around kind soul offers to help the woman, who is suffering from amnesia. They find a blue key in the stranger’s bag and several bundles of bills. The memory of a name, Diane Selwyn, will help them in the attempt to find out the mysterious woman’s identity. It is a complicated film, with many layers and winks, but it’s truly worth a watch.

The Kids Are All Right (2010)

The Kids Are All Right is a heartwarming and poignant film directed by Lisa Cholodenko, known for her unique perspective on family dynamics and relationships. Cholodenko, a talented filmmaker known for her work in independent cinema, has a keen eye for capturing the complexities of human emotions and has a reputation for telling relatable and thought-provoking stories.

The film boasts an impressive cast, with Annette Bening and Julianne Moore portraying a married couple, Nic and Jules, respectively, who are raising their two teenage children, Joni (played by Mia Wasikowska) and Laser (played by Josh Hutcherson). The plot revolves around the two children’s curiosity about their sperm donor father, Paul (played by Mark Ruffalo), and their journey to establish a relationship with him.

What makes The Kids Are All Right so special is its honest portrayal of a modern family and its exploration of complex emotions, both within and outside the LGBT+ community. The film delves into themes of love, identity, and acceptance, while showcasing the intricacies of family dynamics and the challenges in relationships. The performances of Bening, Moore, Ruffalo, Wasikowska, and Hutcherson are exceptional, delivering authentic performances that tug at the heartstrings.

The Kids Are All Right is a must-watch film that portrays LGBT+ relationships sensitively and authentically. With a stellar cast, expert direction from Cholodenko, and a compelling storyline, this movie is a beautiful exploration of family, love, and self-acceptance. Highly recommended for its thought-provoking themes and powerful performances.

The Hours (2002)

The Hours, by Stephen Daldry, is the adaptation of the homonymous novel by Michael Cunningham published in 1998. The film begins with the recreation of the suicide of Virginia Woolf (Nicole Kidman), who throws herself into the River Ouse, very close to her house in Sussex (England), with her clothes stuffed with stones.

Previously, she has left two letters: one for her husband Leonard and one for her sister Vanessa. This sequence gives way to the presentation of three women, whose stories will unfold throughout the film. Virginia Woolf, Laura Brown (Julianne Moore), and Clarissa Vaughn (Meryl Streep).

The first woman we are introduced to is Virginia Woolf (Nicole Kidman). She is the one who, in some way and through her novel, fosters the ties so that her work unites the lives of very dissimilar women. The writer is portrayed in the creative process of Mrs. Dalloway in 1923, two years before the novel saw the light. On the other hand, we have Laura Brown (Julianne Moore), an unhappily married woman who discovers Virginia Woolf on her husband’s birthday. In some way, her work represents an escape route from her reality.

Set in the year 1951, Laura is secretly in love with one of her neighbors, but upon learning of her illness, she begins to debate whether to leave her family or continue living a lie. Finally, the character of the great star Meryl Streep is that of Clarissa Vaughan who, in addition to sharing a name with the protagonist of Mrs. Dalloway, is a bisexual writer from New York. We know that she is caring for a great friend and ex-lover of hers, a writer who has contracted AIDS.

Tangerine (2015)

Tangerine is a critically acclaimed indie film directed by Sean Baker, known for his unique style and focus on marginalized characters. Baker gained recognition for his innovative and authentic approach to storytelling, often using non-professional actors and shooting on iPhones, which he employed in Tangerine as well. The film stars Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor, both of whom deliver powerful performances.

The plot follows Sin-Dee (Rodriguez), a transgender sex worker who discovers that her boyfriend and pimp has been cheating on her. Together with her best friend Alexandra (Taylor), they embark on a furious pursuit across Los Angeles to confront him. The film captures the raw and gritty reality of the lives of transgender sex workers, showcasing their struggles, dreams, and friendships.

What makes Tangerine special is its authentic portrayal of a transgender community rarely seen on screen. Baker’s direction is both tender and empathetic, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals, while also celebrating their resilience and spirit. The performances of Rodriguez and Taylor are remarkable, bringing depth, humor, and vulnerability to their characters.

Tangerine challenges stereotypes and gives voice to a community often marginalized in mainstream media. The film’s exploration of friendship and sisterhood among transgender individuals is heartwarming and inspiring, and it presents their stories with dignity and respect.

Tangerine is a groundbreaking film that is visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and socially relevant. With its unique approach to storytelling, exceptional performances, and positive LGBT representation, Tangerine is a must-watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking cinema that pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms. 

Saving Face (2004)

At 28 years old, Wil (Michelle Krusiec), a young New York surgeon of Chinese origin, has a promising professional future. At her 48th, Ma (Joan Chen), her mother, is recognized by her community for being a selfless woman and an exemplary widow.

Ma orchestrates encounters between her single daughter and prospective boyfriends, but Wil happens to be gay and keeping appearances. The protagonist will see her single life and her recent romance with Vivian (Lynn Chen), a talented dancer, perturbed when her mother shows up at her apartment door.

Kicked out of her own parents’ house (Wil’s grandparents) because they found out she had gotten pregnant while also being a widow, Ma will settle in and impose her style and demands on her daughter’s space. Soon Wil will rediscover the woman who raised her, the same woman who, in nine months, will be a mother again.

Director Alice Wu wrote Saving Face as a “love letter” to her mother. She wanted to portray the idea that it is never too late to reconcile with your own children. That it’s is not too late to rectify and take a new path, to discover the possibilities of a new life and a new love. The film touches on the subjects of understanding (and respecting) the tradition while at the same time gaining respect for what’s new and untraditional. Wu’s sensitivity is highlighted in her portrayal of her vulnerability, making Saving Face one of the most touching and best LGBT movies of the decade.

A Single Man (2009)

A Single Man, by Tom Ford, based on a book by Christopher Isherwood, tells the story of a man who loses his male partner in an accident and dives into a deep depression.

Set in Los Angeles, during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, the film follows George Falconer (Colin Firth), a mature British university professor and homosexual, who is struggling to find meaning in life after the death of Jim (Matthew Goode), his romantic partner. He finds solace with his close friend Charley (J. Moore), who is also filled with doubts about the future. Kenny (Nicholas Hoult), a student struggling to accept his true nature, stalks George because he sees a kindred spirit in him.

The film is a thoughtful portrayal of what it’s like to lose someone you love. While perfectly capturing the suffocating power of grief it also elevates happiness and shows that the grief one feels is love taking on a different form. A Single Man catches things we all feel sometimes but maybe scared to admit. This film will surely make you cry.

Happy Together (1997)

Happy Together, directed by Wong Kar-wai, is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that captivates audiences with its powerful storytelling and unique portrayal of gay relationships. Wong Kar-wai is a renowned Hong Kong director known for his visually rich and emotionally complex films, and Happy Together is no exception.

The film stars Tony Leung and Leslie Cheung as Ho Po-wing and Lai Yiu-fai, respectively, a gay couple from Hong Kong who travel to Argentina in an attempt to salvage their failing relationship. The film delves into the intricacies of their relationship as they navigate their differences and struggles, exploring themes of love, longing, and self-discovery.

What sets Happy Together apart is its exceptional cinematography, which is visually mesmerizing and serves as a metaphor for the tumultuous nature of the characters’ relationship. Wong Kar-wai’s use of color, light, and framing creates a dreamlike atmosphere that draws the audience into the character’s emotional journey.

The film’s representation of LGBTQ+ relationships was groundbreaking for its time. Wong Kar-wai portrays the complexities and challenges the characters face sensitively and authentically, without resorting to stereotypes or cliches. The film depicts the struggles of being in a same-sex relationship, including societal discrimination and internal conflicts, with raw honesty, making it a significant contribution to LGBTQ+ cinema.

Happy Together is a compelling film that showcases Wong Kar-wai’s masterful direction and the exceptional performances of the lead actors. Its unique visual style, poignant storytelling and groundbreaking LGBTQ+ representation make it a must-watch for cinephiles and fans of LGBTQ+ cinema alike. Highly recommended for those seeking a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of love and relationships.

Pride (2014)

Pride, by Matthew Warchus, has been defined as the British comedy of the year and has garnered much praise from critics and audiences. It tells a true and unknown story, that of the alliance between the gay and lesbian movement with English miners, who had a harsh time during the Thatcher era between 1984 and 1985.

This historical context served as the backdrop of other films such as Billy Elliot, or My Beautiful Launderette, to which the advertising for Pride appeals as a reference. The film conveys an idyllic vision of the rural and the message that one should put a gay in your life so there will be joy.

Pride is based on a real event, the far from easy or simple alliance between gays, lesbians, and miners. The film lets people discover two events many were unaware of the founding of the Lesbians and Gays Support Miners (LGSM) group and the subsequent participation of the mining unions in the 1985 Pride Parade. This dramatic comedy brilliantly manages the codes of the genre to build a commercial film that works and moves.

And this is one of the strengths of Pride, which, aimed at the general public, manages to make the LGBT fight visible and daily without losing its power.

Better Than Chocolate (1999)

Better Than Chocolate is a Canadian romantic comedy film directed by Anne Wheeler, known for her contributions to Canadian cinema and her strong support for social issues. With a career spanning over four decades, Wheeler has received critical acclaim for her work tackling social and political issues in her films, including women’s rights, indigenous rights, and LGBTQ+ rights.

The film features a talented cast of actors, including Karyn Dwyer as Maggie, Christina Cox as Kim, Wendy Crewson as Lila, and Peter Outerbridge as Judy, among others. Dwyer delivers a captivating performance as Maggie, a young lesbian artist who falls in love with Kim, played by Cox, a mysterious bookstore clerk. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their portrayal of a budding lesbian romance is authentic and heartwarming.

The plot follows Maggie’s journey as she navigates her relationship with Kim, while also dealing with her conservative mother Lila, played by Crewson, who unexpectedly arrives at her doorstep. As Maggie and Kim’s relationship deepens, they face challenges and discrimination from society, including homophobic attacks and prejudice. The film also touches on the issue of censorship, as censorship campaigns target Kim’s feminist bookstore.

As an LGBTQ+ film, Better Than Chocolate is a landmark in queer cinema. It challenges societal norms and sheds light on the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ individuals while also celebrating love, diversity, and acceptance. The film is a heartwarming and entertaining portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships, with witty dialogues, relatable characters, and a meaningful message about the importance of being true to oneself.

Better Than Chocolate is a must-watch film for anyone who appreciates LGBTQ+ cinema. It boasts a talented cast, an engaging plot, and powerful LGBTQ+ representation. Director Anne Wheeler’s skillful storytelling, combined with the exceptional performances of the cast, make this film a timeless classic in queer cinema. 

God’s Own Country (2017)

God’s Own Country, by Francis Lee, is a romantic drama film set in the British countryside.  This is one of the best LGBT movies that stood out the most in recent years. Its narrative is honest and calm. It stays away from common clichés in LGBT representation. It makes the subject its own, treating the relationship that develops between the main characters with great care.

Because it shows interest in the representation of pertinent themes, such as racism, and does not fall into bad representations of farmers and people living in the countryside either. Accompanied by the brilliant performances of its cast and with a solid narration, the film covers the transformation of the protagonist, a misfit and alcoholic farmer, after the arrival of a Romanian immigrant.

The film begins with the sale of cattle in the town, after that and a moment of wild sex in the middle of an animal transport truck, the movie’s main part begins: with the arrival of Gheorghe Ionescu (Alec Secareanu) to the farm to help Johnny Saxby (Josh O’Connor) in the time of cattle childbirth, since his father cannot do it because he is ill. For Johnny, the arrival of someone new to the farm is not very welcomed, since he doesn’t want anyone to disturb his way of doing things, and nor does he want anyone to do things with him.

Yet he will find that, in the case of Gheorghe, he doesn’t feel apathy, but something else.

BPM: Beats Per Minute (2017)

Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival, and selected by France to represent the country at the next Oscars, BPM: Beats Per Minute, by Robin Campillo, is an incredible and brave story about a group of individuals who raised their voices to fight for their lives and defend their rights amid the HIV epidemic. The film takes the viewer to the trenches to relieve the tireless battle of these young people, seeking to receive fair treatment from society and the government institutions.

Set in Paris, Nathan (Arnaud Valois) is an HIV-negative teenager who decides to join Act Up, an activist group made up of carriers of the virus who not only seek to educate and raise awareness in society about the virus, but also hope to find a cure for their condition. The group’s passion is perceptible in each of the group sessions in which they discuss their plans of action. Nathan falls in love with Sean (Nahuel Pérez Biscayart), one of the organization’s leaders whose physical condition begins to deteriorate gradually due to illness.

BPM: Beats PerMinute ditches its political side to focus squarely on the relationship that emerges between these two men, Sean’s struggle to hold on to life, and the impact of his illness on his family, friends, and loved ones.

Carol (2015)

Directed by Todd Haynes, Carol is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that tells the story of a forbidden love affair between two women in the 1950s. Haynes, known for his unique approach to storytelling and penchant for period pieces, has established himself as a prominent figure in independent cinema.

The film features an exceptional cast led by Cate Blanchett as the titular character, Carol Aird, and Rooney Mara as Therese Belivet. Blanchett delivers a captivating performance as a wealthy woman navigating a tumultuous divorce, while Mara portrays a young aspiring photographer who becomes infatuated with Carol. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their performances are truly mesmerizing.

The plot of Carol revolves around the forbidden romance between Carol and Therese, who find solace and love in each other’s company despite the societal and personal challenges they face. The film beautifully captures the nuances of their relationship, exploring themes of desire, identity, and societal constraints with sensitivity and depth. The cinematography, costume design, and art direction are all exquisite, transporting viewers to the glamourous yet repressive world of 1950s New York.

Carol is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases Todd Haynes’ directorial prowess, outstanding performances from its cast, and a compelling story with important LGBTQ+ representation. It’s a beautifully crafted film that will captivate viewers with its stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and powerful storytelling. Highly recommended for those seeking a thought-provoking and visually arresting film.