There are some excellent gay movies out there; more recent ones include Moonlight, Brokeback Mountain, and Call Me By Your Name. These are important films addressing important topics, but let’s be honest: they’re not exactly a barrel of laughs.
Sometimes, you just want to snuggle up, order pizza and watch a movie that gets you chuckling. Don’t know where to begin? Well, luckily, we’ve got a list of the best gay-themed comedy movies to get you started – now you just need to get the popcorn and the blankets!
The portrayal of gay characters in popular media has come a long way in recent years, with a growing number of comedies featuring LGBTQ+ characters at the forefront. From witty comedies to full-fledged romantic storylines, these films are breaking down barriers and paving the way for more diverse representation in the entertainment industry.
As a testament to this progress, we have put together a list of the best gay comedies ever made. These films not only provide a comedic escape, but they also serve as a powerful tool for promoting acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to laugh as we dive into the list of the best gay comedies of all time.
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.
In this article we will cover...
- My Beautiful Laundrette (1985)
- Bros (2022)
- Jeffrey (1995)
- Fire Island (2022)
- The Birdcage (1996)
- The Thing About Harry (2020)
- But I’m a Cheerleader (1999)
- Single All the Way (2021)
- Touch of Pink (2004)
- Make The Yuletide Gay (2009)
- Pride (2014)
- Eating Out (2004)
- Love, Simon (2018)
- John Apple Jack (2013)
- You Should Meet My Son! (2010)
- Another Gay Movie (2006)
- My Fake Boyfriend (2022)
- The Way He Looks (2014)
- Romeos (2011)
My Beautiful Laundrette (1985)
This comedy-drama is set in London during the Thatcher years. Although it’s definitely one of the best gay love movies out there, sexuality is just one aspect of this film, which also explores what it meant to be Asian and British in Britain in the 1980s. It’s a little-known gem starring Daniel Day-Lewis as an ex-fascist gang member and Gordon Warnecke as a young Pakistani man running his family’s launderette.
The two had a relationship at school, and when they meet later, they resume this in secret: secrecy being necessary given the mood at the time and Omar’s conservative family. What makes this film so special is that it never gives in to cliché, mixing dark comedy and romance with commentary on racism, homophobia, and immigration. Daniel Day-Lewis brings his fascinating character to life (and it doesn’t hurt that he’s frequently shirtless, let’s be honest!). Watch it now!
Bros (2022)
Bros by Nicholas Stoller is an engaging and hilarious film that brilliantly depicts queer individuals in an accepting and respectful way. The film follows the story of two brothers, Peter and Michael, who are both gay and are trying to figure out how to fit into their conservative family.
Luke Macfarlane and Billy Eichner play the brothers. Macfarlane is an actor, musician, and producer who is best known for his roles in Brothers and Sisters and Quantico. Eichner is a comedian, actor, and writer. He is best known for his work on the comedy series Billy on the Street and for his role as Craig Middlebrooks on Parks and Recreation.
The film is full of comedic moments, with a clever script that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. From the awkward introductions of Peter and Michael to their parents to the hilarious moments of family bonding, Bros is sure to make audiences laugh. In addition to its comedic elements, the film also has a heartwarming message about acceptance and how important it is for us to be open and understanding of others.
The film is also notable for its portrayal of a normal gay family. It portrays the brothers as complex individuals with hopes, dreams, flaws, and strengths. This refreshingly honest depiction of queer individuals is something that many people can relate to.
Bros is an entertaining and thought-provoking movie that will delight viewers of all ages. It is full of fun and funny moments, but also has an important message about acceptance and understanding. Whether you are looking for an enjoyable comedy, or a meaningful story that will make you think, Bros is definitely worth watching.
Jeffrey (1995)
Jeffrey is a film directed by Christopher Ashley, who hails from Toronto. He is best known for his work as a theater director and has received several awards for his productions.
The film’s story is about a gay man named Jeffrey who, despite being HIV-positive, is determined to lead a fulfilling life. He is torn between his desire for love and the fear of losing his newfound partner to the disease. The main characters in the film are Jeffrey, his love interest Sterling, and his friends and family who support him on his journey.
What makes Jeffrey so funny is its use of humor to address serious topics such as the AIDS epidemic and gay rights. The film provides a lighthearted look at the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community while still acknowledging the importance of these issues.
The film is respectful towards queer people and serves as a powerful representation of the LGBTQ+ community. It celebrates the community’s diversity and resilience while highlighting the challenges they face.
I highly recommend Jeffrey to anyone looking for a touching, humorous, and empowering film. Whether you enjoy LGBTQ+ stories or appreciate a good comedy, this film is a must-watch. With its mix of humor and heart, Jeffrey is a testament to the power of love and the strength of the human spirit.
Fire Island (2022)
Fire Island, directed by Andrew Ahn, is a hilarious and thoughtful look at the queer community. Ahn, an award-winning director from Los Angeles, is best known for his 2016 film Spa Night, which explored the struggles of being an Asian-American immigrant trying to find his place in the world.
Fire Island follows three college roommates, Andy, Ollie and Jackson, who decide to spend the summer in Fire Island, a popular destination for LGBT vacationers. As they explore the party scene and find themselves in outrageous situations, the trio discovers more about their queerness, their relationship with each other and the struggles of growing up.
The film is particularly successful in its humorous and respectful portrayal of LGBT characters. Ahn succeeds in making the audience laugh, but also delves into more nuanced and thoughtful stories about gender identity and coming to terms with one’s sexuality. The characters are genuine and relatable, leading the viewer to cheer them on as they face the realities of growing up.
Fire Island is a smart and humorous look at the queer community, sure to bring laughter and emotion to all viewers. Ahn has crafted an incredibly entertaining and honest piece that, in the end, celebrates the joys and struggles of coming of age and being part of the LGBT community. It is an absolute must-watch that will leave audiences feeling proud of the characters and with a newfound appreciation for the LGBT community.
The Birdcage (1996)
Sometimes you want to watch something that’s just out-and-out fun, and The Birdcage is definitely pure entertainment. Robin Williams plays Armand, the openly gay owner of a drag club in South Beach, Miami, who lives with his partner Albert, whose drag persona is the club’s star attraction.
When Armand’s son announces his engagement, his fiancée’s super-conservative parents visit, leading to over-the-top farce and ridiculous deceptions. It’s witty; it’s bonkers; it’s hilarious: exactly what you need when you don’t fancy watching anything heavy. If you desire adding something with subtitles to your gay-themed movie list, how about watching the 1978 French-Italian original La Cage aux Folles? Watch it now!
The Thing About Harry (2020)
The Thing About Harry is a romantic comedy directed by Peter Paige, the creator of the hit TV show, Queer as Folk. This movie is based on Paige’s own experiences and follows the story of two men from different backgrounds who fall in love and must deal with the reactions of their friends and families.
The main characters of this film are Harry, a charming, hardworking gay man, and Ryan, an uptight, closeted gay man. Jake Borelli plays Harry, and Peter Paige himself portrays Ryan. The chemistry between the two is undeniable, bringing a unique, authentic feel to their relationship.
The film is a refreshing take on queer representation in the media, as it addresses various issues around sexuality, including coming out and navigating the different reactions of family and friends to it. It also shows the importance of accepting yourself and others for who they are.
The Thing About Harry is an entertaining, thought-provoking story that celebrates the importance of self-love and acceptance. It is a must-see film for anyone looking for a feel-good movie with an important message. We highly recommend it for its clever dialogue, stellar cast, and overall message of acceptance.
But I’m a Cheerleader (1999)
No list of gay comedy movies would be complete without this cult classic – which is also one of our favorite lesbian films of all time. Megan is a cheerleader whose family decides she’s gay and sends her to ‘True Directions,’ a conversion camp to get it coached out of her. Unsurprisingly, it backfires when she is attracted to a fellow camp member.
It’s unapologetically quirky, taking the quintessential American background and having fun with it, using a candy-colored retro aesthetic and off-the-wall scenarios. There’s a whole cast of camp characters making the most of the ridiculous premise and at the heart of the satire is a sweet gay love story that will warm the cockles of your heart. Watch it now!
Single All the Way (2021)
Single All the Way is a romantic comedy directed by the award-winning American filmmaker Michael Mayer. He is best known for his work on the hit TV series Glee. The movie tells the story of a young gay couple, played by Julian Dennison and Lilly Singh, who are struggling to make it work in a world that’s not always so accepting of their relationship.
The movie is incredibly funny, thanks to the sharp script and the actors’ committed performances. It also manages to represent queer people in a meaningful way, avoiding the stereotypical tropes that are often associated with LGBTQ+ films. The characters are well-written, and their relationship is portrayed honestly and realistically.
Single All the Way is a charming and hilarious film that never takes itself too seriously. It has something for everyone and will surely bring a smile to your face. It is a great way to spend an evening and highly recommended for its positive representation of queer people and charming storytelling. Whether you’re looking for a lighthearted romantic comedy, or just something that makes you laugh, Single All the Way is sure to deliver.
Touch of Pink (2004)
It might not have got the best reviews, but sometimes you need some good old escapism and Touch of Pink offers just that. The Cary Grant connection is there in the title (taken from That Touch of Mink) and in the regular appearance of the ghost of Cary Grant (see, I told you it was pure escapism).
Alim is a young gay man who moves from Toronto to London to escape his conservative family; unfortunately, this does not mean the end of his problems. Throughout his trials and tribulations, the spirit of Cary Grant appears to give him advice that often seems to hinder rather than help. It’s fluffy but big-hearted: don’t take it too seriously and you have the perfect gay-themed comedy movie for a Friday night in. Watch it now!
Make The Yuletide Gay (2009)
Directed by Rob Williams and released in 2009, Make The Yuletide Gay is a funny and heartwarming romantic comedy about finding love during the holiday season. Rob Williams is a Canadian director best known for his work on the hit Canadian television series, Little Mosque on the Prairie.
The film follows Oliver, a young gay man struggling to come out to his traditional family when it is not widely accepted. The story follows Oliver’s journey as he finally takes a stand for himself and his identity. Along the way, he meets a mysterious new love interest who helps him learn how to be true to himself and find the courage to come out.
Make The Yuletide Gay is a hilarious movie that also takes an important look at the struggles of the queer community, while still being respectful and sensitive to the issues. It portrays many of the struggles that LGBTQ+ people face humorously, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and the power of love.
This is an uplifting and enjoyable movie that everyone should watch. It offers an important message about self-acceptance and finding strength in ourselves. It also showcases the beauty of love and the power of it to bring people together regardless of their differences. If you’re looking for a light-hearted romantic comedy this season, Make The Yuletide Gay is the perfect choice.
Pride (2014)
If you enjoy British films like The Full Monty, Brassed Off and Billy Elliot, then Pride is a great option for your next gay-themed comedy movie night. It’s based on the true story of an alliance of gay and lesbian activists who raised money to help families affected by the 1984 miners’ strikes: an alliance like this hadn’t existed before due to the hostility between miners and the gay community.
The film manages to be funny and poignant at the same time. It addresses big issues with a light touch and a joyful screenplay. An all-star cast includes Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton and Dominic West. Set in London and Wales, there are also some entertaining scenes of Welsh villagers on a London pub crawl – one of the many moments that make this film a must-see. Watch it now!
Eating Out (2004)
Eating Out is a romantic comedy film directed by Q. Allan Brocka, an award-winning filmmaker from Los Angeles. Brocka is best known for his movies Boy Culture and Adam & Steve, which both explore LGBTQ+ themes. Eating Out is an equally delightful, though more light-hearted, exploration of queer culture.
The film follows three college students—Gina (Emily Brooke Hands), Tiffani (Rebekah Kochan), and Kyle (Jim Verraros)—who are struggling to find love. When Kyle meets the handsome Marc (Scott Lunsford), he tries to convince a hesitant Tiffani to pretend to be his girlfriend so Marc will be interested in him. A comedic love triangle ensues, as the three friends navigate this complicated situation.
Eating Out is a hilarious yet sincere approach to queer representation in media. The film is full of witty dialogue and laugh-out-loud situations, but it also tackles issues of coming out, acceptance, and identity. The film’s light-heartedness helps create a respectful atmosphere where talking about and exploring sensitive topics is safe.
Love, Simon (2018)
The thing about Love, Simon is that it’s really just your standard teen rom-com, but with a gay protagonist. It is the first major Hollywood film to focus on a gay teenage romance, bringing queer characters unashamedly into the mainstream and earning its place on any gay-themed movie list of the best gay comedy movies!
Simon is a closeted high school pupil in Atlanta, Georgia. When he discovers that someone else at his high school is also gay, he begins an anonymous email flirtation and takes steps towards finally being honest about who he is. It contains many tropes of teen movies – impassioned speeches at football matches, misunderstandings at Halloween parties – while treating its coming-out story with sensitivity and warmth. Watch it now!
John Apple Jack (2013)
Monika Mitchell is an American filmmaker who has been creating films since 2006. She is known for her humorous, thought-provoking films that often challenge the status quo. John Apple Jack is her most famous film, which is a joy to watch.
John Apple Jack tells the story of two best friends, Jack and John, who live in a small, conservative town in the Midwest. Jack is a gay teen who has to hide his sexuality from his family and friends, while John is a straight teen who is a bit of a rebel. Despite the pressures of their families and the expectations of the town, Jack and John become close friends and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
The film is a hilarious, heart-warming film that celebrates queer identities while being respectful to everyone. Monika Mitchell’s script and direction are excellent and engage the audience thoroughly. The film also has a stellar cast with amazing performances from the two lead actors, Josephine Langford and Travis Tope.
John Apple Jack is a must-see film for all ages. It is funny yet thought-provoking and is sure to leave you with a huge smile on your face. Monika Mitchell has created a masterpiece that celebrates the power of friendship and the importance of standing up for yourself. If you are looking for a great film to watch, then John Apple Jack is definitely the one for you.
You Should Meet My Son! (2010)
Keith Hartman’s You Should Meet My Son! is a hilarious and heartwarming comedy that follows the story of Brian, a young, gay man, and his parents, as they journey to find him a partner. The film is directed by Keith Hartman, a writer and director best known for his work on the television series The Middleman and the film Red Dirt.
The story takes place in the small town of Oceanside, California, and follows Brian and his parents, who are determined to find him a suitable partner before his thirtieth birthday. With the help of his parents and an unlikely group of allies, Brian embarks on a quest to find a man who will love him for who he is. Along the way, he learns important lessons about family, friendship, and self-acceptance.
You Should Meet My Son! is an incredibly funny film, with plenty of hilarious moments that will have you laughing out loud. Despite its lighthearted tone, the film also has a powerful message about accepting and respecting queer people. Hartman does an excellent job of incorporating this message into the story without making it too heavy-handed or preachy.
Another Gay Movie (2006)
The 2006 comedy Another Gay Movie, written and directed by Todd Stephens, was an instant hit among queer audiences. Stephens is an American filmmaker who has been making movies since the late nineties.
Another Gay Movie follows four gay high school friends, Andy, Jarod, Nico, and Griff, who decide to lose their virginity before the end of summer break. Their misadventures lead them to funny and awkward situations while searching for their first loves. Along the way, they deal with the realities of being queer in a heteronormative world, as well as their insecurities.
The movie is full of wacky humor, but also manages to represent queer people authentically and respectfully. It also features some great performances, including Jonathan Chase as Andy, and Mitch Morris as Jarod.
At times, Another Gay Movie might be a little too over-the-top, but that’s part of its charm. It’s a fresh and original take on queer representation that will leave you laughing and feeling inspired.
If you’re looking for a funny and light-hearted queer comedy, Another Gay Movie is definitely worth a watch. It’s a bold and imaginative take on queer representation that will entertain and uplift you.
My Fake Boyfriend (2022)
My Fake Boyfriend, directed by Rose Troche, is a hilarious and heartfelt queer-romantic comedy. Troche is an award-winning filmmaker from Chicago, best known for her hit 1994 film, Go Fish. With My Fake Boyfriend, Troche brings her signature wit and charm to the world of queer cinema.
The story follows Oliver, a gay man who creates a fake boyfriend to save face at a family reunion. He enlists the help of his best friend, Nick, to portray the role. Along the way, Oliver learns to be true to himself, and discovers an unlikely romance with Adrian, an attendee of the reunion.
The film’s witty dialogue, sharp editing, and charming performances make it a real treat to watch. Troche portrays the queer community with a respectful, but unapologetic eye. The characters feel real, the stakes are high, and the jokes land right on the mark.
My Fake Boyfriend is a delightful watch that proves that love and laughter can conquer anything. It’s a must-see for viewers of all orientations. So, grab a bowl of popcorn and prepare to be endeared – you won’t be disappointed.
The Way He Looks (2014)
The Way He Looks, directed by Brazilian filmmaker Daniel Ribeiro, is a charming and heart-warming coming-of-age film that centers around a blind teen named Leo and his struggles to find his place in the world.
Ribeiro is known for his thoughtful and sensitive approach to topics like sexuality, gender, and disability. His 2012 film I Don’t Want to Go Back Alone, focusing on a disabled teen, was well-received critically and earned him a film award nomination.
The Way He Looks follows the story of Leo, a blind high school student whose life is turned upside-down when a new student, Gabriel, arrives at his school. As Leo and Gabriel’s friendship grows, the two boys face challenges together and learn to rely on each other.
The film is a touching tribute to the power of friendship and is filled with hilarious moments of comedic relief in-between moments of poignancy. It is also a meaningful contribution to LGBTQ+ representation in film. The representation of queer people in the film is respectful and realistic, and it does an excellent job of showing the struggles and joys that come with being different in a world that we may not always understand.
The Way He Looks is a delightful and poignant film that should not be missed. It is an engaging and enjoyable watch that provides an important and meaningful representation of queer teenagers. It is both moving and funny in equal measure, leaving viewers feeling hopeful and warm. We highly recommend this film to anyone looking for an entertaining and heartfelt story.
Romeos (2011)
Romeos is a hilarious and poignant film directed by Sabine Bernardi and set in Germany. The film follows the story of Lukas, a young trans man living in a small, conservative town. When Lukas meets the alluring Ine, he may find the courage to explore his true identity and stand up for himself in the face of adversity.
Bernardi is renowned for her thoughtful, honest portrayals of queer characters and their struggles in conservative communities. She has received awards from film festivals worldwide for her work on the critically acclaimed feature films Fremde Haut and Coming Out. Her latest work, Romeos, is a masterful yet humorous approach to tackling the same issues.
The film follows the charming and endearing Lukas as he navigates his newfound identity and strives to find acceptance in his small rural town. He meets Ine, a passionate young woman determined to help him find his path. Together, they embrace the beauty of being different and challenge the status quo.
The film is both a laugh-out-loud comedy and a touching story of self-discovery. The characters are well-developed, and the story moves along at a fast pace. The script is witty, clever, and loaded with heartwarming moments. Bernardi’s treatment of queer people and their struggles is respectful, honest, and inspiring.
Romeos is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a lighthearted yet meaningful movie experience. The film is a fresh take on the struggles of self-discovery and is sure to captivate audiences. With its gentle humor and honest approach to queer issues, it is sure to inspire and delight. Highly recommended!