Here is a list of 32 LGBTQ movies and shows that celebrate the diversity and complexity of queer identities and experiences.
The LGBTQ community has been historically underrepresented and marginalized in mainstream media.
However, in recent years, there has been a surge of LGBTQ movies and shows that celebrate the diversity and complexity of queer identities and experiences.
With heartwarming romances, poignant dramas, teenage love and comedy, these movies and shows offer a glimpse into the lives, struggles, and joys of LGBTQ people across different cultures, eras, and genres.
Whether you are looking for something to inspire you, educate you, or entertain you, here are 32 best LGBTQ movies and shows to check out.
This film dives deep into the intense and passionate love story between two women, beautifully capturing the complexities of their relationship. It’s a raw and emotional portrayal of LGBTQ love and self discovery.
Set in the 1950s, ‘Carol’ gracefully unfolds the love affair between an aspiring photographer and an older woman going through a divorce. The film delicately explores the challenges of same sex love in a time when it was far from accepted.
This visually stunning film is a slow burning exploration of a forbidden love affair between a painter and her subject. It beautifully captures the nuances of desire and longing while portraying LGBTQ love in a captivating artistic manner.
A thought provoking and emotional narrative unfolds as a woman returns to the Orthodox Jewish community that shunned her for her attraction to a childhood friend, exploring themes of identity, religion, and sexuality.
Set in Italy during the 1980s, this film delicately captures the blossoming romance between a teenage boy and a visiting scholar. It’s a poignant exploration of first love and self discovery within the LGBTQ spectrum.
This groundbreaking film follows the lives of two cowboys who develop a passionate relationship in the 1960s but struggle to navigate their feelings amidst societal expectations. It’s a poignant exploration of forbidden love and the impact of societal norms on LGBTQ individuals.
A cult classic that celebrates diversity and fluidity, this musical extravaganza follows a newly engaged couple who find themselves in a bizarre world filled with unique characters and sexual exploration. It’s an iconic celebration of self expression and acceptance.
This heartwarming coming of age story revolves around a blind teenager who forms a deep connection with a new classmate, exploring themes of friendship, self discovery, and the complexities of young love within the LGBTQ spectrum.
Set in an Irish boarding school, this film follows the unlikely friendship between an ostracized student and a new rugby star. It beautifully portrays the challenges of embracing one’s identity and the power of solidarity in the face of adversity.
‘Shelter’ tells the story of a young man torn between familial responsibilities and his own dreams, finding solace and love with his best friend’s older brother. It’s a tender exploration of self discovery, family dynamics, and finding love amidst life’s challenges.
Set against the backdrop of rural Yorkshire, this film beautifully portrays the intense relationship between a young farmer and a migrant worker. It’s a raw and poignant exploration of love, identity, and the struggle for acceptance.
This heartfelt story revolves around a conservative Mormon missionary who finds himself drawn to his openly gay neighbor, leading to a touching exploration of faith, love, and acceptance.
13. Pride (2014)
Director: Matthew Warchus
Actors: Ben Schnetzer, Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton
Based on a true story, ‘Pride’ follows a group of LGBTQ activists who support striking miners in 1980s Britain. It’s a heartwarming and uplifting tale of solidarity, friendship, and the power of unity in the face of adversity.
This coming of age film centers on an introverted student who agrees to help a jock woo a girl they both secretly love, leading to unexpected bonds and self discovery. It’s a touching exploration of friendship, love, and the complexities of teenage identity.
A heartwarming romantic comedy about a high school student struggling with his identity while navigating the ups and downs of first love. ‘Love, Simon’ is a feel good film that celebrates the journey of self acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself.
Set in the early 1980s during the onset of the AIDS crisis, this powerful film follows a writer’s fight to raise awareness about the disease while dealing with personal heartaches. It’s a raw and emotional portrayal of the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on the LGBTQ community.
17. Happiest Season (2020)
Director: Clea DuVall
Actors: Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Dan Levy
In this holiday rom-com, a woman plans to propose to her girlfriend at her family’s Christmas gathering, only to discover her partner hasn’t come out to her conservative family yet. It’s a heartwarming and humorous story about love, acceptance, and the complexities of family dynamics during the holidays.
This hilarious comedy series takes a playful spin on LGBTQ themes as it follows the misadventures of a wealthy man who abandons his life to become a pirate. LGBTQ characters are represented with humor and authenticity, making it a joyous watch.
19. It’s a Sin (2021)
Actors: Olly Alexander, Omari Douglas, Callum Scott Howells
Set in the 1980s, this powerful drama sheds light on the devastating impact of the AIDS epidemic on a group of friends in London. It sensitively portrays LGBTQ individuals navigating love, friendship, and the tragic realities of the time.
20. The Owl House (2020-2023)
Actors: Sarah-Nicole Robles, Wendie Malick, Alex Hirsch
In this enchanting animated series, LGBTQ representation is seamlessly woven into the storyline, following a teenage girl who discovers a magical realm and embraces her own identity while navigating a world filled with mythical creatures.
Set in the ’90s, this coming of age series beautifully explores the journey of high school students discovering their sexual orientation. It authentically portrays LGBTQ experiences amidst the backdrop of adolescence and teenage angst.
A fresh look at Hartley High over 20 years on. With her new friends, outsiders Quinni and Darren, Amerie must repair her reputation, while navigating love, sex, and heartbreak. (from imdb)
Álex has just suffered a love disappointment and sends a voice message to his boyfriend in anger but the voice is received by Bruno. This mistake ends up making them meet and what begins as a date ends up having greater significance. (from imdb)
24. Big Boys (2022-present)
Actors: Dylan Llewellyn, Jon Pointing, Camille Coduri
Shy, closeted Jack has spent the past year at home with his mum. He’s been grieving for his father but the time has come for him to take his place at uni where he meets his roommate mature student Danny and an unlikely friendship develops. (from imdb)
25. Dickinson (2019-2021)
Actors: Hailee Steinfeld, Jane Krakowski, Ella Hunt
This inventive series reimagines the life of Emily Dickinson, exploring her personal journey, including her relationships and conflicts with societal norms. It touches upon LGBTQ themes within the context of the poet’s unconventional life.
A heartfelt and humorous series that candidly portrays the life of a young man navigating relationships, friendships, and his own sexuality. It offers an honest and refreshing take on LGBTQ experiences with a mix of wit and emotional depth.
This series follows the life of a Canadian comedian living in London, exploring her romantic relationship with a woman while navigating addiction and the complexities of modern love. It authentically delves into LGBTQ themes with humor and emotional depth.
‘Sex Education’ beautifully weaves LGBTQ representation into its storyline, following a teenager who sets up an underground sex therapy clinic at his high school. It sensitively explores diverse sexualities and identities among its ensemble cast.
30. Love, Victor (2020-2022)
Actors: Michael Cimino, Rachel Hilson, Anthony Turpel
A spin off of the film ‘Love, Simon,’ this series follows a high school student navigating his journey of self discovery and coming to terms with his sexual orientation. It sensitively portrays LGBTQ experiences within the realm of teenage relationships.
31. Skam (2015-2017)
Actors: Josefine Frida Pettersen, Iman Meskini, Tarjei Sandvik Moe
A Norwegian teen drama that candidly explores the lives of high school students dealing with various issues, including sexuality, relationships, and societal pressures. It bravely delves into LGBTQ themes, resonating with authenticity.
32. Heartstopper (2022-present)
Actors: Kit Connor, Joe Locke, Yasmin Finney, William Gao
This series adaptation of the beloved graphic novels authentically portrays the budding romance between two male students at an all boys school. It tenderly navigates themes of love, self discovery, and acceptance within the LGBTQ spectrum.
These are just some of the many LGBTQ movies and shows that you can watch and enjoy.
They showcase the diversity and richness of queer stories and perspectives, and challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that often plague the media representation of LGBTQ people.
By watching these movies and shows, you can not only support the LGBTQ community, but also learn more about yourself and others.
We hope you find something that resonates with you and makes you feel seen and heard. Happy watching!
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Tiffany is a female entrepreneur who has been in the movie business since 2005.
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