29 Best LGBTQ+ Movies To Stream In [Year]

by Viktoria Ivanova 42 views

Hey guys! Are you looking for some amazing movies that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community? You've come to the right place! We've compiled a list of 29 incredible LGBTQ+ films that you can stream right now. Get ready to laugh, cry, and feel all the feels with these fantastic stories.

Why LGBTQ+ Representation in Film Matters

First off, let's talk about why LGBTQ+ representation in film is so crucial. For years, LGBTQ+ stories were either completely absent from the screen or were relegated to stereotypes and harmful tropes. This lack of visibility had a significant impact on how LGBTQ+ individuals were perceived, both by themselves and by society as a whole.

Seeing ourselves represented in media is validating. It tells us that our experiences are real, that we're not alone, and that our stories matter. When LGBTQ+ characters are portrayed authentically and with depth, it helps to break down stereotypes, foster understanding, and promote acceptance. Films can be powerful tools for empathy, allowing viewers to step into someone else's shoes and see the world from a different perspective.

Moreover, LGBTQ+ films provide a space for LGBTQ+ filmmakers and actors to tell their own stories. This is incredibly important because it ensures that these stories are told with sensitivity and authenticity. It also helps to create opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals in the film industry, both in front of and behind the camera. By supporting LGBTQ+ cinema, we're not just watching movies; we're investing in a more inclusive and equitable future.

So, whether you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, watching LGBTQ+ films is a fantastic way to learn, connect, and celebrate the diversity of human experience. Now, let's dive into our list of 29 must-see movies!

Top 29 LGBTQ+ Movies You Can Stream Today

1. Moonlight (2016)

Moonlight is a groundbreaking film that tells the story of Chiron, a young Black man, as he grapples with his identity and sexuality across three defining chapters of his life. This movie is a true masterpiece, winning the Academy Award for Best Picture and captivating audiences with its poetic storytelling and stunning visuals.

What makes Moonlight so special is its nuanced portrayal of Chiron's emotional journey. The film doesn't shy away from the complexities of his experiences, exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery with remarkable sensitivity. The performances are simply outstanding, particularly Trevante Rhodes, André Holland, and Mahershala Ali, who each bring depth and vulnerability to their roles. Ali won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Juan, a drug dealer who becomes a father figure to Chiron.

Moonlight is more than just a coming-of-age story; it's a profound exploration of masculinity, identity, and the human need for connection. It challenges conventional notions of what it means to be a man and celebrates the beauty of vulnerability and self-acceptance. The film's visual style is also noteworthy, with director Barry Jenkins using vibrant colors and evocative imagery to create a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly complements the emotional landscape of the story. If you haven't seen Moonlight, you're in for a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience.

2. Call Me By Your Name (2017)

Call Me By Your Name is a beautiful and sensual coming-of-age story set in the idyllic Italian countryside during the summer of 1983. The film follows the blossoming romance between Elio, a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver, a 24-year-old graduate student who comes to stay with Elio's family. This movie is a true feast for the senses, with its stunning visuals, evocative soundtrack, and heartfelt performances.

Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer deliver magnetic performances as Elio and Oliver, capturing the intensity and vulnerability of first love with remarkable authenticity. The film's director, Luca Guadagnino, creates a world that is both romantic and nostalgic, immersing the viewer in the sights, sounds, and emotions of that unforgettable summer. The chemistry between Chalamet and Hammer is palpable, making their connection feel both believable and deeply affecting. Call Me By Your Name explores themes of desire, identity, and the ephemeral nature of love with a grace and sensitivity that is truly captivating.

What sets Call Me By Your Name apart is its unflinching portrayal of queer desire. The film doesn't shy away from the physical and emotional intimacy between Elio and Oliver, but it also treats their relationship with respect and tenderness. This is a story about two people falling in love, regardless of their gender, and it's a reminder of the universality of human connection. If you're looking for a movie that will sweep you away and leave you with a lingering sense of longing and nostalgia, Call Me By Your Name is a must-watch.

3. Love, Simon (2018)

Love, Simon is a charming and heartwarming coming-of-age story about a closeted gay teenager named Simon Spier. Simon's life is pretty typical: he has great friends, a loving family, and he's doing well in school. But he's also hiding a big secret, and the thought of coming out terrifies him. This movie is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a sweet and relatable portrayal of the challenges and joys of being a teenager.

What makes Love, Simon so special is its accessibility. It's a mainstream romantic comedy that just happens to feature a gay protagonist, making it a groundbreaking film in terms of representation. The movie doesn't shy away from the struggles that LGBTQ+ teens face, but it also emphasizes the importance of love, acceptance, and self-discovery. Nick Robinson delivers a fantastic performance as Simon, capturing his vulnerability, humor, and intelligence with grace. The supporting cast is also excellent, bringing to life a diverse and relatable group of characters.

Love, Simon is a feel-good movie that will leave you with a smile on your face. It's a reminder that everyone deserves to be loved and accepted for who they are, and it's a powerful message of hope for LGBTQ+ youth. If you're looking for a movie that is both entertaining and meaningful, Love, Simon is a perfect choice.

4. Paris Is Burning (1990)

Paris Is Burning is a powerful and influential documentary that offers a glimpse into the world of New York City's ballroom culture in the 1980s. This film is a true classic, providing a vibrant and moving portrait of a community of predominantly Black and Latinx LGBTQ+ individuals who found refuge and self-expression in the ballroom scene.

The documentary explores the complex social and economic realities faced by the members of this community, including issues of racism, homophobia, and transphobia. But it also celebrates their resilience, creativity, and joy. The film showcases the elaborate balls, where participants compete in various categories, showcasing their fashion, dance, and performance skills. Paris Is Burning is essential viewing for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history, culture, and activism.

What makes Paris Is Burning so impactful is its raw and honest portrayal of its subjects. The filmmakers allow the participants to speak for themselves, sharing their stories, dreams, and struggles with remarkable candor. The film also raises important questions about gender, sexuality, and identity, challenging viewers to think critically about these issues. Paris Is Burning is not just a documentary; it's a cultural document that continues to resonate with audiences today.

5. The Handmaiden (2016)

The Handmaiden is a visually stunning and suspenseful South Korean film that tells a twisted and captivating story of deception, desire, and liberation. Set in 1930s Korea under Japanese colonial rule, the film follows a young woman named Sook-Hee who is hired as a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress named Hideko. But Sook-Hee has a secret agenda: she's been hired by a con man to help him seduce Hideko and steal her fortune. This movie is a true masterpiece of cinematic storytelling, with its intricate plot twists, lush visuals, and compelling characters.

What makes The Handmaiden so special is its complex and subversive portrayal of female relationships. As Sook-Hee and Hideko grow closer, their relationship evolves beyond the initial deception, and they develop a deep and passionate connection. The film explores themes of power, manipulation, and female agency with remarkable nuance and intelligence. The performances are simply breathtaking, with Kim Min-hee and Kim Tae-ri delivering tour-de-force performances as Hideko and Sook-Hee, respectively.

The Handmaiden is a visually rich and emotionally resonant film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a story about women who defy societal expectations and find strength and liberation in each other's company. If you're looking for a movie that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, The Handmaiden is a must-see.

6-29. More LGBTQ+ Movie Recommendations

To keep this article concise, here's a list of other fantastic LGBTQ+ movies you should check out:

  • But I'm a Cheerleader (1999)
  • Brokeback Mountain (2005)
  • Carol (2015)
  • The Kids Are All Right (2010)
  • Pride (2014)
  • Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
  • A Fantastic Woman (2017)
  • God's Own Country (2017)
  • Weekend (2011)
  • Y Tu Mamá También (2001)
  • Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001)
  • The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
  • Bound (1996)
  • Saving Face (2004)
  • Pariah (2011)
  • Blue is the Warmest Color (2013)
  • Disobedience (2017)
  • Rafiki (2018)
  • A Secret Love (2020)
  • Happiest Season (2020)
  • Fire Island (2022)
  • Bros (2022)

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! 29 amazing LGBTQ+ movies that you can stream right now. These films offer a diverse range of stories, perspectives, and experiences, and they're all worth watching. Whether you're looking for romance, drama, comedy, or something thought-provoking, you're sure to find something on this list that you'll love. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to celebrate the power of LGBTQ+ storytelling!

Remember, watching these films is not just about entertainment; it's about supporting LGBTQ+ artists, fostering empathy, and promoting a more inclusive and accepting world. Happy watching!