There is nothing — and we mean nothing — better than watching a really well-made film. Unless, of course, you make it an LGBTQ+ film. In the summer of 2024, we’re all about taking time for yourself, celebrating who you are, and of course, kicking back with your family, your partner, or your queer mom friends to soak up queer representation of all kinds in film.
Whether you’re a queer mom looking for relaxing time, an ally of the LGBTQ+ community, or you’re looking to introduce your newly out friend to more representation, having a movie night could be just what you need.
That’s why, this year, we’re recommending ten amazing, sometimes heart wrenching (new and old!) films. Grab the popcorn, your favorite beverage, and make your weekly movie night choice one of these.
1. "Moonlight" (2016)
What some would call a masterpiece of contemporary cinema, "Moonlight" chronicles the life of a young African-American man grappling with his identity and sexuality while growing up in a rough neighborhood. With stunning visuals and a deeply resonant narrative, this film beautifully captures the complexities of queer identity.
2. "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" (2019)
A favorite of ours. Set in 18th-century France, this visually breathtaking film follows the forbidden romance between an artist and her subject. "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" explores desire, intimacy, and the constraints imposed by societal expectations with elegance and poignancy.
3. "Call Me by Your Name" (2017)
Against the sun-drenched backdrop of Italy, "Call Me by Your Name" delicately portrays the blossoming romance between a teenage boy and an older graduate student. This film is a sensory feast, capturing the fleeting intensity of first love and the ache of its inevitable end.
4. "The Handmaiden" (2016)
Directed by Park Chan-wook, "The Handmaiden" is a visually stunning tale of deceit, passion, and betrayal set in 1930s Korea. As the plot unfolds, so does an expectation and convention-defying love story between two women.
5. "Tangerine" (2015)
Shot entirely on iPhones, "Tangerine" is a vibrant and energetic film that follows two transgender women on a frenetic journey through Los Angeles on Christmas Eve. With its raw humor, this film offers a refreshing perspective on friendship and resilience.
6. "But I'm a Cheerleader" (1999)
A cult classic, "But I'm a Cheerleader" is a satirical comedy that follows a teenage cheerleader sent to a conversion therapy camp when her parents suspect she’s a lesbian. With its colorful aesthetic and sharp wit, this film delivers a powerful message wrapped in humor and heart.
7. "Pariah" (2011)
"Pariah" is a touching coming-of-age story that follows a young African-American lesbian navigating her identity and family expectations in Brooklyn. With its authentic portrayal of adolescence and superb performances, this film offers a deeply moving exploration of self-acceptance.
8. "Brokeback Mountain" (2005)
An oldie, but a goodie. Directed by Ang Lee, "Brokeback Mountain" is a landmark film that tells the poignant love story between two cowboys over the course of several decades. Set against the backdrop of the American West, this film explores themes of desire, repression, and the enduring power of love.
9. "The Way He Looks" (2014)
“The Way He Looks” is a Brazilian coming-of-age romantic drama that follows a blind high school student who begins to experience feelings for a new classmate. Along the way, it delicately portrays the challenges of adolescence and the exploration of sexual identity.
10. "Pride" (2014)
Based on a true story, "Pride" is a heartwarming comedy-drama that follows a group of LGBTQ+ activists who support striking miners in 1984 Wales. This film celebrates solidarity, friendship, and the power of community.