Pride Month Picks: 15 LGBTQ+ Movies to Stream Right Now

From classics to contemporary hits, dive into this curated list of queer cinema perfect for Pride Month

Happy Pride, everyone! Whether you're interested in discovering new favorites or revisiting beloved classics, this listicle will guide you through 15 essential LGBTQ+ films you can stream this Pride Month. I've compiled a list of 15 great introductory films you can stream to celebrate Pride. These films feature LGBTQ+ storytellers and cover a diverse range of genres, styles, and filmmakers. I've also included information about the streaming platforms where you can find these films.

Keep in mind that this list is by no means comprehensive! Feel free to share your recommendations for positive representation of queer filmmaking in the comments because I'd love to watch them! I believe that one of the best and easiest ways to combat stereotyping and encourage positive, effective change is by supporting authentic storytellers and their art.

So grab some popcorn, get comfy, and let's dive into this collection of queer cinema!

Torch Song Trilogy (1988)

Arnold Beckoff is looking for love and acceptance, but as a gay man working as a female impersonator in 1970s New York City, neither comes easily. After a series of heartaches, Arnold believes he has found the love of his life in Alan, and the couple makes plans to adopt. But when tragedy strikes, Arnold's life is shaken to its very core, leading to a confrontation with his overbearing mother, who has never approved of her son's lifestyle.

Director: Paul Bogart 

Screenwriter: Harvey Fierstein

Starring: Harvey Fierstein, Anne Bancroft, Matthew Broderick, Brian Kerwin, Karen Young, Eddie Castrodad, Ken Page, Charles Pierce & Axel Vera

Where to Watch: Amazon 

Why It's Essential: Torch Song Trilogy, based on Harvey Fierstein's award-winning play, offered a groundbreaking portrayal of gay life at a time when LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media was rare, particularly without stereotypes or derogatory elements. The film's release was a big deal for LGBTQ+ cinema, increasing visibility and understanding within the community. Torch Song Trilogy has had a lasting impact on both the LGBTQ+ community and the broader cultural landscape by offering a sincere and authentic portrayal of gay life, which in turn paved the way for more LGBTQ+ stories in film and television. Its success demonstrated the demand for such stories and an audience ready to embrace them, inspiring more filmmakers to delve into LGBTQ+ themes.

Additional Viewing: The Boys in the Band (1970; 2020) | Longtime Companion (1989) | Rent (2005)

Did You Know? The original Broadway production of "Torch Song Trilogy" by Harvey Fierstein opened at the Little Theater in New York on June 10, 1982. It ran for 1,222 performances until it closed on May 10, 1985. The play won the 1983 Tony Awards for Best Play and Best Actor in a Play.

Paris is Burning (1990)

This documentary focuses on drag queens living in New York City and their "house" culture, which provides a sense of community and support for the flamboyant and often socially shunned performers. Groups from each house compete in elaborate balls that take cues from the world of fashion. The film also touches on issues of racism and poverty and features interviews with several renowned drag queens, including Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, and Dorian Corey.

Director: Jennie Livingston 

Featuring: Dorian Corey, Pepper LaBeija, Venus Xtravaganza, Octavia St. Laurent, Carmen Xtravaganza, Willi Ninja, Angie Xtravaganza, Sol Pendavis Williams, Freddie Pendavis & Junior Labeija

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max

Why It's Essential: Paris is Burning offers a close-up view of the drag ball scene in New York City during the 1980s, focusing on the intersectionality of the African American, Latino, gay, and transgender communities. It captures a crucial time in LGBTQ+ history, highlighting these marginalized groups' creativity, resilience, and spirit. The documentary sheds light on a dynamic subculture that has significantly impacted pop culture, including fashion, language, and performance art. Paris is Burning has left a lasting mark on LGBTQ+ culture and beyond. For example, phrases and concepts from the ballroom scene, like "voguing," "shade," and "realness," have made their way into everyday language, mostly thanks to the documentary's visibility. The film has influenced many artists, musicians, and filmmakers and is still a key topic in discussions about LGBTQ+ representation and cultural appropriation.

Additional Viewing: Kiki (2016) | The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (2017) | Pose (2018-2021)

Did You Know? In 2016, the United States Library of Congress selected Paris is Burning for preservation in the National Film Registry.

To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (1995)

Elite Manhattan drag queens Vida Boheme and Noxeema Jackson impress regional judges in competition, securing berths in the Nationals in Los Angeles. When the two meet pathetic drag novice Chi-Chi Rodriguez—one of the losers that evening—the charmed Vida and Noxeema agree to take the hopeless youngster under their joined wing. Soon, the three set off on a madcap road trip across America and struggle to make it to Los Angeles on time.

Director: Beeban Kidron

Screenwriter: Douglas Carter Beane

Starring: Wesley Snipes, Patrick Swayze, John Leguizamo, Stockard Channing, Blythe Danner, Arliss Howard, Jason London, Chris Penn, Melinda Dillon, Marceline Hugot, Mike Hodge, Jamie Harrold, Beth Grant, Alice Drummond, Michael Vartan & Jennifer Milmore

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | YouTube

Elite Manhattan drag queens Vida Boheme (Swayze) and Noxeema Jackson (Snipes) impress regional judges in competition, securing berths in the Nationals in Los Angeles. When the two meet pathetic drag novice Chi-Chi Rodriguez (Leguizamo)—one of the losers that evening—the charmed Vida and Noxeema agree to take the hopeless youngster under their joined wing. Soon, the three set off on a madcap road trip across America and struggle to make it to Los Angeles on time.

Additional Viewing: The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994) | The Birdcage (1996) | Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001) | Kinky Boots (2005)

Why It's Essential: To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar offers a joyful, positive, and impactful portrayal of drag culture and LGBTQ+ themes. This positive representation was significant in the mid-1990s, especially considering the lack of mainstream films that highlighted drag culture in such a celebratory and empathetic manner. While the film itself may feel dated to a modern audience, its universal messages of acceptance, transformation, and empowerment resonate deeply with the spirit of Pride, making it a beloved cult favorite in LGBTQ+ cinematic history.

Did You Know? Wong Foo, also known as "Fooey" among his friends, was the head bartender at the China Bowl restaurant in New York City, just east of Broadway. Though the restaurant closed in 1993, in its heyday, its walls were adorned with headshots of famous actors and actresses who had visited. The movie's title was inspired by an autographed picture of Julie Newmar, which author Douglas Carter Beane spotted on the wall of the China Bowl in the mid-1980s.

The Watermelon Woman (1996)

Cheryl, a video store clerk and aspiring director whose interest in forgotten Black actresses leads her to investigate an obscure 1930s performer known as the "Watermelon Woman," whose story proves to have surprising resonances with Cheryl's own life as she navigates a new relationship with a white girlfriend. Balancing breezy romantic comedy with a serious inquiry into the history of Black and queer women in Hollywood, The Watermelon Woman slyly rewrites long-standing constructions of race and sexuality on-screen, introducing an important voice in American cinema.

Director & Screenwriter: Cheryl Dunye

Starring: Cheryl Dunye, Guinevere Turner, Valarie Walker, Lisa Marie Bronson, Cheryl Clarke, Irene Dunye, Brian Freeman, Ira Jeffries, Alexandra Juhasz & Camille Paglia

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max

Why It's Essential: The Watermelon Woman is an important movie because it's the first feature film directed by an out Black lesbian, Cheryl Dunye. It's a big deal in LGBTQ+ cinema because it gives a voice and representation to Black lesbians, who often get overlooked in both mainstream and LGBTQ+ media. The film shines a light on the forgotten stories of Black women in Hollywood and their impact on the film industry. Through the character of "The Watermelon Woman," Dunye stresses the need to uncover and preserve the stories of marginalized individuals. This film is crucial to LQBTQ+ media because it recognizes the progress made in diverse representation.

Additional Viewing: The Owls (2010) | Pariah (2011) | The Incredible Jessica James (2017)

Did You Know? According to director and writer Cheryl Dunye, much about the character she plays in the film is autobiographical, but the historical references to the Watermelon Woman are fictional: "The Watermelon Woman came from the real lack of any information about the lesbian and film history of African-American women. Since it wasn't happening, I invented it."

But I'm a Cheerleader (1999)

Megan considers herself a typical American girl. She excels in school and cheerleading and has a handsome football-playing boyfriend, even though she isn't crazy about him. So she's stunned when her parents decide she's gay and send her to True Directions, a boot camp meant to alter her sexual orientation. While there, Megan meets a rebellious and unashamed teen lesbian, Graham. Though Megan still feels confused, she starts to have feelings for Graham.

Director: Jamie Babbit

Screenwriter: Brian Wayne Peterson

Starring: Natasha Lyonne, Clea DuVall, Melanie Lynskey, RuPaul, Eddie Cibrian, Wesley Mann, Richard Moll, Douglas Spain, Katharine Towne & Cathy Moriarty

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Paramount+

Why It's Essential: But I'm a Cheerleader uses satirical humor to address serious topics like conversion therapy and strict gender roles. It shows positive and supportive LGBTQ+ representation and celebrates themes of empowerment and self-acceptance. Since its release, But I'm a Cheerleader has achieved cult classic status because of its quirky humor, unique visual style, and memorable performances. Its lasting popularity shows its impact and relevance, making it an important part of LGBTQ+ cinematic history.

Additional Viewing: The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018) | Booksmart (2019) | The Half of It (2020)

Did You Know? The day before shooting, lead Natasha Lyonne had gotten drunk and was tattooed on her back shoulder at a shop on Hollywood Boulevard. Director Jamie Babbit was distraught because Lyonne had to film scenes in a sports bra doing cheer routines. Babbit allegedly said to Lyonne, "How could you do this?" and Lyonne responded, "I don't know what happened!"

Boys Don't Cry (1999)

Young female-to-male transgender Brandon Teena leaves his hometown under threat when his ex-girlfriend's brother discovers that he's biologically female. Resettling in the small town of Falls City, Nebraska, Brandon falls for Lana, an aspiring singer, and begins planning their future together. But things change very quickly when her ex-convict friends, John and Tom, learn Brandon's secret.

Director: Kimberly Peirce

Screenwriter: Kimberly Peirce & Andy Bienen

Starring: Hilary Swank, Chloë Sevigny, Peter Sarsgaard, Brendan Sexton III, Alison Folland, Alicia Goranson, Matt McGrath, Rob Campbell & Jeannetta Arnette

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Hulu

Why It's Essential: Based on the true story of Brandon Teena, a young trans man who was brutally murdered in 1993 in Nebraska, Boys Don't Cry brought attention to the real struggles and violence faced by transgender individuals. Hillary Swank's Oscar-winning performance in Boys Don't Cry was one of the first major films to focus on the life of a transgender person, thus playing a significant role in bringing trans issues to the forefront of mainstream media and highlighting the need for legal and social reforms to protect the rights and dignity of transgender people. While Boys Don't Cry may seem outdated to modern audiences, the film remains a crucial part of LGBTQ+ cinema.

Additional Viewing: The Brandon Teena Story (1998) | Transamerica (2005) | The Danish Girl (2015)

Did You Know? To prepare for her role, Hilary Swank lived as a man for at least a month, wrapping her chest in tension bandages and putting socks down the front of her pants, much like Brandon Teena did. Swank's neighbors believed the young man coming and going from her home was her visiting brother.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

In 1963, rodeo cowboy Jack Twist and ranch hand Ennis Del Mar are hired by rancher Joe Aguirre as sheep herders in Wyoming. Jack makes a drunken pass at Ennis one night on Brokeback Mountain that is eventually reciprocated. Though Ennis marries his longtime sweetheart, Alma, and Jack marries a fellow rodeo rider, Lureen, the two men keep up their tortured and sporadic affair over the course of 20 years.

Director: Ang Lee

Screenwriter: Larry McMurtry & Diana Ossana

Starring: Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Williams, Anne Hathaway, Randy Quaid, Linda Cardellini, Anna Faris, David Harbour, Roberta Maxwell, Peter McRobbie, Kate Mara, Scott Michael Campbell, Graham Beckel, Mary Liboiron, Larry Reese & Marty Antonini

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Peacock | YouTube

Why It's Essential: Brokeback Mountain was definitely a game-changer in LGBTQ+ cinema. It was one of the first major Hollywood films to focus on a same-sex romantic relationship, bringing LGBTQ+ themes into the mainstream like few films had before. This representation was vital in breaking down barriers and challenging the lack of visibility for LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream cinema. Critics and audiences praised the film for its innovative representation, intricate storytelling, and gorgeous cinematography. The film explores themes such as internalized homophobia, societal pressure, and the deconstruction of stereotypes. Combined with its emotional depth and top-notch filmmaking, Brokeback Mountain is an incredible film.

Additional Viewing: Maurice (1987) | My Own Private Idaho (1991) | God's Own Country (2017)

Did You Know? Writer Annie Proulx sent Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger an original, autographed copy of her story. When she signed the copy to Gyllenhaal, she wrote "To Jake...," but when she signed the copy she had intended to give to Ledger, she signed it "To Ennis." After writing out her personal message, she realized what she had done and decided to let it be. At a private screening at Arclight in Hollywood, California, she reflected that Heath Ledger really was Ennis. She left the signed copy that way because she felt the actor embodied Ennis in every way she had imagined him.

Milk (2008)

In 1972, Harvey Milk and his then-lover Scott Smith left New York for San Francisco, with Milk determined to accomplish something meaningful in his life. Settling in the Castro District, he opens a camera shop and helps transform the area into a mecca for gays and lesbians. In 1977, he became the nation's first openly gay man elected to a notable public office when he won a seat on the Board of Supervisors. The following year, Dan White kills Milk in cold blood.

Director: Gus Van Sant

Screenwriter: Dustin Lance Black

Starring: Sean Penn, Emile Hirsch, Josh Brolin, Diego Luna, James Franco, Alison Pill, Victor Garber, Denis O'Hare, Joseph Cross, Stephen Spinella, Lucas Grabeel, Jeff Koons, Ashlee Temple & Wendy Tremont King

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | YouTube

Why It's Essential: Milk recounts the story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, whose activism was pivotal in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the 1970s. The film offers a glimpse into the historical context of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and shows how political activism can make a real difference by enacting social change. By portraying Milk's life and legacy, the film commemorates an important moment in LGBTQ+ history. Milk was a critical and commercial success, receiving eight Academy Award nominations and winning Oscars for screenwriter Dustin Lance Black and lead actor Sean Penn.

Additional Viewing: The Times of Harvey Milk (1984) | The Normal Heart (2014) | Stonewall (2015)

Did You Know? Some of the clothes Sean Penn wore in the movie were borrowed from Gilbert Baker, a friend of Harvey Milk. Baker's involvement as the creator of the Rainbow Flag, a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community, added to the film's authenticity.

Carol (2015)

Based on the 1952 romance novel The Price of Salt by Patricia Highsmith, aspiring photographer Therese spots the beautiful, elegant Carol perusing the doll displays in a 1950s Manhattan department store. The two women develop a fast bond that becomes a love with complicated consequences.

Director: Todd Haynes

Screenwriter: Phyllis Nagy

Starring: Cate Blanchett, Rooney Mara, Sarah Paulson, Jake Lacy, John Magaro, Cory Michael Smith, Carrie Brownstein, Kevin Crowley, Nik Pajic & Kyle Chandler

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Hulu

Why It's Essential: Carol is an influential addition to LGBTQ+ cinema thanks to its authentic and respectful portrayal of a lesbian relationship. The movie delves deep into the emotional complexities and challenges the characters face within the societal constraints of the 1950s. The film pays attention to every little period detail, the cinematography is on point, and the music adds so much to the overall experience. Most importantly, Carol celebrates LGBTQ+ love and showcases the beauty and authenticity of these relationships. Its impact on visibility and acceptance in the cinematic world is extensive, as it has contributed to a more inclusive representation of LGBTQ+ experiences in media. Furthermore, the movie's influence on future LGBTQ+ storytelling is evident, inspiring more authentic portrayals in cinema.

Additional Viewing: Desert Hearts (1985) | Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013) | Disobedience (2017)

Did You Know? Cate Blanchett's character, Carol Aird, was inspired by Virginia Kent Catherwood, a Philadelphia socialite six years older than Patricia Highsmith, with whom the author had a love affair in the 1940s. Catherwood lost custody of her daughter after her homosexuality was used against her. This was evidenced by a taped recording of a lesbian liaison she had in a hotel room.

Tangerine (2015)

Sin-Dee is back. Upon hearing that her pimp boyfriend was unfaithful during the days she was jailed, the sex worker and her friend, Alexandra, set out to get to the bottom of this. Their odyssey leads them through the subcultures of Los Angeles.

Director: Sean Baker

Screenwriter: Sean Baker & Chris Bergoch

Starring: Kitana Kiki Rodriguez, Mya Taylor, Karren Karagulian, Mickey O'Hagan, Alla Tumanian & James Ransone

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Netflix | Tubi | YouTube

Why It's Essential: Tangerine is known for its realistic portrayal of transgender characters, specifically trans women of color. The story follows Sin-Dee Rella (played by Kitana Kiki Rodriguez) and Alexandra (played by Mya Taylor), two trans sex workers navigating life in Los Angeles. By showing their experiences with understanding and depth, Tangerine helps raise awareness and understanding of trans characters in film. The film's unique approach to filmmaking also gained attention; it was entirely shot using iPhones, capturing the raw energy and intimacy of the characters' lives on the streets of Los Angeles. This decision not only reflects the film's indie, low-budget spirit but also aligns with its genuine portrayal of marginalized communities. The film's cultural critique, praise from critics, and impact on LGBTQ+ filmmaking establish its significance as a meaningful work within the LGBTQ+ cinematic landscape.

Additional Viewing: Red Rocket (2021) | Mutt (2023) | Kokomo City (2023)

Did You Know? Director Sean Baker shot Tangerine exclusively on three iPhone 5s smartphones, the Moondog Labs' anamorphic clip-on lens, a $8 app, FiLMiC Pro, and Steadicam Smoothee Mounts.

Moonlight (2016)

Based on the unproduced play "In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue" by 2013 MacArthur Fellows Program honoree Tarell Alvin McCraney, Moonlight offers a look at three defining chapters in the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in Miami. His epic journey to manhood is guided by the kindness, support, and love of the community that helps raise him.

Director & Screenwriter: Barry Jenkins

Starring: Trevante Rhodes, André Holland, Janelle Monáe, Ashton Sanders, Jharrel Jerome, Naomie Harris & Mahershala Ali

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max | Hulu

Why It's Essential: Moonlight tells the story of Chiron, a young African American man figuring out his identity and sexuality in a tough neighborhood in Miami. The movie shows the struggles of Black queer identity with understanding and truth, shining a light on experiences that are often ignored in mainstream media. By focusing on Chiron's journey, Moonlight gives a voice to Black LGBTQ+ individuals and their unique challenges. The film is an essential addition to LGBTQ+ cinema as it offers a profound exploration of Black queer identity, highlights intersectional themes, and conveys emotional depth through its artistic excellence. Its powerful storytelling and nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's journey confirm its place as a powerful and influential work in LGBTQ+ cinema history.

Additional Viewing: Brother to Brother (2004) | Gun Hill Road (2011) | Rafiki (2018)

Did You Know? During a Q&A at the BFI in London, Director Barry Jenkins confirmed that Moonlight was filmed on a $1.5 million budget. This budget is lower than any other Best Picture winner since Rocky (1976), which reportedly cost $1.1 million. When adjusted for inflation, Moonlight is the Best Picture winner with the lowest budget. The budget was so tight that the cast had to share one trailer for costume, hair, and makeup, and one restroom stall had to be shared by the cast and crew.

A Fantastic Woman [Una mujer fantástica] (2017)

Marina, a transgender waitress and nightclub singer, and Orlando, her older boyfriend, are in love and planning for the future. After Orlando suddenly falls ill and dies, Marina is forced to confront his family and society and to fight again to show them who she is: complex, strong, forthright, fantastic.

Director: Sebastián Lelio

Screenwriter: Sebastián Lelio & Gonzalo Maza

Starring: Daniela Vega, Francisco Reyes & Luis Gnecco

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Netflix | Peacock | YouTube

Why It's Essential: A Fantastic Woman centers on Marina, a trans woman played by Daniela Vega, navigating grief and discrimination after the sudden death of her partner. The film provides a sensitive and authentic portrayal of Marina's experiences as a transgender individual, addressing issues of identity, resilience, and societal prejudice. By depicting Marina's journey with empathy and complexity, the film provides greater visibility and helps people understand more about trans experiences through cinema. Its representation and advocacy, especially from an international perspective, make A Fantastic Woman an important work in LGBTQ+ cinema.

Additional Viewing: Tomboy (2011) | My Tender Matador [Tengo Miedo Torero] (2020) | Lola (2024)

Did You Know? Daniela Vega was initially brought on board as a script consultant for the film. Despite not having acted before, she impressed director Sebastián Lelio with her insights into the Chilean transgender community and was ultimately offered the lead role. A Fantastic Woman went on to become the first Chilean movie to win an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

Call Me by Your Name (2017)

It's the summer of 1983, and precocious 17-year-old Elio Perlman is spending the days with his family at their 17th-century villa in Lombardy, Italy. He soon meets Oliver, a handsome doctoral student working as an intern for Elio's father. Amid the sun-drenched splendor of their surroundings, Elio and Oliver discover the heady beauty of awakening desire over the course of a summer that will alter their lives forever.

Director: Luca Guadagnino

Screenwriter: James Ivory

Starring: Armie Hammer, Timothée Chalamet, Michael Stuhlbarg, Amira Casar, Esther Garrel & Victoire Du Bois

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Netflix 

Why It's Essential: At its core, Call Me by Your Name is a touching love story between Elio (played by Timothée Chalamet), a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver (played by Armie Hammer), a 24-year-old graduate student. The film sensitively portrays their evolving relationship over a summer in Italy, capturing their romance's intensity, passion, and emotional complexities. The film also delves into themes of identity, desire, and sexual awakening with subtlety and nuance. Elio's journey of self-discovery and coming to terms with his sexuality is portrayed with sensitivity, reflecting the universal experiences of questioning, yearning, and self-acceptance. Call Me by Your Name celebrates the beauty of intimacy and vulnerability in LGBTQ+ relationships and the universal discovery of young love.

Additional Viewing: Weekend (2011) | Love, Simon (2018) | Summer of 85 (2020)

Did You Know? In 2018, Call Me by Your Name was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Timothée Chalamet, and Best Original Song for Sufjan Stevens' "Mystery of Love," and won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for James Ivory. At 89, Ivory became the oldest winner of a competitive Oscar, surpassing the achievement of 87-year-old music composer Ennio Morricone.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire [Portrait de la jeune fille en feu] (2019)

France, 1770. Marianne, a painter, is commissioned to paint the wedding portrait of Héloïse, a young woman who has just left the convent. Héloïse is a reluctant bride-to-be, and Marianne must paint her without her knowing. Day by day, the two women become closer as they share Héloïse's last moments of freedom before the impending wedding.

Director & Screenwriter: Céline Sciamma

Starring: Noémie Merlant, Adèle Haenel, Luàna Bajrami & Valeria Golino 

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Hulu | YouTube

Why It's Essential: Directed and written by Céline Sciamma, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is notable for its female-centric narrative and perspective. The film centers on the love affair between Marianne (played by Noémie Merlant), a painter, and Héloïse (played by Adèle Haenel), a reluctant bride-to-be. The film portrays their relationship with depth and authenticity, emphasizing the emotional and physical intimacy between the two women. Portrait of a Lady on Fire explores themes of agency, autonomy, and self-discovery through the lens of its female protagonists. By putting the experiences and emotions of its female characters first, the film challenges traditional patriarchal narratives and conventions, offering a feminist perspective on love and desire.

Additional Viewing: The Secret Diaries of Miss Anne Lister (2010) | Tell It to the Bees (2018) | Ammonite (2020)

Did You Know? The paintings by Marianne were all created by painter Hélène Delmaire, with whom Noémie Merlant worked closely to inform her character's perspectives and sight lines when painting.

Shiva Baby (2020)

While at a Jewish funeral service with her parents, college student Danielle has an awkward encounter with Max, her sugar daddy, and Maya, her ex-girlfriend.

Director & Screenwriter: Emma Seligman

Starring: Rachel Sennott, Molly Gordon, Polly Draper, Danny Deferrari, Fred Melamed & Dianna Agron

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max | Hulu

Why It's Essential: Shiva Baby follows Danielle (played by Rachel Sennott), a young bisexual woman, as she deals with the complexities of her personal and family life during a shiva (a Jewish mourning ritual). The film shows Danielle's relationships with her ex-girlfriend Maya (played by Molly Gordon) and her sugar daddy Max (played by Danny Deferrari), portraying bisexuality in a more genuine way that challenges stereotypes and brings greater visibility to bi characters and their experiences. Shiva Baby also explores the intersectionality of Danielle's identity as a bisexual Jewish woman, delving into the cultural and familial expectations placed on her and highlighting the tension between her personal desires and societal pressures. By addressing these intersecting aspects of her identity, the film provides a layered and multifaceted portrayal of navigating multiple, often conflicting, aspects of oneself in a humorous and relatable way.

Additional Viewing: Saving Face (2004) | Bottoms (2023)

Did You Know? Except for some of the producers, all the essential crew members were women, including writer and director Emma Seligman, cinematographer Maria Rusche, editor Hanna Park, composer Ariel Marx, casting director Kate Geller, production designer Cheyenne Ford, and costume designer Michelle J. Li.

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Thanks for taking the time to read and celebrate LGBTQ+ films. I hope that one (or more!) of the films highlighted on this list ends up on your watchlist soon. Don't forget to share your favorite LGBTQ+ films in the comment section below, and let's keep supporting and promoting diversity in cinema together.