99 Essential LGBTQ+ Films
98 titles
- 1
Heavenly CreaturesMovie · 1994 · 109m · Drama, FantasyJuliet, a bright but sheltered teenager from England, moves to New Zealand with her family and struggles to adjust. She develops a close friendship with Pauline, a quiet local girl who shares her love of books and storytelling.
Their bond deepens as they find comfort in each other's company, inspired by their imaginations and favorite stories. But their parents worry about how intensely the girls are connected and if it's holding them back. Afraid of being separated or interfered with, Juliet and Pauline devise a risky plan that challenges their friendship and reveals the darker side of intense loyalty. This story explores themes of love, betrayal, and growing up, showing how far young people will go to protect the relationships they value most.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 2
PaulineMovie · 2009 · 8m · DramaA young woman recounts her upbringing marked by neglect and loneliness.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1 - 3
SummertimeMovie · 2015 · 105m · Drama, RomanceIn 1971, a young woman leaves her rural life in France for Paris and develops a passionate romantic relationship with a prominent feminist activist.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 4
Reaching for the MoonMovie · 2013 · 118m · Drama, RomanceIn 1951, New York poet Elizabeth Bishop visits her college friend Mary in Rio de Janeiro. The reserved Elizabeth is struck by the city’s vibrant atmosphere. She stands in contrast to Mary’s glamorous partner, architect Lota de Macedo Soares. Mary feels jealous, but Lota is determined to be involved with both women. This complex relationship unfolds as Brazil experiences the 1964 military coup. The film centers on Elizabeth Bishop's poignant poetry and offers a vivid look at a significant period in the life of this acclaimed Pulitzer Prize-winning poet.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 5
Thelma & LouiseMovie · 1991 · 130m · Drama, Crime, AdventureThelma and Louise, two close friends, decide to break free from their everyday lives with a weekend road trip. The journey starts with fun and laughter, but unexpectedly turns when they become fugitives.
While on the run, Thelma and Louise discover hidden strengths and an unbreakable bond. This challenging experience forces them to confront their fears and grow as individuals and as friends.
Facing danger, the women learn about friendship, courage, and finding themselves, showing that sometimes stepping outside our comfort zones can lead to unexpected personal growth and adventure.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 6
Coffee & PieMovie · 2011 · 15mJune and October are breaking up in this film that deliberately avoids romantic comedy tropes. June believes her own moral high ground justifies the split, while October, feeling betrayed, seeks advice from Billy-Jean, a world-weary waitress, and learns a different approach to dealing with heartbreak.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.2 - 7
Kill Me PleaseMovie · 2015 · 101mIn Rio de Janeiro's Barra da Tijuca, a series of murders grips the West Side. Initially, local teenagers are drawn to the morbid spectacle, but their fascination gradually poisons their lives. Fifteen-year-old Bia is among them. Following a close brush with death, she becomes determined to survive at any cost.IMDb 5.7TMDB 4.8 - 8
Certain WomenMovie · 2016 · 107m · DramaIn the American Northwest, three independent women navigate life's challenges. A lawyer struggles to manage a difficult client. A wife and mother's ambitious home-building project exposes problems in her marriage. And a solitary ranch hand develops a complex relationship with a young law student.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.0 - 9
Peony PavilionMovie · 2001 · 123mSet in 1930s Suzhou, the story follows the fifth wife of a wealthy man struggling with opium addiction. She forms a close bond with her husband's female cousin, and a passionate connection blossoms with a charismatic instructor.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.7 - 10
Fish and ElephantMovie · 2001 · 106mA woman navigates complicated relationships with her ex-girlfriend and her divorced mother, who encourages her to date.IMDb 5.3TMDB 3.5 - 11
ThievesMovie · 1996 · 117m · Romance, Crime, DramaIn a quiet town, a mysterious person brings Ivan's body to his grieving wife and young son under the cover of night. As his family mourns, the story explores Ivan's complicated past. It reveals the relationships that defined him: his distant brother Alex, a troubled police officer hiding a secret; his siblings Juliette and Jimmy, who run a nightclub as their refuge; and the complicated love triangle between Alex, a captivating philosophy professor named Marie, and the emotions they all conceal. The story also examines the difficult bond between Alex and his nephew, Ivan's son, who struggles to cope with his father’s sudden death. Ivan’s unexpected death triggers significant changes, exposing the hidden truths within these ordinary lives.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1 - 12
Blind SexMovie · 2017 · 32mAs summer ends, Louise, who has been blind from birth, feels overwhelmed by her mother and sister. After becoming lost in the woods, an unexpected meeting at a naturist campsite disrupts her routine.IMDb 6.7TMDB 3.7 - 13
Lesbian Avengers Eat Fire TooMovie · 1993 · 55mThis film offers a firsthand view of the inaugural year of the Lesbian Avengers, an activist organization.IMDb 7.5TMDB 8.0 - 14
Knife+HeartMovie · 2018 · 102m · Horror, Romance, MysteryDuring the summer of 1979, a gay pornography producer named Anne begins filming her most ambitious project. However, her actors are systematically murdered, one after another, by an unknown assailant.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.9 - 15
Blood Below the SkinMovie · 2015 · 33mThis story follows three teenage girls over the course of a week. They are high school classmates from different worlds who find a connection after something unexpected happens. Two of the girls develop feelings for each other, defying expectations, while the third takes on responsibility for her mother after her father disappears. Each girl finds solace in her room, where music creates a shared sense of unity between them.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.3 - 16
But I'm a CheerleaderMovie · 2000 · 85m · Comedy, RomanceMegan is a seemingly perfect all-American cheerleader with a boyfriend. However, she finds physical affection with him unappealing and has strained relationships with her teammates. Her conservative parents, believing she is a lesbian, send her to a school designed to "redirect" her sexuality, where she and other students are compelled to learn heterosexuality.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 17
The Summer of SangaileMovie · 2015 · 88m · Drama, RomanceSeventeen-year-old Sangaile is spending the summer at her family's lakeside home when she meets a spirited girl at an air show. As the two girls bond, Sangaile starts to overcome her anxieties and embrace a relationship that inspires her to follow her dream of flying.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.4 - 18
Not All Dads Pee Standing UpMovie · 1998 · 90m"Not All Dads Pee Standing Up" tells the story of Zoe and Dan, a couple who are deeply in love. They live a happy life together with their young child, Simon, near Bruges.IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.1 - 19
MurderersMovie · 2006 · 98mNina and Lizzy connect while patients at a mental institution. Nina is deeply depressed, blaming herself for her father's death. Lizzy, emotionally unstable, is there after attempting suicide. One Saturday night, Lizzy convinces Nina to escape the clinic with her boyfriend Malik and friends to paint the city. But their plan quickly unravels.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.9 - 20
SisterhoodMovie · 2017 · 97mA chance encounter rekindles a past love. Sei and Ling, once masseuses in Macau, fondly remember their time together. Years later, Sei discovers a hidden secret her deceased best friend kept from her.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.1 - 21
BessieMovie · 2015 · 107m · Drama, Music, TV MovieThis is the story of Bessie Smith, a legendary blues singer who achieved widespread fame during the 1920s and 1930s.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 22
MimiMovie · 2003 · 105mMimi isn't famous; she's simply a person. The film offers an intimate look at the unique details of everyday life – her story, her relationships, her dreams, and her world.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.2 - 23
Daughter of MineMovie · 2018 · 100m · DramaA daughter struggles to choose between the mother who raised her and her biological mother, who feels a powerful connection and wants her back.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2 - 24
Beyond the HillsMovie · 2012 · 150m · Drama, RomanceAlina travels back to Romania from Germany with the intention of bringing Voichita home. Voichita is the only person Alina has ever loved, and vice versa. However, Voichita has embraced a religious life, and her devotion to God proves the most formidable obstacle Alina has ever faced.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 25
The BloodiestMovie · 2005 · 97mIn a near-future Cameroon, close friends Majolie and Chouchou strive for advancement. Following an accidental killing of a prominent politician during a sexual encounter, they devise a plan to conceal the body and navigate the dazzling, new social circles emerging in the city's nightlife.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.8 - 26
Hearts Beat LoudMovie · 2018 · 97m · Music, Drama, ComedyIn Brooklyn's Red Hook, single father and record store owner Frank is helping his daughter Sam prepare for college while facing the closure of his shop. Hoping to maintain a bond through their love of music, Frank encourages Sam to perform their regular jam sessions as a live act. After their first song gains popularity online, they begin a journey of connection, self-discovery, and growing up together.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 27
Water LiliesMovie · 2007 · 85m · Drama, RomanceDuring a hot summer in a French suburb, Marie wants to join the local synchronized swimming team, hoping to connect with Floriane, the team's rebellious star. Sciamma and the film's stars offer a sensitive look at the confusion of first love and growing up.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 28
MartyrsMovie · 2008 · 99m · Horror, Drama, ThrillerAfter being kidnapped and tortured as a child, a young woman seeks revenge on her abusers. She and her close friend, who also survived abuse, embark on a harrowing journey into a world of extreme cruelty.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.3 - 29
NovitiateMovie · 2017 · 123m · DramaSet in the early 1960s, during the Vatican Council II, a young woman preparing to enter religious life grapples with questions of belief, her own desires, and the evolving nature of the Catholic Church.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 30
Matzo MaidelsMovie · 2003 · 5mIn 1923 Brooklyn, Bloomberg and her friends engage in intimate encounters, presented in this unique film. The movie combines rare 16mm archival erotic footage with a comedic voiceover in Yiddish, using everyday expressions.TMDB 2.3 - 31
Clouds of Sils MariaMovie · 2014 · 124m · DramaA seasoned actress is forced to confront a difficult truth about herself when she accepts a role in a revival of the play that made her famous two decades ago.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 32
Greetings from AfricaMovie · 1996 · 8mCheryl, portraying herself, playfully navigates the world of lesbian dating during the 1990s.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.9 - 33
The HoursMovie · 2002 · 114m · DramaThree women across different times and places seek deeper, more fulfilling lives, united by their hopes and anxieties. Their individual stories gradually connect, culminating in a surprising and deeply moving shared experience of understanding.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 34
Coming OutMovie · 2013 · 91mThe film follows Hungary’s most well-known gay celebrity, who publicly embraces his identity and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights in a country resistant to diverse values. His world is upended when he unexpectedly finds himself developing feelings for a woman.IMDb 5.0TMDB 4.4 - 35
The Joy of LifeMovie · 2005 · 65mThis film blends documentary and experimental storytelling to explore two San Francisco stories. It uses striking 16mm landscape photography and a poetic voice-over to examine the Golden Gate Bridge's history as a place associated with suicide, and the journey of a butch lesbian searching for love and identity in the city. The Joy of Life is a film about both physical and emotional landscapes.IMDb 7.4TMDB 4.6 - 36
Halloween IIMovie · 2009 · 105m · HorrorLaurie Strode is grappling with the return of her brother Michael to Haddonfield, Illinois. At the same time, Michael is making plans to reunite with his sister.IMDb 4.8TMDB 5.3 - 37
The Eiffel Tower MysteryMovie · 2016 · 86mThe daughter of an architect who designed the Eiffel Tower is wrongly accused of a murder that occurred within the tower's structure. She and her girlfriend then travel throughout Paris in an effort to uncover the truth behind the crime.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.3 - 38
RafikiMovie · 2018 · 82m · Drama, RomanceKena and Ziki crave a life beyond expectations. Their families are locked in a bitter political feud, but the girls remain devoted friends, encouraging each other to chase their aspirations in a traditional world. As they fall in love, Kena and Ziki face a difficult decision: follow their hearts or protect themselves.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0 - 39
Liz and the Blue BirdMovie · 2018 · 91m · Animation, Drama, MusicDuring their final year of high school, two girls in the school's brass band perform a piece of music inspired by a fairy tale that reflects their own close friendship.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.5 - 40
Lesbian WhaleMovie · 2015 · 7m"Lesbian Whale" brings to life Barbara Hammer's notebook drawings from 1969 to 1971, featuring commentary from her friends and colleagues. The artwork shown in the film reflects a pivotal period in Hammer's early career, encompassing both the time before and after she chose to dedicate herself to art and filmmaking following her separation from her husband.IMDb 6.2 - 41
The Chinese Botanist's DaughtersMovie · 2006 · 95m · DramaAt the home of a renowned Chinese botanist, his daughter and a visiting female intern develop a love for each other—a relationship they must keep hidden.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 42
The SeamstressMovie · 2017 · 166m · DramaSet in the 1930s, two sisters navigate prejudice and sexism. One confronts the elite of a bustling city, while the other battles a group of rebels in the countryside. Though geographically apart, they remain each other's only support, each finding strength and asserting themselves in unexpected ways.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 43
The Duke of BurgundyMovie · 2014 · 104m · Drama, Mystery, RomanceCynthia and Evelyn maintain a carefully constructed world of power dynamics, playing out a sadomasochistic fantasy of mistress and maid. However, as their routine becomes predictable, Cynthia desires a more traditional relationship, while Evelyn seeks to intensify their unconventional dynamic.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 44
Show Me LoveMovie · 1998 · 89m · Comedy, Romance, DramaIn a quiet Swedish town, the lives of teenagers Elin and Agnes become connected. Elin is beautiful and popular, but her life feels dull. Agnes, isolated and without friends, secretly loves Elin. As they experience adolescence, their stories explore teenage struggles, longing, and complicated feelings in a close-knit community. The film examines their friendship, revealing shared vulnerabilities and the challenges they face as they navigate social pressures and personal desires.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 45
Seeing RedMovie · 2005 · 28m"Seeing Red" explores how a single thing – a color, a melody, or a person – can have many different qualities that defy simple understanding. The film weaves together three distinct stories: one visual, one primarily verbal with few visuals, and one purely musical. It asks: What does it truly mean for something to be red – like a fire truck, a ruby, rust, a rose, blood, or a brick? How much can a melody change before it becomes unrecognizable? And when we "see red," what are we really seeing? Is it anger at injustice, or a reflection of our own flaws?IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.3 - 46
Saving FaceMovie · 2004 · 97m · Comedy, Romance, DramaA Chinese-American woman who is also a lesbian and her traditional mother struggle to reveal their hidden affections, which conflict with their cultural values.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 47
The Potluck and the PassionMovie · 1993 · 23mTensions rise as conversations about race, sexuality, and social issues unfold during a gathering of lesbians sharing food.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1 - 48
Nitrate KissesMovie · 1992 · 67m · DocumentaryThis documentary explores the history of lesbian and gay culture by preserving forgotten images and stories. From a leading voice in LGBTQ+ cinema, this first feature combines interviews with gay and lesbian couples to reveal hidden and suppressed aspects of the past. The film honors the power of memory and the importance of preserving our shared history by bringing to light previously unseen experiences. With a distinctive visual style and intimate storytelling, it offers a rare look into a world often kept out of the public eye.IMDb 7.1TMDB 4.9 - 49She Don't FadeMovie · 1992 · 24m*She Don't Fade* follows Shae Clarke, an African American lesbian, as she explores her sexuality. The film details Clarke's personal philosophy and approach to relationships with women, portrayed by the film's director, Dunye.IMDb 6.3TMDB 7.0
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Bye Bye BlondieMovie · 2012 · 94m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceThis is a story about two women in their late forties who reconnect and try to rekindle a romance from their past.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.5 - 51
O Perfume da MemóriaMovie · 2016 · 73mAna and Laura, two women with contrasting perspectives on life, find themselves drawn to each other. Ana harbors a secret that tests the boundaries of their connection, potentially pushing them apart or forging a deeper bond.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 52
Sink or SwimMovie · 2018 · 122m · Drama, ComedyBertrand, a 40-year-old struggling with depression for the past two years, finds himself barely managing day-to-day life despite medication and his wife's support. He's lost his sense of purpose. Unexpectedly, he discovers it while joining an all-male synchronized swimming team at the local pool.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 53
Wild Nights with EmilyMovie · 2018 · 84m · History, ComedyThe film explores a previously hidden aspect of Emily Dickinson's life: her lively and unconventional personality, often concealed throughout her career. It centers on her enduring romantic connection with a woman.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.9 - 54
The CaptiveMovie · 2000 · 118m · Drama, RomanceAriane and Simon connect by the water. Simon has persuaded Ariane to leave her friends – a group he considers carefree and conceited – and move into his home. She has a private room and bathroom. Simon has also arranged for Andrée, one of Ariane's former friends, to look after her. Andrée accompanies Ariane everywhere, reporting back to Simon on her activities. A close bond forms between Ariane and Andrée, marked by lies and a growing intimacy that may lead to a sexual relationship.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.6 - 55
Lover OtherMovie · 2006 · 55mThis hybrid documentary brings together the stories of 1920s Surrealist artists Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore. Lesbians and step-sisters, the gender-bending artists lived and worked together throughout their lives. They were courageous resistors against the Nazis occupying Jersey Isle during World War II, but were captured and sentenced to death. Award-winning filmmaker Barbara Hammer uses photographs, archival footage, dramatic readings from a "found Cahun script," and interviews with people from Jersey Isle who knew the artists to create a vibrant portrait of their lives.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.3 - 56
When Marnie Was ThereMovie · 2014 · 103m · Animation, Drama, FamilyTo recover from an illness, a withdrawn teenage girl is sent to live with relatives in the countryside. She becomes increasingly fixated on a nearby abandoned mansion and develops an intense fascination with a girl who lives there – a girl whose existence remains uncertain.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.9 - 57
LuzMovie · 2019 · 70m · Horror, MysteryLuz, a young taxi driver, enters the brightly lit police station, but a demonic entity is with her, intent on finally reaching the woman it loves.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.1 - 58
ReplayMovie · 2001 · 96m · Drama, RomanceNathalie and Louise have been friends since childhood. At university, where they study drama, Louise becomes intensely fixated on Nathalie. Jealous of Nathalie's male friends, Louise ends their friendship and attempts suicide. Years later, Louise marries but maintains contact with Nathalie, who has become a successful actress. Throughout the years, their friendship repeatedly falters and rekindles, a pattern of separation and reconnection that never fully resolves into a definitive conclusion.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.0 - 59
See the SeaMovie · 1997 · 52mSasha, a young British woman, lives a quiet life with her baby daughter in the peaceful beach community of Ile d'Yeu. A stranger, Tatiana, arrives and sets up her tent on Sasha’s property while passing through. The two women develop an unusual connection, and a growing sense of unease emerges as things happen.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 60
Marlina the Murderer in Four ActsMovie · 2017 · 93m · Thriller, Drama, WesternA young widow is attacked by bandits who intend to assault her and rob her. Seeking justice, she flees into the wilderness.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 61
Blue DiaryMovie · 1998 · 6mThis experimental short film uses voiceover and static shots of San Francisco to tell a wistful story about a lesbian woman reflecting on a brief encounter with a straight woman.IMDb 6.4TMDB 4.5 - 62
DisobedienceMovie · 2018 · 114m · Drama, RomanceNew York photographer Ronit travels to London upon hearing of her estranged father's death. She returns to the Orthodox Jewish community that ostracized her years ago because of her feelings for Esti, a female friend. Their unexpected reunion rekindles their intense connection as they navigate questions of faith and desire.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.9 - 63
Vic + Flo Saw a BearMovie · 2013 · 95mTwo men, recently freed from prison, seek a new life by working in a remote sugar shack nestled in the woods.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.5 - 64
Aimée & JaguarMovie · 1999 · 125m · Drama, History, RomanceDuring World War II, two women from different sides of the conflict develop a secret romance. As Berlin faces Allied attacks, the Nazi authorities tighten their control over Jewish people. In this atmosphere of fear, a forbidden love story emerges between a brave woman involved in the Jewish resistance and a dedicated Nazi mother.
Their love defies societal expectations and reveals the complexities of human feelings even during wartime. This moving story emphasizes their fight to protect who they are, what they believe, and their love amidst the war. Their journey demonstrates how far people will go for love and the power it has.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 65
Girls Can't SwimMovie · 2000 · 102mGwen lives in a quiet seaside town. Lise, her best friend, is a city girl who visits with her family every summer. This year, however, things feel different. Lise might not come at all, and even when she does, it becomes clear that Gwen has matured more quickly than Lise has.IMDb 5.9TMDB 3.9 - 66
Muriel's Parents Are DesperateMovie · 1995 · 74mThis coming-of-age story follows 17-year-old Muriel as she defies her French family to pursue a life in Paris. There, a relationship with Nora leads Muriel through experiences of both heartbreak and self-discovery.IMDb 6.5TMDB 3.8 - 67
8 WomenMovie · 2002 · 111m · Comedy, Thriller, MysteryEight women celebrating Christmas in a snowbound cottage discover the family patriarch is dead, a knife in his back. Trapped together, suspicion falls on them all, as each woman harbors secrets and potential motives.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 68
CarolMovie · 2015 · 118m · Romance, DramaIn 1950s New York City, a department store clerk yearning for a more fulfilling existence develops a romantic relationship with an older woman who is already married.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.5 - 69
RaraMovie · 2016 · 88mAfter their parents separate, Sara and her younger sister live with their mother and her new partner. Their daily life is fairly normal. However, Sara's father struggles to accept the new family dynamic. As Sara approaches her 13th birthday, she feels overwhelmed by first love, physical changes, and conflicting loyalties between her parents.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.5 - 70
The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in LoveMovie · 1995 · 94m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceThis heartwarming story follows two young women from different backgrounds who unexpectedly fall in love. As they build their relationship, they navigate the usual challenges of trust, communication, and acceptance, alongside societal pressures and their own pasts.
Their journey reveals both the fragility and strength of their love. Overcoming obstacles shows their commitment to each other and their personal growth, creating a realistic and honest portrayal of love that triumphs despite differences in social standing. The film explores how love can connect people across divides.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2 - 71
Go FishMovie · 1994 · 83m · Romance, Comedy, DramaMax, a charming young woman who is a lesbian, searches for love in the city. Her best friend introduces her to Ely, who isn't quite what Max usually goes for – she’s not trendy, lacks the youthful charm Max is used to, and is a bit older.
As they spend time together, Max discovers that love can appear in unexpected forms. Despite their differences, Max and Ely develop a deep emotional connection that goes beyond looks. This story explores the complexities of love, questioning traditional ideas and suggesting that it can be found where you least expect it.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.0 - 72
BloodSisters: Leather, Dykes, and SadomasochismMovie · 1995 · 69mBloodsisters is a documentary film offering a comprehensive look at the San Francisco leather and lesbian subculture of the mid-1990s. It explores a diverse range of individuals, from those embracing traditionally masculine aesthetics to those challenging gender norms.IMDb 7.1TMDB 3.7 - 73
I, Olga HepnarovaMovie · 2016 · 106m · Drama, HistoryOlga is a troubled young woman yearning to escape her cold family and societal expectations. With a distinctive, tomboyish style, reminiscent of Louise Brooks, she works a series of jobs, often smoking heavily, until she finds a sense of purpose as a truck driver. Despite having relationships with women, she struggles to connect emotionally, frequently expressing herself through outbursts and unconventional behavior.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 74
The Watermelon WomanMovie · 1997 · 85m · Drama, Comedy, RomanceThis indie film follows a talented young black lesbian filmmaker as she works on an ambitious project. Researching film history, she discovers the story of The Watermelon Woman, a 1930s actress who played common stereotypical "mammy" roles and has since been largely forgotten.
The filmmaker becomes fascinated by uncovering The Watermelon Woman's life and legacy, exploring what it means to be a black woman then and now. She connects her own identity and challenges with The Watermelon Woman’s journey, searching for answers about a complicated history that continues to be relevant today.
The film combines historical research, personal discovery, and reflections on cinema to create an intimate portrait of a forgotten artist, examining representation, identity, and cultural change.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 75
The LureMovie · 2015 · 93m · Horror, Music, FantasyTwo mermaid sisters working at a nightclub are forced to make difficult and violent decisions when one of them develops feelings for a handsome human.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 76
The Royal RoadMovie · 2015 · 65mThe Royal Road is a compelling story of reinvention that weaves together cinematic spiritual channeling, the history of Mexico and the American Southwest, and the fading urban landscapes of California. It also explores the complexities of butch identity and the search for passion, ultimately offering a poetic defense of remembrance. Following paths from El Camino Real to more metaphorical roads, the film provides a deeply insightful look at the human experience, seeking redemption through history, nostalgia, mindfulness, and beauty. It’s a profoundly moving experience.IMDb 6.7TMDB 4.9 - 77
When Night Is FallingMovie · 1995 · 96m · Drama, RomanceCamille, a respected professor at a Protestant college, enjoys the stability of her life and her committed relationship with Martin, a minister and fellow professor who shares her academic and religious beliefs. However, Camille unexpectedly feels drawn to Petra, a captivating circus performer who joins the campus.
Petra's vibrant personality disrupts Camille's ordered world, leading her to question her life and her relationship with Martin. As Camille explores her feelings for Petra, she experiences a confusing array of emotions that challenge her deeply held beliefs and values. This journey forces her to confront her desires and limitations, and ultimately reconcile her past with who she is becoming.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 78
House of PleasuresMovie · 2011 · 126m · DramaParis, at the turn of the 20th century. L’Apollonide, a lavish and established brothel, is facing closure. Within its walls, a complex world unfolds where relationships range from affection to cruelty. The women of L’Apollonide confide in each other, sharing their innermost secrets, anxieties, hopes, and sorrows.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 79
Lost and DeliriousMovie · 2001 · 103m · Drama, RomanceA teenage girl's life changes when she begins at a prestigious boarding school and bonds with her two older roommates. Her close friendships become complicated, however, when she learns that her roommates are in a romantic relationship with each other, leaving her in a difficult position.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8 - 80
TomboyMovie · 2011 · 82m · DramaLaure, a spirited ten-year-old who favors sports over typical girlhood activities, experiences a life-changing summer when her family relocates. A misunderstanding with a classmate leads Laure to embrace a new identity as Mickaël. This newfound freedom brings carefree days of play and first romantic experiences. However, as school nears, doubts begin to surface among those around her, forcing Laure to confront an uncertain future.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 81
Skin DeepMovie · 1995 · 88mA filmmaker starts a risky and unsettling game after a woman answers her advertisement in a tattoo magazine.IMDb 4.7TMDB 1.0 - 82
The HeiressesMovie · 2018 · 95m · DramaWhen her girlfriend is jailed for fraud, Chela must adjust to a changed life. She starts driving a taxi for wealthy elderly women in her neighborhood. As Chela finds a rhythm, she meets Angy, a much younger woman, and develops a vibrant new friendship.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 83
PariahMovie · 2011 · 86m · DramaA Brooklyn teenager struggles with who they are while navigating friendships, love, and family expectations as they explore their sexuality.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 84
CélineMovie · 1992 · 88mFollowing her father's death, 22-year-old Céline inherits his estate but unexpectedly gives it to her stepmother, leading her fiancé to abandon her. After attempting suicide multiple times, Céline is hospitalized and meets Genevieve, a nurse who understands her struggles with depression. Under Genevieve's care, Céline slowly recovers, and the two women develop a close bond.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 85
ChronicMovie · 1997 · 38mCHRONIC is a narrative exploring a young woman's journey of self-harm, which began in childhood as a response to a difficult upbringing in the Midwest. The film uses visually rich, optically-printed scenes to depict Gretchen’s experiences from her punk youth through a mental hospital stay and her eventual move to a large city. Scripted scenes are interwoven with documentary and found footage to illustrate the culture surrounding Gretchen, her internal thoughts, and her relationships from birth to her final days.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.0 - 86
A Bride for Rip Van WinkleMovie · 2016 · 179m · Drama, RomanceA woman arranges for hired actors and everyday people to pose as her friends and family at her wedding.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 87
Why Not Me?Movie · 1998 · 94mFour gay French men run a business together in Barcelona. Their lives become complicated when they and their parents are brought together for a "coming out" celebration, sparking a new series of comedic mishaps.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.6 - 88
Princess CydMovie · 2017 · 96m · Romance, DramaCyd Loughlin, a high school athlete in South Carolina, feels trapped in her life with her depressed father and dreams of escape. She eagerly accepts an invitation to spend the summer with her aunt, Miranda Ruth, a renowned novelist. During her visit, Cyd develops feelings for a girl in the neighborhood while she and her aunt explore complex topics like sex and spirituality.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 89
ThelmaMovie · 2017 · 116m · Drama, Mystery, ThrillerA college student begins having severe seizures. She discovers these violent episodes are linked to strange, unexplainable powers she possesses.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 90
Green SnakeMovie · 1993 · 99m · Action, Fantasy, RomanceA playful snake can turn into a human, and she uses this ability to interfere with her brother's new romance with a clumsy human. This creates a humorous story about love and magic realism, as the snake's tricks have unforeseen effects on the couple. The charming film explores self-discovery, sibling rivalry, and how fate can unexpectedly change ordinary lives.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 91
ViolaMovie · 2012 · 65mWhile rehearsing Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night," a group of actresses become entangled in a complicated series of romantic relationships.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.0 - 92
Vanilla SexMovie · 1992 · 4mThis short film uses Polaroid photographs to explore the meaning of "Vanilla Sex" within Black and queer communities. It offers a glimpse into the concept as understood by those who experience it.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.7 - 93
20 30 40Movie · 2004 · 113mThree women, in their twenties, thirties, and forties, each grapple with the complexities of life and relationships.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.5 - 94
LovesongMovie · 2017 · 85m · Drama, RomanceFeeling ignored by her husband, Sarah takes a spontaneous road trip with her daughter and her close friend, Mindy. The journey deepens their friendship, but they are separated by unforeseen events. Years later, Sarah tries to reconnect with Mindy in the time leading up to her wedding.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.7 - 95
MonsterMovie · 2003 · 109m · Crime, DramaIn 1989, prostitute Aileen Wuornos forms a relationship with a young woman named Selby. Hoping to improve her life, Aileen's lack of education leads her back to working on the streets. After being assaulted, she kills her attacker. This event marks the beginning of a series of murders and robberies, ultimately transforming Aileen into America's first confirmed female serial killer.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 96
The ShowerMovie · 2011 · 10mElisa and Manuela, who have shared five years together, face an impending separation. This is their final morning together, a day spent desperately trying to say goodbye. In a steamy, intimate space, they relive their relationship – the arguments, the love, the anger, the guilt, the humor, and the sadness. They study each other intently, attempting to hold onto the fading memories of a love slipping away.IMDb 6.4TMDB 4.5 - 97
Mulholland DriveMovie · 2001 · 147m · Thriller, Drama, MysteryNewly arrived in Hollywood and chasing stardom, blonde Betty Elms encounters a mysterious brunette suffering from amnesia. As Betty and the woman try to uncover her past, filmmaker Adam Kesher faces unsettling problems while casting his new film.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 98
ColetteMovie · 2018 · 112m · Drama, HistorySidonie-Gabrielle Colette leaves her rural French home to join her husband, Willy, a celebrated Parisian writer. Willy then persuades Colette to ghostwrite a novel for him. She writes a semi-autobiographical story about a spirited country girl named Claudine, which becomes a huge bestseller and captures the public's imagination. The success of the book makes Colette and Willy prominent figures in Paris, and their experiences inspire more Claudine novels.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9
