158 Essential LGBTQ+ Films That Define Pride and Passion
158 titles
- 101
Marry My Dead BodyMovie · 2023 · 129m · Comedy, Action, HorrorA police officer named Ming-han's life becomes strange when he receives a mysterious letter. Suddenly, he is married to a ghost, and together they must investigate a crime.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 102
Patrik, Age 1.5Movie · 2008 · 98m · Drama, ComedyGöran and Sven are approved to adopt a 1.5-year-old Swedish orphan named Patrik. However, when Patrik arrives, he's not the child they were told about. A misplaced comma in the paperwork resulted in them receiving a 15-year-old with a history of homophobia and criminal activity.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 103
The Rocky Horror Picture ShowMovie · 1975 · 99m · Comedy, Science Fiction, HorrorDuring a stormy night, the naive and newly-in-love Brad and Janet stumble upon the mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Their arrival leads them into a world of wild indulgence and unconventional behavior, where they meet a cast of unusual people.
The mansion is home to a flamboyant biker and a secretive butler, adding to the strange atmosphere. As the story unfolds through musical numbers and dance, it explores ideas of sexual freedom and identity. The film culminates in Dr. Frank-N-Furter's unveiling of his newest creation, a powerful man named Rocky. This bizarre story mixes science fiction, horror, and comedy to examine human nature and social expectations.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 104
XeniaMovie · 2014 · 123m · Drama, RomanceAfter their Albanian mother dies, 16-year-old Danny and 18-year-old Odysseus leave their home and travel across the country to find their father, a Greek man.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1 - 105
AbsentMovie · 2011 · 87m · Drama, ThrillerSebastiano is a high school gym teacher and swimming coach with a stable life: a job, a girlfriend, and everyday routines. However, the arrival of a student named Martin begins to disrupt everything. This unsettling, Hitchcock-style thriller presents a chillingly realistic depiction of sexual obsession.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0 - 106
A Single ManMovie · 2009 · 100m · Drama, RomanceIn 1962 Los Angeles, during the Cuban missile crisis, a British college professor struggles with his memories and uncertainty about what lies ahead. The film follows him through one day as a series of events and people prompt him to confront whether life can hold meaning following the loss of his partner, Jim.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 107
BoysMovie · 2014 · 78m · Drama, Romance, TV MovieTwo teenage athletes on the track team fall in love while preparing for their most important race yet.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.7 - 108
SauvageMovie · 2018 · 97m · DramaIn Strasbourg, Léo, a 22-year-old who lives on the streets and works as a sex worker, seeks authentic connection and love.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 109
ShortbusMovie · 2006 · 101m · Romance, Drama, ComedyNew York City, after 9/11. At Shortbus, a notorious underground salon in Brooklyn, the lives of a diverse group of people become intertwined – through relationships, romance, and intimacy. The salon is known for its mix of art, music, politics, and sexuality.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2 - 110
Love & RevolutionMovie · 2023 · 108m · Drama, ComedySeville, 1977. When homosexuality is illegal, Reme, a traditional mother, is drawn into the burgeoning Andalusian LGBTQ+ movement by the love for her son, a young artist. This movement unexpectedly takes root within the Catholic Church.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 111
AnderMovie · 2009 · 128mThis is a love story about a farmer from the Basque region and a woman who immigrated from Peru.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.6 - 112
Another Story of LoveMovie · 2011 · 108mDiego, a twenty-year-old Chilean, documents his life through photography. He reconnects with Sebastian, a childhood friend, and they share an intense summer in Santiago filled with alcohol, marijuana, and sun-drenched days. Both come from troubled homes – Diego’s mother struggles with alcoholism, and Sebastian feels neglected by his father and stepmother. Their shared desire to explore the world and understand themselves deepens their bond. An undeniable attraction grows between them, prompting them to confront their fears and question what they truly desire.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.0 - 113
Single All the WayMovie · 2021 · 99m · Romance, ComedyAfraid of his family's disapproval regarding his being single, Peter persuades his best friend Nick to pretend they are a couple for the holidays. However, things get complicated when Peter's mother arranges a blind date with her attractive trainer, James. The scheme begins to unravel.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.4 - 114
Family MembersMovie · 2019 · 86mLucas, a teenager preoccupied with his appearance, and his spiritually-minded older sister, Gilda, find themselves unexpectedly stranded. They travel to a remote coastal town, hoping to honor their deceased mother's final wishes.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.1 - 115
I Dream in Another LanguageMovie · 2017 · 101m · Fantasy, DramaA native language is disappearing, with only two remaining speakers who have been estranged for over 50 years due to a past disagreement. Martín, a young linguist, must bridge this divide, persuading the old friends to communicate again so he can record their speech and study the language.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.9 - 116
StrappedMovie · 2010 · 95m · DramaA cynical hustler's usual con leads him to unexpected experiences in this drama. The usually detached rent boy begins to question himself when he becomes lost in a complex apartment building. While navigating the building, he deceives various clients, and amidst these encounters, raw emotions emerge for everyone involved.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0 - 117
Of an AgeMovie · 2023 · 100m · Romance, DramaA Serbian ballroom dancer has a sudden and passionate connection with her friend's older brother over the course of a single day.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 118
Great FreedomMovie · 2021 · 116m · Drama, Romance, CrimeFollowing World War II, liberation from the Allied forces doesn't bring true freedom to everyone. Hans Hoffmann is repeatedly jailed under Paragraph 175, a law that criminalizes homosexuality. Yet, over many years, he persistently seeks freedom and love, finding it in unexpected places.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 119
LiltingMovie · 2014 · 91m · DramaA young man of Chinese and Cambodian heritage passes away, leaving his mother alone and his partner of four years heartbroken. Despite a lack of a common language, they find solace and a deep connection in their shared grief.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9 - 120
I'm So Excited!Movie · 2013 · 90m · ComedyA plane flying from Madrid to Mexico City experiences a problem with its landing gear. Stranded and vulnerable, the diverse passengers share personal stories, while the flight crew tries to keep spirits up with unusual diversions.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.7 - 121
An InstantMovie · 2017 · 20mHugo lives a life defined by routine, preoccupied with duties and unable to anticipate the future, constantly dwelling on the past and missing chances. Cosmo is a carefree wanderer, always moving on to the next place. Their paths cross unexpectedly one summer afternoon. This brief encounter sparks a relationship that forces them to truly experience the present for the first time.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.0 - 122
The Perks of Being a WallflowerMovie · 2012 · 103m · DramaIn Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 1991, shy freshman Charlie observes life from a distance. His world changes when two seniors, Sam and her stepbrother Patrick, take him under their wing. They guide him toward friendship, music, and the experience of first love.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 123
EsterosMovie · 2016 · 83m · Drama, RomanceMatías and Jerónimo, who have been friends since childhood, discover they are drawn to each other as they enter adolescence. Circumstances later separate them. Years later, as young adults, they reconnect, and the film explores the complexities of their evolving relationship, including underlying sexual tensions and the challenges of homophobia.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 124
The Strong OnesMovie · 2020 · 98m · Drama, RomanceLucas visits his sister in a secluded town on Chile's southern coast. There, amidst the ocean and fog, he encounters Antonio, a boatswain on a fishing vessel. A passionate relationship develops between them, their resilience, self-reliance, and maturity proving unwavering against life's challenges.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.5 - 125
3-Day WeekendMovie · 2008 · 84mSimon and Jason, a couple who have been together for a long time, join Cooper and his current romantic interest for a three-day weekend at a mountain cabin, seeking a break from their busy city lives. This year, they decide to add a new element to their annual trip: everyone must bring one attractive single friend along.IMDb 4.7TMDB 4.1 - 126
Fire IslandMovie · 2022 · 105m · Comedy, RomanceA group of gay best friends celebrate their annual reunion in Fire Island Pines with a week of joy and humor. But as desires ignite, conflicts arise, and indulgence takes hold, testing the strength of their friendship.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0 - 127
Paris 05:59 / Théo & HugoMovie · 2016 · 97m · Drama, RomanceThéo and Hugo connect instantly at a club. After the initial excitement fades, the two young men, both now sober, walk the deserted streets of Paris at night. They begin to grapple with the feelings of love developing between them.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 128
Breaking FastMovie · 2020 · 92m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceMo, a Muslim man living in West Hollywood, is dealing with the aftermath of a breakup. He meets Kal, a typical American, who unexpectedly invites him to share his Ramadan fast.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 129
WildhoodMovie · 2022 · 107m · Drama, RomanceFleeing an abusive father, Link and his brother begin a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, Link confronts his sexuality and reconnects with his Mi'kmaw roots.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 130
Eyes Wide OpenMovie · 2009 · 90m · Romance, DramaIn Jerusalem, Aaron, a middle-aged Orthodox Jew with a family, hires Ezri, a homeless 19-year-old student, as his assistant at the family butcher shop. As they work together, Aaron and Ezri develop a close bond that deepens into sexual attraction. Aaron is then forced to grapple with his own sexuality, his growing feelings for Ezri, and the expectations of his family and religious beliefs.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.4 - 131
1:54Movie · 2016 · 106mTim, a quiet 16-year-old athlete with a talent for running, is struggling with grief over his mother's death and coming to terms with his sexuality. His private life is suddenly thrust into the public spotlight when a personal video of him is shared online.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6 - 132
CloseMovie · 2022 · 104m · DramaDuring a perfect summer, two 13-year-old boys form a close bond. However, their friendship faces challenges as rumors and gossip begin to circulate among their classmates.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 133
My Straight SonMovie · 2012 · 114m · DramaDiego is a successful photographer living a life of glamour, superficiality, and indulgence in the fashion world. His world is shattered when a tragic accident leaves his partner in a coma. Suddenly, Diego finds himself unexpectedly responsible for his son, Armando. They must both adjust to this new reality: Armando to his father's unfamiliar life and identity, and Diego to his teenage son's reserved nature.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.7 - 134
Closet MonsterMovie · 2016 · 90m · Drama, Fantasy, MysteryA talented and ambitious young person longs to leave their hometown behind, seeking refuge from painful memories of a difficult upbringing.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 135
Tell No OneMovie · 2012 · 78m · ComedyMattia is about to move to Madrid with his boyfriend, Eduard. The day before their departure for Spain, Eduard reveals he will be arriving in Rome to understand "the rules." Mattia is then faced with a choice: finally tell Eduard the truth, or admit he has been deceiving him.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.1 - 136
CappuccinoMovie · 2010 · 16mJérémie appears unremarkable, but he's a shy teenager grappling with a significant secret: he's gay. Torn between his attraction to classmate Damien and the loving protectiveness of his mother Gina, his life is on the verge of transformation.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.6 - 137
Law of DesireMovie · 1987 · 102mSuccessful film director Pablo feels unfulfilled in his relationship with his younger lover, Juan. He throws himself into a new project: a monologue featuring his transgender sister, Tina. Meanwhile, Antonio, a reserved young man, develops a possessive love for Pablo and is determined to win him over at any cost.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 138
1985Movie · 2018 · 86m · DramaAfter a three-year absence, Adrian, a closeted advertising executive, returns to his conservative Texas hometown and finds himself struggling to explain his difficult situation to his family.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.2 - 139
God's Own CountryMovie · 2017 · 105m · Romance, DramaIn rural Yorkshire, a young farmer copes with his everyday disappointments through excessive drinking and casual relationships. His life takes a turn with the arrival of a Romanian migrant worker.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.8 - 140
Dallas Buyers ClubMovie · 2013 · 117m · Drama, HistoryThis film is loosely inspired by the story of Ron Woodroof, a man known for his risky lifestyle. In 1986, he received an HIV/AIDS diagnosis with a prognosis of only thirty days to live.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.9 - 141
My Own Private IdahoMovie · 1991 · 104m · DramaInspired by Shakespeare's "Henry IV," the film follows Mike Waters and Scott Favor as they travel together to find Mike's mother, whom he hasn't seen in years. Mike, who suffers from narcolepsy, lives as a street hustler, while Scott, the son of a mayor, joins him on this unusual journey. Their travels lead them through Portland, Idaho, and finally to Italy.
To survive, they must adapt to difficult circumstances, often turning to selling themselves for money and drugs. This unconventional life draws their attention to a dangerous world of wealth and crime, controlled by a powerful benefactor with hidden motives. The story examines loyalty, identity, and the sacrifices people make for family when facing hardship and chaos.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.1 - 142
I Don't Want to Go Back AloneMovie · 2011 · 17m · Drama, RomanceA new student arrives at school and disrupts Leonardo's life. The 15-year-old, who is blind, navigates the jealousy of his friend Giovana while also grappling with unexpected feelings for his new friend, Gabriel.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.7 - 143
A Stormy NightMovie · 2020 · 76mAs a major storm approaches New York City, a jaded documentary filmmaker from Spain and an optimistic app programmer are forced to seek refuge together. Huddled in close quarters, they begin to challenge each other's perspectives on life, happiness, and love.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.1 - 144
Gods and MonstersMovie · 1998 · 105m · DramaIn 1957, this touching story centers on James Whale, a celebrated filmmaker famous for iconic horror movies like "Frankenstein," "Bride of Frankenstein," and "The Invisible Man." Now retired and living quietly, Whale often reflects on his successful career. His housekeeper, Hannah, brings a change when she hires Adam, a young, friendly gardener. Though different in personality and experience, the pair develop an unexpected friendship that brings joy to both. As they face life's difficulties side-by-side, their connection deepens, highlighting the importance of human relationships and their ability to change us.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 145
The FavouriteMovie · 2018 · 120m · History, Comedy, DramaEngland, early 1700s. Queen Anne's close bond with Sarah Churchill is challenged by the arrival of Abigail Hill, Sarah's cousin. This sparks a sharp rivalry between the two women as they both compete for the Queen's favor.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 146
Call Me by Your NameMovie · 2017 · 132m · Romance, DramaDuring the summer of 1983, seventeen-year-old Elio spends his days at his family's villa in Italy. A graduate student named Oliver arrives to help Elio's father, a professor of Greco-Roman culture. Elio and Oliver quickly form a connection, and their summer together will profoundly change both of their lives.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.1 - 147
TaekwondoMovie · 2016 · 105m · Drama, Romance, ComedyFernando and his close male friends are enjoying a holiday together at a country house near Buenos Aires. Without their girlfriends around, the group of attractive young men relax in a carefree, all-male atmosphere. They spend their time sunbathing, swimming, smoking, and drinking, often in minimal clothing. In this relaxed setting, they openly discuss their desires and deepen their friendships.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.9 - 148
Matthias & MaximeMovie · 2019 · 120m · Drama, RomanceTwo lifelong friends agree to share a kiss for a school film project. The experience sparks uncertainty, forcing them to confront their feelings for each other. This challenges their friendship and the bonds within their group, ultimately leading to profound personal changes.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.1 - 149
Give Me Your HandMovie · 2008 · 80mEighteen-year-old twins Quentin and Antoine secretly travel to Spain for their mother's funeral, a woman they barely knew. Their hitchhiking journey is filled with encounters, disagreements, moments of understanding, and new experiences. The trip reveals the brothers' contrasting personalities, diverging interests, and complicated emotions.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.5 - 150
ScrewedMovie · 2018 · 100m · Romance, DramaDuring a summer spent in the Finnish countryside, seventeen-year-olds Miku and Elias discover each other.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.0 - 151
MascarponeMovie · 2021 · 101m · Drama, ComedyAntonio, a 30-year-old family man, experiences a life-altering event when his husband unexpectedly leaves him, leaving Antonio needing to find a new home, a job, and a renewed sense of direction. He finds a room in an apartment owned by Denis and begins working at a bakery owned by Luca, all while studying pastry. This journey helps Antonio realize the mistake he made in sacrificing his independence for his past relationship.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0 - 152
4 MoonsMovie · 2014 · 110m · Drama, RomanceThis film explores four interconnected stories about love and finding oneself. An eleven-year-old boy grapples with hiding his feelings for his cousin. Two friends from childhood reconnect and begin a relationship complicated by one man's fear of exposure. A long-term gay couple faces challenges when a new man enters their lives. Finally, an older man becomes fixated on a young male prostitute and desperately tries to earn enough money to meet his desires.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 153
SublimeMovie · 2022 · 100m · Drama, RomanceSixteen-year-old Manu discovers he's developing feelings for his bandmate, Felipe, sparking a confusing emotional upheaval. The story explores the challenges of navigating a close friendship when romantic feelings unexpectedly complicate the dynamic.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.2 - 154
Summer of 85Movie · 2020 · 101m · Romance, DramaSixteen years old, at a seaside resort in Normandy during the 1980s. The usual teenage dreams – a best friend, a pact, adventures on a boat or motorbike, living life fast – don't apply. Alexis dreams of death. The ultimate thrill is dying, and he saves it for the end. As summer vacation begins, the story follows Alexis as he discovers who he truly is.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.4 - 155
Paris Is BurningMovie · 1991 · 78m · Documentary"Paris Is Burning" is a landmark documentary exploring the African American and Latinx drag ball culture of 1980s Harlem. The film examines voguing, an expressive dance form central to this community, and "throwing shade," a style of playful verbal sparring. The filmmaker documents competitive fashion houses vying for recognition, while also revealing the hardships faced by those involved. Over seven years, it offers a deeply personal look at the strength and bonds within this community navigating homophobia, transphobia, racism, AIDS, and poverty. Through interviews with influential figures like Willi Ninja, Pepper LaBeija, Dorian Corey, and Venus Xtravaganza, the film shares their stories and the distinctive subculture they built despite facing adversity.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.0 - 156
Amnesia: The James Brighton EnigmaMovie · 2005 · 90mA young man awakens naked on a Montreal street, stripped of his identity. He doesn't know who he is or how he arrived there; only that he is gay. This sets the stage for a gripping mystery. Based on a true story, the man's memory loss suggests trauma, but could he be concealing something – perhaps evading justice?IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.2 - 157
Another Gay MovieMovie · 2006 · 94m · Comedy, RomanceThis outrageous comedy follows four young gay friends who make a bet to lose their virginity before summer ends. Their quest for first experiences leads them to encounters with oversized sex toys, famous people, a teacher with unusual interests, and an unexpected affection for a quiche.IMDb 5.0TMDB 6.0 - 158
Spoiler AlertMovie · 2022 · 110m · Romance, Comedy, DramaJournalist Michael Ausiello experiences a profound emotional journey when his 14-year partner, Kit Cowan, receives a terminal cancer diagnosis.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0