58 LGBTQ+ Films and Documentaries
58 titles
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Prayers for BobbyMovie · 2009 · 89m · Drama, History, TV MovieGrowing up in Walnut Creek, California, Bobby Griffith was his mother's pride – the quintessential all-American son, raised with strong religious values. However, he harbored a secret: he was gay. Grappling with this hidden truth, Bobby eventually decides to come out to his family.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1 - 2
The Danish GirlMovie · 2015 · 119m · DramaGerda Wegener asks her husband Einar to pose for her portrait, and in the process, Einar discovers the person Gerda envisioned for her. He begins living as a woman named Lili Elbe. With Gerda's love and encouragement, Lili starts a pioneering journey as a transgender woman.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.6 - 3
City of BordersMovie · 2009 · 66mA look inside Shushan, a gay bar in Jerusalem, through conversations with its owners and the people who frequent it.IMDb 7.7TMDB 1.0 - 4
Just FriendsMovie · 2019 · 84m · Romance, Drama, ComedyOn the tenth anniversary of his father's death, Joris confronts his fractured family when he meets Yad, a spirited young man who has recently returned home to the Netherlands after living independently. Both grappling with family complexities, Joris and Yad form an immediate bond and desire a deeper connection. However, they worry their families might disapprove of their budding relationship.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.1 - 5
Hunted: The War Against Gays in RussiaMovie · 2014 · 49mThis film examines the disturbing consequences of a recent anti-LGBT amendment to a Russian propaganda law. In Russia, where openly living LGBT people are few, the new law has triggered a surge in assaults against gay men and women. Often, these attacks are carried out by vigilantes who face no legal repercussions.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.1 - 6
HomophobiaMovie · 2012 · 23mA teenage soldier develops feelings for a fellow service member. These emotions surface as they spend their final night together at the border, isolated from others and carrying weapons.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9 - 7
Mr. Gay SyriaMovie · 2018 · 85mDirector Ayse Toprak uses the Mr Gay Syria pageant to challenge simplistic views of refugees. The event, a way for participants to escape political persecution, is organized by Mahmoud, who has already been granted asylum in Berlin. He hopes the winner will gain opportunities to travel and raise awareness of the dangers faced by LGBTQ+ Syrians.IMDb 6.7TMDB 4.8 - 8
Tongues UntiedMovie · 1990 · 55m · DocumentaryMarlon Riggs' documentary examines the importance of love between Black men through the themes of revolution and self-acceptance. Featuring contributions from poet Essex Hemphill and other gay Black people, the film explores the emotional aspects of their lives, relationships, and identities. Combining poetry, personal stories, and lighthearted moments, the movie portrays the depth of Black male connections as they deal with societal norms and cultural expectations. The film uses intimate conversations and lively dance sequences to illustrate the beauty and strength of its subjects. A memorable scene takes place at the "Institute of Snap!thology," where men learn finger-snapping, highlighting both their joy and their defiance. By blending storytelling and visuals, the film celebrates love as a revolutionary act for Black men while offering insights into identity and how society sees them.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 9
Free FallMovie · 2013 · 97m · Drama, RomanceMarc has a promising career in law enforcement and a baby on the way, so his life appears perfect. Everything changes when he meets fellow officer Kay during their routine jogs. Marc experiences a newfound sense of comfort and ease, and realizes he's falling in love with another man.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.7 - 10
Lord, Save Us from Your FollowersMovie · 2008 · 100mThis film offers a humorous, thought-provoking, and heartfelt look at the Culture Wars and faith in America. Through interviews with people representing all viewpoints, it presents a balanced, challenging, and engaging exploration of today's most contentious issues. Featuring Al Franken, Senator Rick Santorum, Dr. Tony Campolo, Sister Mary Timothy, Michael Reagan, and Ron Luce, alongside candid conversations with everyday people conducted by director Dan Merchant as "Bumpersticker Man," the film also includes a lively Culture Wars game show pitting liberals against conservatives and a surprising emotional moment captured at a Gay Pride event with a unique "reverse Confession Booth."IMDb 7.0TMDB 4.6 - 11
Portrait of JasonMovie · 1967 · 105m · DocumentarySet in the 1960s, the film centers on Jason Holliday, who portrays Aaron Payne, a young cabaret performer and streetwise hustler. The story offers a direct look at Holliday's life as he deals with the challenges of being Black and gay in America, balancing his ambitions with societal pressures and prejudice.
Through a personal, first-person perspective, the film explores a difficult period in American history. Holliday shares honest and vulnerable experiences, including his struggles with substance use, to depict the hardships faced by marginalized people. This significant story, preserved in 2013 by the Academy Film Archive and Milestone Films, stands as a lasting tribute to those who defied social expectations and pursued their own lives despite adversity.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 12
Farm Family: In Search of Gay Life in Rural AmericaMovie · 2004 · 73mThis film explores the lives of gay men in rural America, challenging common stereotypes. The characters include fathers, farmers, recluses, and those embracing unconventional identities.IMDb 7.0TMDB 1.0 - 13
MoonlightMovie · 2016 · 111m · DramaThis is a poignant story about a young man's journey to self-discovery, shown through three key periods in his life. It follows his experiences with love – the joy, heartbreak, and beauty – as he also comes to terms with his own identity.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.4 - 14
Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter MercadoMovie · 2020 · 96m · DocumentaryWalter Mercado was once the world's most beloved astrologer, now looking to revive his celebrated career. Born in Puerto Rico, Walter became a pioneering, gender-fluid psychic known for his iconic capes and daily televised horoscopes, captivating 120 million viewers for years before abruptly vanishing.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 15
The Happy SadMovie · 2013 · 87mIn New York City, two couples – one Black and gay, the other white and straight – navigate evolving relationships. They challenge traditional norms, examine their sexuality, and redefine what it means to be monogamous.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.2 - 16
The Gospel According to AndréMovie · 2018 · 94mThis film chronicles the life and career of André Leon Talley, the influential operatic fashion editor, from his experiences in the segregated American South to his rise in the world of high fashion. The documentary features interviews with Anna Wintour, Marc Jacobs, Tom Ford, Bethann Hardison, Valentino, and Manolo Blahnik.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.3 - 17
Gay Chorus Deep SouthMovie · 2019 · 98mFollowing a surge of discriminatory laws targeting LGBTQ+ people and the politically charged 2016 election, the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus tours the American Deep South.IMDb 7.2TMDB 3.3 - 18
Save MeMovie · 2008 · 96mA young man struggling with sex and drug addiction is sent to a Christian ministry to overcome what they consider a "gay affliction." There, he confronts truths about himself, his heart, and his beliefs.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.1 - 19
We Were HereMovie · 2011 · 90m · DocumentaryThis film examines the initial arrival of AIDS in San Francisco and the community's response during the early years of the epidemic. It follows how people stepped up to address the crisis.IMDb 7.9TMDB 6.8 - 20
Pink FlamingosMovie · 1972 · 93m · Comedy, CrimeIn Baltimore's criminal world, Divine, a well-known figure, clashes with Connie and Raymond Marble, a manipulative married couple. The Marbles want to seize the notoriety given to Divine by the media: "The Filthiest Person Alive." This story examines the darker aspects of ambition, as well as Divine's strength and cleverness in a conflict fueled by ego, pride, and public perception. With their reputations at stake, Divine and the Marbles wage a brutal battle for dominance, pushing each other to their limits and revealing the complexities of power in a world where fame is temporary and infamy has consequences.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.2 - 21
SpiralMovie · 2019 · 87m · Horror, Mystery, ThrillerA gay couple relocates to a quiet town seeking a better life for themselves and to raise their 16-year-old daughter with strong values. However, the idyllic neighborhood hides a complicated reality.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.8 - 22
Beautiful ThingMovie · 1996 · 92m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceOn a scorching summer in Thamesmead, a large estate in Southeast London, the lives of three teenagers become connected as they deal with the difficulties of becoming adults. This moving story about growing up explores their journeys of finding themselves, friendship, and the realities of life on the estate. The film captures the essence of youth through honest moments of feeling and happiness, set against a backdrop of urban hardship. The atmosphere is emotionally intense and visually striking, offering a clear picture of a crucial period in these characters' lives.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.2 - 23
Red StateMovie · 2011 · 88m · Horror, Action, ThrillerIn a small American town, a group of teenagers click on an online invitation promising intimacy, but find themselves targeted by a group of Christian fundamentalists with a disturbing plan.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.1 - 24
The Last MatchMovie · 2013 · 94m · Drama, RomanceIn Cuba, life is difficult for young gay men. Reinier, a teenage boy working as a rent boy, falls in love with Yosvani on a soccer field in their Havana neighborhood. Driven by the need to provide for his baby, teenage wife, and wife's grandmother, Reinier constantly seeks financial luck but repeatedly fails. Meanwhile, he becomes captivated by Yosvani, a handsome young man willing to abandon his wealthy girlfriend and his work for her father, a loan shark, for Reinier. But in the dangerous streets of Havana, the two boys must fight fiercely to protect their love.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.2 - 25
Making the BoysMovie · 2011 · 90m"Making the Boys" examines the story of "The Boys in the Band," the groundbreaking play and later film that significantly impacted perceptions of gay life. The film explores the drama, challenges, and lasting influence of this work, which was the first to connect with a broad audience before events like Proposition 8, shows like "Milk" or "Will & Grace," the AIDS epidemic, or the Stonewall uprising. Through recollections from the original cast and filmmakers, alongside insights from prominent figures in theater and film, the documentary details the making of this cultural landmark and its enduring legacy.IMDb 7.3TMDB 4.7 - 26
Ethan MaoMovie · 2004 · 87mEthan Mao was expelled from his home for being gay. He later returns, resorting to theft, and culminates in taking his family hostage on Thanksgiving Day.IMDb 6.1TMDB 4.3 - 27
A Sinner in MeccaMovie · 2015 · 79mA gay filmmaker faces immense risks filming in Saudi Arabia, where filmmaking is forbidden and homosexuality is punishable by death. Yet, Parvez Sharma undertakes a Hajj pilgrimage, a deeply significant journey in Islam and his own faith. He seeks to explore a different side of Islam, moving beyond contemporary concerns like extremism and sectarian conflict. Parvez aims to tell the story of his religion in an unprecedented way – a journey of self-discovery and spiritual struggle.IMDb 4.8TMDB 5.8 - 28
SlapMovie · 2014 · 25mA young boxer struggling to find his identity embraces his authentic self, even if it means risking everything he has.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.0 - 29
Hot to TrotMovie · 2017 · 88mHot to Trot explores the world of competitive ballroom dance among same-sex couples, following four dancers – two men and two women – across four years. The film reveals their lives both on and off the dance floor as they pursue their passion.IMDb 7.6TMDB 1.0 - 30
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 - 31
Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard RustinMovie · 2003 · 85mThis documentary explores the life of Bayard Rustin, widely known for organizing the 1963 March on Washington.IMDb 7.8TMDB 5.0 - 32
Decoding Alan TuringMovie · 2009 · 17mAlan Turing, a pioneer of modern computing, played a crucial role at Bletchley Park in deciphering the German Enigma code. Following the war, he faced persecution in Britain due to his homosexuality and ultimately died under suspicious circumstances, believed to be poisoning.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.7 - 33
Naz & MaalikMovie · 2015 · 86mTwo young Muslim men living in secret in Brooklyn sell goods to make ends meet. They grapple with their identities and feelings for each other, but their hidden lives inadvertently draw them into the focus of the War on Terror.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.5 - 34
Before StonewallMovie · 1984 · 87mThe Stonewall Inn in New York City is widely considered the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, following the 1969 police raid that sparked a riot led by drag queens. This documentary uses a wealth of archival footage, film clips, and personal stories to build a visual history of the gay community leading up to the Stonewall uprising.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.5 - 35
StonewallMovie · 1995 · 99mA close-knit group of gay friends strives for dignity and self-respect as the movement for gay rights approaches its pivotal moment.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.7 - 36
After StonewallMovie · 1999 · 88mFollowing "Before Stonewall," this film chronicles the history of gay and lesbian life from the 1969 Stonewall riots to today. Narrated by Melissa Etheridge, the documentary details the community's efforts, challenges, triumphs, and setbacks in achieving its place as a vital part of North American society.IMDb 7.5TMDB 5.4 - 37
Circus of BooksMovie · 2019 · 92m · Documentary, HistoryFor decades, a kind Jewish couple operated Circus of Books, a bookstore and a central hub for the gay community in Los Angeles. Their daughter, who is also the director, documents their life and the changing times around them.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 38
A Person Is More Important Than Anything ElseMovie · 2014 · 29mInspired by James Baldwin's powerful voice, artist Hank Willis Thomas combines audio, images, and video – including news clips, speeches, and interviews – into a flowing digital presentation. This work connects Baldwin's 20th-century ideas about race, gender, class, and sexuality to today's concerns. Created for NY Live Arts in 2014, the installation uses history to encourage us to reconsider our place in the present. - 39
L.A.: A Queer HistoryMovie · 2021 · 129mWhile the 1969 Stonewall Riots are often seen as the start of the modern gay rights movement, Los Angeles has a vibrant queer history stretching back to the early 1900s. *L.A. A Queer History* is an engaging and moving epic that explores nearly a century of this history. It features artists, academics, and personal stories from LGBTQ elders who lived through it all.IMDb 7.8TMDB 3.2 - 40
5BMovie · 2018 · 93mAmidst the HIV/AIDS crisis and growing fear, a specific ward – designated by a number and letter on the fifth floor of San Francisco General Hospital – became a focal point. It was the first unit in the nation built to care for people with AIDS. The nurses there prioritized compassion and overall well-being, offering a remarkable sense of humanity during a devastating time marked by panic surrounding risk and infection.IMDb 7.9TMDB 5.8 - 41Equality UMovie · 2010 · 90mEQUALITY U is a documentary following 34 young activists on the Soulforce Equality Ride. They face warm welcomes at some locations and arrests for trespassing or attempting dialogue at others. Everywhere they go, they connect with young people who have rarely encountered openly LGBTQ+ individuals comfortable being themselves. Written by Dave O'Brien.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.3
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Matt Shepard Is a Friend of MineMovie · 2014 · 89m · History, DocumentaryThis film offers a personal look at Matthew Shepard, the young gay man who was murdered in a highly publicized hate crime. It’s a story about grief, affection, and bravery experienced during an unimaginable event.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 43
Chris & Don: A Love StoryMovie · 2008 · 90mChris & Don explores the enduring relationship between writer Christopher Isherwood and his younger partner, artist Don Bachardy. The film blends contemporary interviews with archival footage the couple filmed in the 1950s, selections from Isherwood's diaries, and lighthearted animations to tell their love story.IMDb 7.8TMDB 5.8 - 44
Gayniggers from Outer SpaceMovie · 1992 · 26m · Comedy, Science FictionA satirical comedy follows aliens on a galaxy-wide mission: to free men from what they see as female control. They decide Earth is ideal for a society of only men, aiming to reshape gender roles and challenge traditional power dynamics. The film prompts laughter and reflection on our own ideas about gender, authority, and societal expectations.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.7 - 45
KikiMovie · 2016 · 94mTwenty-five years after "Paris is Burning," this film returns to the vibrant world of voguing battles in New York City's Kiki scene. Competition between Houses requires strong leadership, rigorous practice, and flawless performances. A collaboration between Kiki leader Twiggy Pucci Garçon and filmmaker Sara Jordenö, the film offers exclusive access to this intense environment, revealing the daily lives of young LGBTQ+ people of color in NYC. The young performers embrace the motto, "Not About us Without Us." Twiggy and Sara's unique perspective provides a fresh portrayal of a marginalized community fighting for visibility and political change.IMDb 6.8TMDB 5.6 - 46
Ring of Fire: The Emile Griffith StoryMovie · 2005 · 87mThis is the story of Griffith, a six-time world welterweight boxing champion. It explores themes of violence, love, sex, politics, and the media through his life.IMDb 7.5TMDB 8.0 - 47
The Silver Screen: Color Me LavenderMovie · 1997 · 100mThis film explores a collection of personal artifacts – photographs and notes – from the past, concealing hidden meanings. The film gradually reveals how seemingly harmless images, viewed decades later, now suggest homosexual undertones.IMDb 6.3TMDB 4.9 - 48
PalmerMovie · 2021 · 110m · DramaTwelve years after serving a prison sentence, former football star Eddie Palmer returns home to rebuild his life. He develops a close friendship with Sam, a boy struggling with difficulties at home. However, Eddie's history puts his newfound stability and family at risk.IMDb 7.3TMDB 8.1 - 49Oscar WildeMovie · 1972
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Man MadeMovie · 2018 · 98mMAN MADE follows four trans men – Dominic, Rese, Mason, and Kennie – who share a passion for bodybuilding. Each has overcome challenges including adoption, homelessness, relationships, and self-harm. The film explores their lives through the unique setting of FTMFitCon, the world's only FTM bodybuilding competition. It examines how they define masculinity while considering the social, racial, and economic factors that shape their experiences. For these men, competing isn’t about winning; it’s about self-acceptance and being seen authentically.IMDb 7.4 - 51
The Matthew Shepard StoryMovie · 2002 · 92mThe film details the final days of the trial for the men who murdered Matthew Shepard, a college student openly gay at the time, in 1998. It also recounts the weeks leading up to his death with stark detail. Stockard Channing gives an Emmy®-winning performance as Judy, Matthew's mother, in a story about a murder that galvanized the country. The film also stars Sam Waterston from Law & Order.IMDb 7.3TMDB 5.4 - 52
The Times of Harvey MilkMovie · 1984 · 90m · DocumentaryThe film tells the inspiring story of Harvey Milk, a human rights advocate who bravely fought for equality and representation. Facing prejudice as an openly gay man in a time of intolerance, Milk became a powerful voice for marginalized communities. He became one of the first openly LGBTQ+ individuals elected to public office in the U.S. His dedication to social justice continues to inspire, even after his assassination in 1978. The film blends biography and drama to portray the life of this remarkable person whose unwavering spirit profoundly impacted history.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.2 - 53
Undercover Doctor: Cure Me, I'm GayMovie · 2014 · 48mDr. Jessen's investigation reveals a straightforward test for identifying gay men: Do you own light tan shoes? Colorful, well-pressed check shirts? Classical CDs? Do you enjoy Adele? If so, you are gay. As part of a $3,000 monthly program to "de-gay" individuals, these signs will be removed – and possibly destroyed – as part of the process.IMDb 7.0TMDB 1.0 - 54
VitoMovie · 2011 · 93mFollowing the Stonewall riots, Vito Russo became a prominent gay activist and a sharp critic of how LGBTQ+ people were depicted in movies and television. He wrote "The Celluloid Closet," the first book to analyze Hollywood's portrayal of gay characters. During the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, Vito passionately advocated for justice as part of ACT UP, a group formed to respond to the crisis. He died in 1990.IMDb 8.1TMDB 6.9 - 55
TransMilitaryMovie · 2018 · 93mWith transgender people currently barred from the U.S. military, four service members face discharge as they fight for the freedom they believe in.IMDb 6.5TMDB 4.8 - 56
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 - 57
Campaign of Hate: Russia and Gay PropagandaMovie · 2014 · 78mWhile much of the world advances toward LGBTQ+ equality, Russia appears to be moving in the opposite direction. Anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes and laws are growing across the nation. In 2013, the Russian parliament enacted a ban on what it calls "gay propaganda," essentially criminalizing almost any public discussion of LGBTQ+ rights. This documentary aims to inform viewers about this reality.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 58
Mystery Music Show: King of Mask SingerMovie · 2010 · 90m · DramaIn 1980, George O'Dowd challenges his parents with his unconventional style and moves in with Peter, who dresses as Marilyn Monroe. They find a scene at Steve Strange's Blitz Club, where George works in the cloakroom. His relationships are difficult until he meets Kirk, who introduces him to drummer Jon Moss, whom George is drawn to. After being dismissed from the Blitz and rejected by Kirk, George seeks help from Malcolm McLaren of the Sex Pistols. He briefly joins McLaren's band Bow Wow Wow, gaining the attention of fan Mikey North, who invites him to sing in his new group. There, George reconnects with Jon. They begin an affair, and the group becomes the successful Culture Club. Four years later, struggling with tabloid scrutiny and rumors of drug addiction, George turns to Jon for guidance about his future.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3