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Pride Month is a time to celebrate the rich and diverse stories within the LGBTQ+ community. Films have long been a powerful medium for telling these stories, providing representation, and fostering understanding and empathy. Here are eight must-watch films that celebrate LGBTQ pride and offer a glimpse into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of the community.
1. Moonlight (2016)
Director: Barry Jenkins
Synopsis: Moonlight is a poignant coming-of-age drama that follows the life of Chiron, a young black man growing up in a rough neighborhood in Miami. The film is divided into three chapters, each depicting a different stage of Chiron’s life as he grapples with his identity and sexuality. “Moonlight” beautifully captures the challenges and beauty of self-discovery and love in a world that often seems harsh and unyielding.
Why Watch: This Oscar-winning film is celebrated for its stunning cinematography, powerful storytelling, and profound exploration of identity, making it a cornerstone of LGBTQ cinema.
2. Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Synopsis: Set in the picturesque Italian countryside during the summer of 1983, Call Me by Your Name tells the story of a passionate and transformative romance between 17-year-old Elio and his father’s 24-year-old research assistant, Oliver. The film explores themes of first love, heartbreak, and the bittersweet nature of fleeting moments.
Why Watch: With its lush visuals, evocative soundtrack, and tender performances by Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer, this film is a beautiful celebration of love and self-discovery.
3. The Birdcage (1996)
Director: Mike Nichols
Synopsis: The Birdcage is a comedy that centers around a gay couple, Armand and Albert, who run a drag nightclub in Miami. When their son announces his engagement to a conservative politician’s daughter, hilarity ensues as the couple attempts to play it straight for the in-laws.
Why Watch: This film is a delightful and heartwarming comedy that showcases the importance of family and acceptance, featuring standout performances by Robin Williams and Nathan Lane.
4. Paris Is Burning (1990)
Director: Jennie Livingston
Synopsis: This groundbreaking documentary provides an intimate look at the vibrant ball culture of New York City in the late 1980s. It highlights the lives of African American and Latino LGBTQ performers, offering insight into their struggles, aspirations, and the sense of community they find within the ballroom scene.
Why Watch: Paris Is Burning is a seminal work that captures the resilience and creativity of a marginalized community, serving as a vital piece of LGBTQ cultural history.
5. Blue is the Warmest Color (2013)
Director: Abdellatif Kechiche
Synopsis: This French film follows the intense and passionate relationship between Adèle, a high school student, and Emma, an art student with blue hair. The story spans several years, exploring the complexities of love, identity, and personal growth.
Why Watch: Blue is the Warmest Color is known for its raw and honest portrayal of a young woman’s journey of self-discovery, offering a deep and emotional narrative that resonates with many.
6. Milk (2008)
Director: Gus Van Sant
Synopsis: Milk is a biographical film about Harvey Milk, the first openly gay person to be elected to public office in California. The film chronicles Milk’s activism and his fight for gay rights in the 1970s, leading up to his tragic assassination.
Why Watch: This powerful biopic, featuring an Oscar-winning performance by Sean Penn, is an inspiring testament to the impact of one man’s courage and dedication to the LGBTQ rights movement.
These six films offer a rich tapestry of LGBTQ stories, celebrating love, resilience, and identity. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt drama, a tender romance, a hilarious comedy, or an inspiring biopic, these films are sure to inspire and resonate, making them perfect choices for celebrating Pride Month.
Happy viewing!
WAY more touching than any listed above, IMHO, is Supernova, with Stanley Tucci & Colin Firth as a couple simply dealing with life.
Best of all is Big Eden. An example of the MOST supportive “village” ever.
They’re a waste. I’ve yet to see any lgb film that reflects my life and values or anyone that I know.
realty vs fantasy
With article after article in all media this month tied to LGTBQ+ and “PRIDE!”, that’s plenty on the topic for me, thanks.
This comment is directed at Eric regarding the film “Big Eden”. It is a fun, funny and touching story. I must say though that the reason I’m writing is because when it was in theaters, one local film critic described it as a very unusual science fiction movie. Why? Because it describes a world that is totally devoid of homophobia! Imagine a world where when a neighbor is having social problems, virtually the whole community steps right up to help. Even the christian priest does his part when he asks the congregation, “What would Jesus do?” Well, the answer in… Read more »