If you’re looking to explore some hidden gems in LGBTQ+ cinema, you’ve come to the right place! These films might not have made it to the mainstream spotlight, but they are powerful, moving, and rich with diverse stories. So grab some popcorn and get ready for a weekend of compelling storytelling!
1. Tangerine
Shot entirely on an iPhone, this vibrant film follows a transgender sex worker who discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity on Christmas Eve and embarks on a quest for revenge.
- Best for: Those interested in authentic stories of resilience and friendship.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2015 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: How far would you go for friendship?
2. The Half of It
This modern take on Cyrano de Bergerac tells the story of a shy, introverted student who helps a jock woo a girl she secretly has feelings for.
- Best for: Viewers who appreciate heartwarming tales of unrequited love.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Year: 2020 | Age Rating: PG-13 | IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Question: What happens when love complicates friendship?
3. Pride
Based on a true story, this film depicts the alliance between LGBTQ+ activists and striking miners in 1980s Wales, showcasing the power of solidarity and community.
- Best for: Fans of inspiring stories about social justice and activism.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2014 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Question: How can diverse groups come together for a common cause?
4. Carol
Set in the 1950s, this beautifully shot film follows the forbidden romance between an aspiring photographer and an older woman going through a difficult divorce.
- Best for: Viewers who love visually stunning and emotionally charged love stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2015 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: What challenges do love stories face in a society with strict norms?
5. The Way He Looks
This sweet Brazilian film tells the story of a blind teenager seeking independence while developing feelings for a new student.
- Best for: Fans of tender coming-of-age romances.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2014 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Question: How do first loves shape our understanding of the world?
6. Boys
Set in the Netherlands, this film follows a teenage athlete who finds himself falling for a fellow runner during a training camp, exploring the complexities of first love and self-discovery.
- Best for: Viewers who enjoy heartfelt coming-of-age stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2014 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: What does it mean to truly discover yourself?
7. God’s Own Country
In this intimate drama, a young farmer’s life changes when a Romanian migrant worker arrives to help with lambing season, igniting a passionate romance.
- Best for: Fans of raw, emotional narratives set against beautiful landscapes.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Question: How does love transform our lives in unexpected ways?
8. A Fantastic Woman
This Chilean film centers around a transgender woman navigating grief and prejudice after the sudden death of her partner, showcasing her strength and resilience.
- Best for: Viewers interested in stories of identity and empowerment.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: What does it mean to fight for your identity?
9. Moonlight
This groundbreaking film tells the story of a young Black man grappling with his identity and sexuality while growing up in a rough neighborhood of Miami.
- Best for: Fans of powerful, coming-of-age stories that explore complex themes.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Question: How do our environments shape our identities?
10. The Handmaiden
This erotic psychological thriller, set in 1930s Korea, follows a conman who hires a pickpocket to help him seduce a wealthy heiress, leading to unexpected twists.
- Best for: Viewers who appreciate intricate plots and beautiful cinematography.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Question: What happens when love becomes entangled with deception?
11. Pride & Prejudice: Atlanta
This contemporary retelling of the classic Jane Austen novel focuses on a Black LGBTQ+ community, exploring love and relationships in a fresh, engaging way.
- Best for: Fans of modern adaptations with diverse perspectives.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Question: How does love transcend societal expectations?
12. Boys in Brazil
In this coming-of-age story, a teenager navigates his emerging sexuality in a small Brazilian town while dealing with familial pressures and societal expectations.
- Best for: Those who enjoy heartfelt narratives about self-discovery.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Question: How do societal norms influence our personal journeys?
13. First Girl I Loved
This coming-of-age drama follows a high school girl who struggles with her feelings for a classmate, leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of love.
- Best for: Viewers who appreciate youthful explorations of love and identity.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Question: How do our first crushes shape our understanding of love?
14. Weekend
This intimate drama chronicles a brief encounter between two men over a weekend, exploring the depths of connection and vulnerability in modern relationships.
- Best for: Fans of slow-burn romances with emotional depth.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2011 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Question: What does it mean to connect with someone, even if just for a moment?
15. The Wedding Party
This comedic drama centers around a group of LGBTQ+ friends navigating relationships, love, and life’s challenges as they prepare for a wedding.
- Best for: Viewers who enjoy lighthearted stories with a fun twist.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.3
- Question: How do friendships evolve during major life events?
16. My Own Private Idaho
This film follows two friends on a journey of personal discovery and emotional exploration as they navigate the world of street hustling and their complex feelings for each other.
- Best for: Those who appreciate innovative storytelling and unique character arcs.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1991 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: What does it mean to find home in unexpected places?
17. The Last of Us
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, this series features a deep bond between two characters, exploring themes of love and humanity in the face of despair.
- Best for: Fans of gripping narratives that intertwine survival with emotional depth.
- Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max.
- Year: 2023 | Age Rating: TV-MA | IMDb Rating: 8.7
- Question: How do connections survive in the darkest of times?
18. The Edge of Seventeen
While primarily a coming-of-age story, it explores LGBTQ+ themes as the protagonist navigates friendships, love interests, and the challenges of adolescence.
- Best for: Viewers who enjoy relatable high school dramas.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Question: How does adolescence shape our views on love and friendship?
19. Frameline: The San Francisco International LGBTQ+ Film Festival
This annual festival showcases a variety of LGBTQ+ films, celebrating diversity and representation in cinema.
- Best for: Film buffs who want to explore a range of LGBTQ+ narratives.
- Where to Watch: Festival screenings; check local listings.
- Year: Annual | Age Rating: Varies | IMDb Rating: N/A
- Question: What stories from the LGBTQ+ community resonate with you?
20. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
This classic film follows two drag queens and a transgender woman as they journey across Australia to perform a drag show, exploring themes of acceptance and friendship.
- Best for: Fans of vibrant, feel-good road trip comedies.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1994 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: How do adventures help us find our true selves?
1. Call Me by Your Name
Set in the sun-soaked Italian countryside, this romantic drama follows the passionate summer romance between a 17-year-old student and his father’s research assistant.
- Best for: Viewers who love slow-burn romances with rich emotional depth.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.9
- Question: How do fleeting moments shape our lives forever?
2. The Miseducation of Cameron Post
After being caught with another girl, Cameron is sent to a conversion therapy center where she befriends fellow misfits and begins to discover her true self.
- Best for: Those who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a twist.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Question: How does one find strength in the face of adversity?
3. The Birdcage
In this hilarious comedy, a gay cabaret owner and his drag queen partner put up a false straight front when their son brings home his fiancée’s ultra-conservative parents.
- Best for: Fans of comedies that challenge societal norms.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1996 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: What lengths would you go to for family?
4. A Very British Sex Scandal
This drama explores the true story of the sexual relationships and scandals surrounding a British politician in the 1960s, shedding light on the societal attitudes of the time.
- Best for: Viewers interested in historical dramas with a political twist.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.7
- Question: How do scandals shape public perception of individuals?
5. Summer Storm
This German film follows a group of friends who confront their feelings and relationships during a rowing summer camp, highlighting themes of love and identity.
- Best for: Fans of youth dramas that explore sexuality.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2004 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Question: How do friendships evolve as we grow and change?
6. The Color Purple
Based on Alice Walker’s novel, this poignant story follows the life of Celie, an African-American woman in the early 1900s, as she navigates love, loss, and self-discovery.
- Best for: Those who appreciate powerful narratives about resilience and growth.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1985 | Age Rating: PG-13 | IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Question: How does love overcome the greatest of obstacles?
7. The Handmaiden
This gripping film follows a con artist who poses as a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress but falls in love with her, leading to unexpected twists and turns.
- Best for: Viewers who enjoy complex plots with rich character development.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Question: What happens when love is intertwined with deceit?
8. Moffie
Set in apartheid South Africa, this harrowing film follows a young soldier who struggles with his sexuality while navigating the brutal military environment.
- Best for: Those interested in powerful narratives about identity and oppression.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Question: How do societal norms dictate personal choices?
9. Happiest Season
This holiday romantic comedy follows a woman who plans to propose to her girlfriend while visiting her conservative family but finds out her partner hasn’t come out yet.
- Best for: Fans of heartfelt, festive rom-coms that explore family dynamics.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2020 | Age Rating: PG-13 | IMDb Rating: 6.1
- Question: What does it mean to be true to yourself during the holidays?
10. Boys Don’t Cry
Based on a true story, this film chronicles the life of Brandon Teena, a transgender man navigating love and betrayal in rural America.
- Best for: Viewers interested in raw, real-life stories of identity and struggle.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1999 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: What sacrifices do people make in pursuit of their identity?
11. The Last Match
In this gripping film, two women confront their pasts during a high-stakes wrestling match, blending themes of love, rivalry, and redemption.
- Best for: Those who enjoy sports dramas with emotional depth.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Question: How does competition shape our relationships?
12. Beach Rats
This coming-of-age story follows a Brooklyn teenager as he grapples with his identity while exploring relationships with both women and men during a summer of self-discovery.
- Best for: Fans of intimate, character-driven narratives.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Question: How does a summer of change influence your identity?
13. A Single Man
Set in 1962, this visually stunning film follows a gay college professor grieving the loss of his partner, exploring themes of love and loneliness.
- Best for: Those who appreciate beautifully crafted, emotional narratives.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2009 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Question: How does grief shape our perception of life?
14. The Favourite
In this darkly comedic historical drama, two women vie for the affections of Queen Anne in 18th-century England, leading to a tangled web of love and rivalry.
- Best for: Fans of quirky, unconventional love stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Question: What lengths would you go to win someone’s heart?
15. Boy Erased
Based on a true story, this film follows a young man who is forced into a conversion therapy program by his parents and his fight for acceptance and identity.
- Best for: Viewers interested in impactful narratives about resilience and courage.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 6.7
- Question: How can love help us overcome our deepest fears?
16. The Wedding Banquet
This comedy-drama follows a Taiwanese immigrant in New York who gets married to a woman to appease his traditional parents while hiding his sexuality.
- Best for: Those who enjoy heartwarming stories about love and family.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1993 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: How do cultural expectations shape our personal lives?
17. God’s Own Country
This British drama centers on a young farmer whose life changes after a Romanian migrant worker arrives, leading to an unexpected romance.
- Best for: Viewers who appreciate raw, emotional storytelling in beautiful landscapes.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Question: How does love flourish in unlikely places?
18. Fire Island
In this modern romantic comedy, a group of friends embark on a vacation to Fire Island, confronting love, relationships, and the realities of queer life.
- Best for: Fans of lighthearted comedies with a fresh twist.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2022 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Question: What does friendship mean when it comes to romance?
19. Tangerine
Shot entirely on an iPhone, this vibrant film follows a transgender sex worker who discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity on Christmas Eve and sets out for revenge.
- Best for: Viewers who enjoy gritty, real-life stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2015 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: How do friendship and loyalty intersect in difficult times?
20. Paris is Burning
This groundbreaking documentary provides a look into the drag ball culture of New York City in the 1980s, exploring themes of identity, class, race, and gender.
- Best for: Those interested in the history of LGBTQ+ culture and community.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Year: 1990 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Question: How do communities create safe spaces for self-expression?
1. The Half of It
This modern retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac follows a shy, introverted student who helps a jock woo a girl she secretly has feelings for, leading to an unexpected friendship.
- Best for: Fans of coming-of-age stories with a twist.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Year: 2020 | Age Rating: PG-13 | IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Question: How does unrequited love shape our friendships?
2. Rafiki
In Nairobi, two young women fall in love despite their families’ political rivalry, highlighting the clash between love and societal expectations.
- Best for: Viewers interested in global LGBTQ+ narratives.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Question: What sacrifices would you make for love in a challenging environment?
3. Pariah
This powerful coming-of-age story follows a Brooklyn teenager as she embraces her identity as a lesbian while navigating her conservative family and community.
- Best for: Those who appreciate heartfelt narratives of self-discovery.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2011 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: How do our identities shape our relationships with family?
4. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
Two drag queens and a transgender woman embark on a road trip across Australia to perform a drag show, facing challenges and acceptance along the way.
- Best for: Fans of vibrant, uplifting road trip movies.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1994 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: How does traveling impact our understanding of identity?
5. A Fantastic Woman
This poignant film tells the story of a transgender woman who faces both grief and discrimination after the death of her older boyfriend, showcasing her fight for dignity and respect.
- Best for: Viewers interested in strong character-driven stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: What does it mean to truly honor someone’s memory?
6. Tomboy
This French drama follows a 10-year-old girl who presents as a boy over the summer, exploring themes of identity and childhood innocence.
- Best for: Those who enjoy subtle, heartfelt coming-of-age stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2011 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: How do childhood experiences shape our understanding of gender?
7. The Way He Looks
This Brazilian coming-of-age film tells the story of a blind teenager who falls in love with a new student, exploring themes of independence and acceptance.
- Best for: Fans of sweet, heartwarming romances.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2014 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Question: How does love empower us to overcome challenges?
8. Boys in Brazil
This documentary follows the lives of young Brazilian boys navigating their sexual identities in a conservative society, shedding light on the LGBTQ+ experience in Brazil.
- Best for: Viewers interested in real-life stories and social issues.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2014 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: How do societal attitudes influence personal journeys?
9. Pride
Based on a true story, this comedy-drama follows a group of LGBTQ+ activists who support striking miners in 1980s Wales, showcasing solidarity and friendship.
- Best for: Fans of uplifting stories about activism and community.
- Where to Watch: Available on Hulu.
- Year: 2014 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Question: What role does solidarity play in social movements?
10. Shelter
This romantic drama centers on a young surfer who finds love and purpose while navigating his feelings for his best friend’s older brother.
- Best for: Those who enjoy heartfelt romantic dramas.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2007 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Question: How does love influence our dreams and ambitions?
11. Weekend
This intimate drama follows a one-night stand that develops into a meaningful relationship over a weekend, exploring themes of connection and vulnerability.
- Best for: Fans of realistic, character-driven romances.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2011 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Question: Can a brief encounter change the course of your life?
12. My Own Private Idaho
This cult classic follows two friends on a journey of personal discovery while navigating the world of street hustling and love in the Pacific Northwest.
- Best for: Those who appreciate unconventional narratives.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 1991 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: What does home mean when you feel like an outsider?
13. Latter Days
This romantic drama follows a young gay man who falls in love with a Mormon missionary, exploring themes of faith, love, and acceptance.
- Best for: Viewers who enjoy stories about love that transcends boundaries.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2003 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Question: How does love challenge our beliefs and values?
14. Becks
This film follows a woman who returns home after a failed relationship and embarks on a new romance with a local musician, blending themes of love and self-discovery.
- Best for: Those who enjoy music-themed romance stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.6
- Question: How do our pasts influence our future relationships?
15. The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson
This documentary investigates the mysterious death of LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson and its impact on the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in America.
- Best for: Viewers interested in LGBTQ+ history and activism.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: How does activism continue to shape our world today?
16. A Date for Mad Mary
This Irish film follows a recently released prisoner as she navigates love, friendship, and the complexities of relationships in her small town.
- Best for: Fans of heartfelt comedies with a touch of drama.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Question: How do friendships evolve in times of change?
17. Naked Boys Singing!
This musical comedy features a series of songs performed by a group of young men, exploring various themes of love, sexuality, and acceptance.
- Best for: Those who enjoy lighthearted musicals with a twist.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2007 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.1
- Question: How can humor and music break down barriers?
18. G.B.F. (Gay Best Friend)
This comedic film follows a high school boy who becomes the hottest accessory for three girls looking to boost their popularity, exploring friendship and identity.
- Best for: Fans of teen comedies that challenge stereotypes.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2013 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 5.6
- Question: How do friendship dynamics change in high school?
19. I Am Jonas
This French film tells the story of a man reflecting on a passionate summer romance from his youth, as he grapples with the complexity of love and identity.
- Best for: Those who appreciate bittersweet romantic tales.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Question: How does our first love shape our future relationships?
20. The Fall of the American Empire
This film follows a man who inadvertently becomes involved in a heist, leading to unexpected consequences while exploring themes of morality and choices.
- Best for: Viewers looking for a blend of comedy and drama.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Question: What would you do when faced with moral dilemmas?
If you’re searching for fresh and engaging stories, check out this new batch of hidden gems! Each film showcases compelling characters and thought-provoking themes.
1. The Handmaiden
This South Korean film, inspired by the novel “Fingersmith,” follows a con artist who becomes a handmaiden to a wealthy heiress, leading to unexpected twists and romance.
- Best for: Fans of intricate plots and lavish visuals.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Question: How do love and deception intertwine in relationships?
2. The Way Out
In this poignant drama, a young man grapples with his sexuality while navigating a religious environment, ultimately seeking acceptance from his family.
- Best for: Those interested in emotional journeys of self-acceptance.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2020 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Question: How do faith and sexuality coexist in your life?
3. All the Dead Ones
Set in Brazil, this film explores themes of identity, family, and love as a young man reflects on his past while facing societal pressures and personal struggles.
- Best for: Viewers interested in introspective narratives.
- Where to Watch: Available on Netflix.
- Year: 2020 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.3
- Question: How does the past influence our present identities?
4. God’s Own Country
This British film follows a young farmer in Yorkshire who develops a passionate relationship with a Romanian migrant worker, exploring themes of love and transformation.
- Best for: Fans of heartfelt rural romances.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Question: What changes can love bring to our lives?
5. Water Lilies
This French coming-of-age drama follows a teenage girl who becomes infatuated with a synchronized swimming team, exploring themes of desire and identity.
- Best for: Those who appreciate complex teen dramas.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2007 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.2
- Question: How does infatuation shape our teenage years?
6. Seventeen
In this coming-of-age film, two boys who have known each other since childhood confront their feelings for one another as they prepare to graduate high school.
- Best for: Fans of sweet, youthful romances.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Question: How do friendships evolve during pivotal life changes?
7. Sauvage (Wild)
This raw and honest portrayal follows a young male sex worker navigating love, loneliness, and the search for connection in a turbulent world.
- Best for: Viewers who appreciate gritty realism.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Question: What does it mean to seek connection in a disconnected world?
8. Boy Erased
Based on a true story, this film follows the son of a Baptist pastor who is forced to undergo conversion therapy after coming out, confronting his identity and family expectations.
- Best for: Those interested in stories of resilience and acceptance.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 6.6
- Question: What impact do family beliefs have on personal identity?
9. The New Queer Cinema
This collection showcases various short films that explore LGBTQ+ themes and experiences, pushing boundaries and challenging norms.
- Best for: Fans of experimental and diverse storytelling.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: Various | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: N/A
- Question: How do short films impact our understanding of LGBTQ+ stories?
10. For Ellen
In this drama, a struggling musician fights for custody of his young daughter while grappling with his past and his relationship with his ex-wife.
- Best for: Viewers interested in family dynamics and redemption stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2012 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Question: How do personal choices shape our roles as parents?
11. A Moment in the Reeds
This Finnish drama tells the story of a Syrian refugee and a young Finn who form an unexpected bond over a weekend spent in a summer house, exploring themes of love and acceptance.
- Best for: Those who appreciate cross-cultural romance.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: What happens when two worlds collide in love?
12. Sister Outsider
This documentary celebrates the life and work of Audre Lorde, a powerful voice in the feminist and LGBTQ+ movements, exploring her legacy and impact on society.
- Best for: Those interested in influential LGBTQ+ activists.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Question: How does activism inspire future generations?
13. Call Me by Your Name
Set in 1980s Italy, this film follows a summer romance between a teenage boy and an older graduate student, beautifully capturing the complexities of first love.
- Best for: Romantic drama lovers.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2017 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.9
- Question: How does the setting influence a romantic story?
14. Frantz
Set in post-World War I France, this drama follows a young woman who forms a bond with a mysterious man mourning the loss of her fiancé, leading to revelations about love and loss.
- Best for: Fans of historical romances with depth.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Question: How do love and loss intersect in our lives?
15. The Freedom to Marry
This documentary chronicles the fight for marriage equality in the United States, focusing on the activists who played a pivotal role in the movement.
- Best for: Those interested in LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2016 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Question: How do movements for equality change societal norms?
16. Pride & Prejudice: Atlanta
This modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic focuses on love, family, and social class while highlighting the experiences of LGBTQ+ characters in Atlanta.
- Best for: Fans of classic literature reimagined with a twist.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Question: How do timeless stories resonate with contemporary audiences?
17. Mapplethorpe
This biographical drama explores the life of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, examining his controversial art and impact on the LGBTQ+ community.
- Best for: Art enthusiasts interested in LGBTQ+ history.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.2
- Question: How does art challenge societal norms and perceptions?
18. The Favourite
Set in the early 18th century, this darkly comedic drama follows the rivalry between two cousins vying for the favor of Queen Anne, blending historical events with LGBTQ+ themes.
- Best for: Fans of unconventional period dramas.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2018 | Age Rating: R | IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Question: How do power dynamics influence relationships?
19. The Death of Dick Long
This dark comedy revolves around a group of friends who must cover up a mysterious death that leads to unexpected consequences, combining humor with a thrilling narrative.
- Best for: Viewers who enjoy absurd and offbeat stories.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2019 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Question: How do secrets change friendships?
20. Tangerine
This groundbreaking film follows a transgender sex worker on Christmas Eve as she discovers her boyfriend’s infidelity, showcasing vibrant performances and raw storytelling.
- Best for: Fans of innovative filmmaking and authentic representation.
- Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
- Year: 2015 | Age Rating: NR | IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Question: How does the setting influence personal stories?
Your Weekend Awaits!
These underrated LGBTQ+ films are perfect for diving deep into stories of love, identity, and resilience. Each film presents a unique perspective, offering something for everyone. Which film will you be streaming first?