These LGBTQIA+ films will redefine people’s perceptions of identities and relationships, reminding us that love in all forms is universal and powerful.
As we celebrate pride month this June, a diverse array of LGBTQIA+ themed films promise to challenge, inspire, and transform perceptions of identity, self-worth, and relationships. As society evolves, these films mirror the growing understanding of love’s true nature, uniting together people from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and genders. By bringing these stories to the forefront, filmmakers educate and inspire global audiences to embrace inclusivity, representation, and acceptance.
Here are five LGBTQIA+ themed films that are worth adding to your watch list in celebration of Pride month.
READ ALSO: Five Films For Freedom: The British Council Celebrates A Decade Of LGBTQIA+ Stories
“Good Grief” (2023)
Good Grief (2023) is a heartfelt comedy-drama directed by Dan Levy, who also stars in the film. He formed a cast that includes Ruth Negga, Himesh Patel, Luke Evans, and Celia Imrie.
The film told Marc Dreyfus’ story, who faced grief following the sudden death of his husband. He attempted to cope with his loss and sought to find his purpose, leading him to embark on a journey to self-discovery. He reconnected with his old college friends, who encouraged him to find a new perspective on life.
Marc’s journey will be filled with moments of reflection, fun escapades, and relationships that remind him of love, friendship, and resilience. The film touches base on getting to know oneself, coping with loss, and the power of moving forward.
“Fitting In” (2023)
Maddie Ziegler bore the lead role in the film Fitting In (2024), a coming of age dramedy (drama-comedy) that Molly McGlynn directed. Lindy, the main character of the story, battles with the hardships of adolescence and getting to know her true identity.
Lindy finds out she has Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome. It is a condition that means she does not have a uterus and will not be able to have biological children. This discovery led her to challenge her sense of self and her future dreams. She alienated herself from her friends, boyfriend, hobbies, and from life in general. Until, she met Jax, a transmasculine intersex student who goes to her school.
Fitting In honors moments of humor, vulnerability, and resilience as Lindy began to accept herself for who she is. She redefined her understanding of womanhood and normalcy while finding strength and support in unexpected places. The film celebrates the diversity of all body types and challenges the traditional association of biological markers with gender.
“Drive-Away Dolls” (2024)
Ethan Coen directed the comedy thriller Drive-Away Dolls (2024), with a cast ensemble including Margaret Qualley, Geraldine Viswanathan, Beanie Feldstein, Pedro Pascal, and Matt Damon.
The film talks about the character named Jamie, a carefree woman who is dealing with a recent breakup with her girlfriend. She sought for a change of scenery and excitement, so she spontaneously embarked on a roadtrip with her demure and uptight friend, Marian. Together, they sought for fun and adventure.
Their plans didn’t go their way as they became entangled in a dangerous crime scheme when they accidentally stole a car filled with illegal goods. The story is a blend of the duo’s thrilling misadventures and strengthening their friendship. It also depicts the girls upon learning more about themselves, especially Marian’s initial exploration of lesbianism.
“Love Lies Bleeding” (2024)
Psychological thriller Love Lies Bleeding (2024) depicted the tumultuous relationship of a bodybuilder named Lou, and her obsessive lover Jackie. Kristen Stewart and Katy O’Brian star in the film, which Rose Glass directed.
Lou is dedicated to achieving physical perfection and committed to relentless training and diets to maintain her physique. She met Jackie, and their relationship started off being passionate and supportive, until it became toxic. The latter started to blur the lines between love and control, highlighting a twisted, co-dependent queer love story. Lou and Jackie’s love affair showed that devotion built on obsession is physically, mentally, and emotionally destructive.
The film possessed metaphors which ultimately teach audiences that independence and self-worth are important aspects of love. Boundaries are also important, because they allow individual and collective growth from both parties involved.
“Layla” (2024)
Amrou Al-Kadhi’s Layla (2024) is a thought-provoking drama that centers on the life of Layla, a British-Palestinian teenager, as she navigates her complex identity and the socio-political challenges surrounding her.
Amrou Al-Kadhi is the creative mind behind Layla (2024), a thought-provoking drama about British-Palestinian teenage drag queen Layla. She (Bilal Hasna) becomes Latif by day, the dutiful son to their Palestinian family. The double life she lives brings tension as she is forced to hide a part of who she is.
Variety mentioned Layla delved into themes of identity and belonging, especially the challenges faced by queer individuals. It also spotlights the difficulties a drag queen faces as they search for authenticity amidst cultural and personal conflicts.
Banner photo via X @codymonster91.
