Top 5 LGBTQ+ Movies You Can't Miss (With Honest Reviews!)

Moonlight, Barry Jenkins' 2016 masterpiece, isn't just a film; it's a visceral experience. Told in three luminous chapters, it follows Chiron, a young Black man grappling with his identity, sexuality, and the harsh realities of life in Miami.

Critical darling, award-sweeping phenomenon: Moonlight holds the prestigious title of Best Picture at the 2017 Academy Awards, along with Best Adapted Screenplay and Supporting Actor (Mahershala Ali). It's showered with accolades, including Golden Globes, BAFTAs, and countless critics' awards, solidifying its place in cinematic history.

Emotional symphony in three acts: Dive into the lyrical, evocative chapters of Chiron's life. Little, a bullied child longing for connection, finds solace in Juan, a drug dealer who becomes a complex father figure. Chiron, a sensitive teenager navigating adolescence and his burgeoning sexuality, faces brutal realities. Finally, Black, a hardened adult, confronts his past and seeks a semblance of peace.

Powerful performances leave a lasting impact: Trevante Rhodes, Ashton Sanders, and Mahershala Ali deliver career-defining performances, embodying Chiron's evolving layers with raw vulnerability and captivating intensity. Naomie Harris as Chiron's unstable mother offers another unforgettable portrayal.

Visually stunning, emotionally resonant: Moonlight is a symphony of light and shadow, capturing the beauty and pain of Chiron's journey. Its hauntingly beautiful score and nuanced cinematography weave a spell, leaving you deeply moved long after the credits roll.

Where to watch and dive into the brilliance: Stream Moonlight on Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, or rent/purchase it through iTunes, Google Play, and YouTube.

4. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019): A Forbidden Romance Ignites on a Remote Island

Portrait of a Lady on Fire, Céline Sciamma's 2019 masterpiece, is a love story unlike any other. It smolders with forbidden passion and intellectual fire, set against the breathtaking backdrop of a windswept Breton island in 1770.

Critical darling, award-winning gem: This French period drama swept audiences and critics alike, garnering accolades like the Queer Palm at Cannes and the César Award for Best Film. Its unique storytelling and powerful performances solidified its place as a modern classic.

Forbidden love blooms in isolation: Marianne, a young painter, is hired to secretly capture the portrait of Héloïse, a reluctant bride-to-be. As they spend stolen hours together, a profound connection ignites, defying societal expectations and sparking an intense, passionate bond.

Luminous performances ignite the screen: Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel deliver tour-de-force performances, capturing the depth of Héloïse and Marianne's forbidden love with electrifying chemistry and nuanced emotional range. Their gazes speak volumes, conveying a love that transcends words.

A visual feast for the senses: Sciamma paints the film with breathtaking visuals, utilizing natural light and evocative landscapes to mirror the emotional intensity of the story. The costumes and score further enhance the film's immersive atmosphere, transporting you to the heart of their forbidden romance.

Themes that resonate beyond time: Portrait of a Lady on Fire explores timeless themes of female desire, artistic freedom, and the complexities of love in a restrictive society. It's a story that resonates deeply with audiences of all genders and backgrounds, prompting reflection and discussion long after the credits roll.

Where to witness this cinematic masterpiece: Currently, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is available to stream on Hulu and Criterion Channel, and to rent or purchase through iTunes, Google Play, and Amazon Prime Video.

3. Paris Is Burning (1990): A Groundbreaking Documentary Illuminates NYC's Drag Ball Scene

A raw and intimate look into the African American and Latinx drag ball scene in late 1980s New York City, "Paris Is Burning" is a groundbreaking documentary that shines a light on marginalized communities, voguing, and the quest for self-acceptance.

Award-winning and culturally significant: Released in 1990, the film went on to win the Teddy Jury Award at the Berlin International Film Festival and the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. It's considered a landmark documentary for its unflinching portrayal of LGBTQ+ and minority experiences, and its influence on pop culture and drag ball scene is undeniable.

Vogue. Pose. Slay: Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of drag balls, where voguing takes center stage. Witness the fierce competition, intricate costumes, and electrifying performances as houses like the House of Xtravaganza and the House of LaBeija battle for ballroom supremacy.

More than just voguing: "Paris Is Burning" delves deeper than the dazzling spectacle of the balls. It explores themes of identity, family, racism, homophobia, and the AIDS epidemic, offering a poignant look at the struggles and triumphs of these vibrant communities.

Unforgettable characters steal the show: Get to know the iconic figures who made the film what it is. From the legendary drag queen Pepper LaBeija to the witty and insightful Venus Xtravaganza, each character brings their own unique story and perspective to the screen, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

A must-watch for anyone seeking understanding and inspiration: "Paris Is Burning" is not just a documentary; it's a cultural touchstone. It's a testament to the power of self-expression, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of finding your own chosen family. Whether you're a drag enthusiast or simply looking for a thought-provoking and moving film experience, "Paris Is Burning" is a must-watch.

Where to watch this cultural phenomenon: Stream "Paris Is Burning" on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Criterion Channel, or rent/purchase it through iTunes, Google Play, and YouTube.

2. The Handmaiden (2016): A Twisted Tale of Love, Deceit, and Revenge

Prepare to be swept away by a whirlwind of sensuality, suspense, and social commentary in Park Chan-wook's masterpiece, The Handmaiden (2016). This South Korean gem, based on Sarah Waters' novel Fingersmith, is a genre-bending cocktail of erotic thriller, psychological drama, and historical fiction.

Critical darling, award-winning phenomenon: The Handmaiden wasn't just critically acclaimed; it swept awards season, snagging the BAFTA Award for Best Film Not in the English Language and numerous other accolades. Its bold storytelling, stunning visuals, and unforgettable performances solidified its place in cinematic history.

A web of deceit unfolds in occupied Korea: Set in Japan-occupied Korea during the 1930s, the film follows a conman who hatches a plot to swindle a wealthy heiress with the help of a pickpocket posing as her handmaiden. As their carefully constructed plan unravels, the lines between truth and deception blur, leading to a shocking and exhilarating climax.

Performances that mesmerize: The film boasts powerhouse performances from its entire cast, especially the triple threat of Kim Min-hee, Kim Tae-ri, and Ha Jung-woo. Their electrifying chemistry and nuanced portrayals of their complex characters elevate the film to another level.

Visually stunning, hauntingly beautiful: Park Chan-wook's masterful direction crafts a visually stunning feast for the senses. The opulent costumes, intricate sets, and evocative cinematography create a captivating world that draws you in and never lets go.

More than just a thrilling ride: The Handmaiden is more than just a suspenseful tale; it's a layered exploration of power dynamics, class disparity, and the complexities of female desire. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection and discussion.

Where to watch this cinematic gem: Stream The Handmaiden on Amazon Prime Video, Kanopy (with library card), or rent/purchase it through iTunes, Google Play, and YouTube.

1. Carol (2015): A Luminous Love Story That Defies Time

Carol (2015) isn't just a movie; it's a timeless tapestry of forbidden love, societal constraints, and the unwavering yearning for connection. Set in the opulent yet conservative 1950s New York, the film chronicles the burgeoning romance between two extraordinary women: Carol Aird (Cate Blanchett), a captivating housewife trapped in a loveless marriage, and Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara), a free-spirited aspiring photographer drawn to Carol's alluring grace.

A Critical Darling and Award-Winning Tour de Force: Carol garnered widespread acclaim upon its release, earning six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for both Blanchett and Mara. Its nuanced portrayal of a same-sex relationship in a restrictive era resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its place as a modern classic.

A Slow Burn That Ignites the Screen: The film unfolds with a deliberate pace, mirroring the quiet intensity of Carol and Therese's forbidden love. Every stolen glance, whispered word, and lingering touch speaks volumes, drawing the viewer into their intimate world. Blanchett and Mara deliver Oscar-worthy performances, infusing their characters with vulnerability, longing, and a defiant spark of hope.

Beyond Romance: A Story of Self-Discovery: Carol is more than just a love story; it's a journey of self-discovery for both protagonists. As Therese blossoms under Carol's mentorship, she challenges societal expectations and embraces her own desires. Meanwhile, Carol finds solace and liberation in their forbidden connection, daring to defy the suffocating norms of her gilded cage.

Visually Stunning and Evocative: The film's aesthetic is meticulously crafted, from the lavish costumes and Art Deco sets to the hauntingly beautiful cinematography. Every frame exudes a sense of longing and unspoken emotions, transporting viewers to a bygone era where love dared to challenge societal boundaries.

A Must-Watch for Every Cinephile: Whether you're a fan of period dramas, love stories, or simply powerful storytelling, Carol is a film that deserves to be experienced. Its emotional resonance, masterful performances, and timeless themes make it a cinematic gem that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Where to Watch This Masterpiece: You can currently stream Carol on Hulu, Kanopy (with library card), or rent/purchase it through iTunes, Google Play, and YouTube.