Dive into this cinematic celebration of drama, joy, and a whole lot of pride with the best LGBT films!
Welcome to a dazzling journey through the technicolour world of LGBT+ cinema, where love knows no bounds, and every story reveals a new side to what it means to be ‘queer’. Whether you’re in the mood for a tear-jerking romance, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or a fierce tale of self-discovery, we’ve got you covered.
Grab your popcorn and spill the tea on the best LGBT+ movies of all time, serving up a glittering array of films that have not only entertained but also broken barriers and warmed hearts!
Brokeback Mountain, 2005
Get your tissues ready because this is a tearjerker. One of the most iconic and beloved LGBT+ movies of all time, Brokeback Mountain stars Heather Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal as rustic cowboys in 1960s Wyoming struggling with their burgeoning romance, leading to pain, lust, and so much heartbreak. Adapted from 1997 Annie Proulx short story by director Ang Lee (Life of Pie, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon), this 2005 modern western classic was nominated and won several Academy Awards, becoming the first LGBT-themed film to be nominated for Best Picture!
Streaming now on Paramount+
Call Me By Your Name, 2017
Call Me By Your Name confirms that nothing is more romantic than summer love in the Italian countryside. Set against the idyllic backdrop of 1980s Italy, Call Me By Your Name follows the poignant and beautifully crafted gay romance between Elio and Oliver. Director Luca Guadagnino authentically captures the intensity of first love through standout performances by Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer. Its delicate exploration of self-discovery, longing, and the bittersweet nature of fleeting moments, easily makes this one of the best LGBT+ movies of all time.
Streaming now on Netflix.
Carol, 2015
Elegant and nuanced, romantic-drama Carol has been celebrated as one of the best modern LGBT+ movies. Set in 1950s America, Carol follows the love affair between young photographer Therese and Carol, an older woman in the midst of a divorce, at a time when such relationships were heavily stigmatized. With an all-star performance from Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, explore love and identity in a repressive society with this standout of LGBT+ cinema.
Streaming now on Binge.
Love, Simon, 2018
For those after a teen romcom that the whole family can enjoy, we know you’ll fall for Love, Simon. This groundbreaking coming-of-age LGBT+ film tells the tale of Simon Spier, a high schooler navigating coming out to his friend and family while dealing with threats to reveal his sexuality. With a charming performance by Nick Robinson, audiences fell in love with this heartfelt portrayal of a gay teenager’s journey to self-acceptance, becoming a mainstream hit and positive step for LGBT+ visibility.
Streaming now on Disney+
Milk, 2008
One of the most powerful biographical LGBT+ films, Milk details the life and times of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California. The film chronicles the life of Milk as a trailblazing San Francisco politician and icon of the 70s gay rights movement, with an Oscar-winning performance from Sean Penn. Milk is not only a tribute to a pioneering figure but also a reminder of the ongoing fight for LGBT+ rights, making it a significant and moving piece of cinema.
Streaming now on Paramount+
Moonlight, 2016
Heralded as one of the best LGBT+ films of all time, winning the Academy Award for Best Picture, Moonlight is a landmark in cinematic history. Follow the journey of Chiron, a young black man growing up in a rough Miami neighbourhood and his journey of self-discovery. Evocative storytelling, stunning cinematography, and a moving score blend together to create profound and lyrical exploration of masculinity and sexuality that breaks stereotypes and captures the universal search for connection and understanding.
Streaming now on Stan
Rocky Horror Picture Show, 1975
Shiver with anticipation at this outrageous and subversive film icon! The Rocky Horror Picture Show has delighted audiences with its absurd blend of horror, comedy, and musical theatre for generations. Tim Curry’s iconic performance as flamboyant scientist Frank-N-Furter, along with the film’s memorable songs, eccentric characters, and themes of sexual liberation have cemented its status as a phenomenon within the LGBT+ community. The best way to watch today is an interactive midnight screening, where audiences dress up and sing along to this camp classic!
Streaming now on Disney+
Paris is Burning, 1990
For those after a taste of non-fiction, head on down to the ballrooms of Paris is Burning. One of the most well-known LGBT+ documentaries, the film explores New York City’s drag ball culture in the late 1980s, shining a spotlight on the lives of African American and Latino LGBTQ individuals who brough to life the vibrant world of drag balls. Through candid interviews and dynamic footage of the balls, Paris is Burning has solidified its status as a seminal work in LGBT+ cinema
The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, 1994
Australia has also left its mark on queer cinema with the outrageous Priscilla Queen of the Desert. This road trip comedy follows three drag queens – Tick, Bernadette, and Adam – crossing the outback in a lavender bus named Priscilla. With fabulous costumes, catchy tunes, and a hilarious yet heartfelt narrative, the film brilliantly navigates themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of found family. It’s no wonder Priscilla is hailed as the quintessential iconic Australian LGBT+ film!
Streaming now on Amazon Prime Video, Stan.
The Favourite, 2018
Enter the world of power, desire, and manipulation with The Favourite. Travel back in time to the 18th century English court and witness the vicious fight between Sarah and Abigail over the love of Queen Anne with delicious intrigue. Olivia Colman, Rachel Weisz, and Emma Stone deliver captivating performances that navigate the complexities of love and ambition with dark humour and depth. The film’s exploration of queer relationships in Victorian England, coupled with its sumptuous cinematography and sharp screenplay, elevates The Favourite to a masterpiece.
Streaming now on Disney+
All of Us Strangers, 2023
All of Us Strangers is a hidden gem of modern LGBT+ cinema. Released in 2023 and directed by the Andrew Haigh, this British LGBT+ film is a beautiful yet haunting look at the toll a lost love can have on us. Featuring the incredible talents of Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal, this movie is sure to tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling a little empty long after the credits roll. An unassuming and delicate tour de force!
Streaming now on Disney+
A Single Man, 2009
An adaptation of Christopher Isherwood’s novel of the same name, A Single Man is a beautifully crafted tale of love, loss, and relearning the joys of life. The film follows Colin Firth in a mesmerizing performance as George Falconer, a gay British professor grappling with the loss of his partner in 1960s Los Angeles. As the directorial debut of famed fashion designer Tom Ford, you can expect meticulous attention to detail, from its elegant cinematography to its evocative score, creating an experience that captures an emotional depth and artistic excellence make A Single Man a standout in LGBT+ cinema.
Challengers, 2024
Equal parts nail-biting and titillating, Challengers is one of the best sensual LGBT+ movies in recent years. Another masterpiece from director Luca Guadagnino, this is a sizzling love triangle set against the high-stakes world of professional tennis. Tashi Duncan (Zendaya) is a former tennis prodigy turned coach, navigating the complexities of her relationships with her husband Art (Mike Faist) and his former best friend Patrick (Josh O’Connor). As tensions rise both on and off the court, the trio faces intense competition, emotional conflicts, and unexpected twists. With electrifying performances and a captivating storyline, Challengers promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.
Fire Island, 2022
Taking a page or two from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Fire Island is a hilarious LGBT+ rom-com that should not be missed. Starring Joel Kim Booster and Bowen Yang, the film follows two best friends and their eclectic group as they embark on their annual summer getaway to the iconic Fire Island. As they navigate love and friendship amidst the picturesque party scene, you’ll be swept away by the fun and heartwarming moments. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey!
Streaming now on Disney+
The Handmaiden, 2016
South Korea cinema has exploded in popularity in recent years, yet few films can match the sizzling sexuality of The Handmaiden. Released in 2016 and directed by Park Chan-wook, this visually stunning thriller takes us back to 1930s Korea during the Japanese occupation, as we follow a young handmaiden trying to steal from a wealthy Japanese heiress. That is only the surface, however, as the film slowly reveals an intricate plot of betrayals, family secrets, and a sizzling lesbian romance. Paired with its breathtaking cinematography, and intense performances, The Handmaiden is a masterful blend of suspense, romance, and drama.
For more LGBT+ recommendations, check out our guide to the Top 10 Best LGBT+ TV Shows to Stream on Netflix Australia. Or if you’re craving some life entertainment, glam up your night with the 14 Best Drag Queen Shows and Drag Clubs in Australia.
