Looking for some fabulous LGBTQ+ movies to binge-watch on Netflix? Look no further! We’ve curated a collection of the most captivating and entertaining gay and lesbian films currently available for streaming. Get ready to embark on a cinematic journey from the comfort of your own home, whether you prefer your TV or laptop as your viewing companion.
Netflix boasts an impressive selection of LGBTQ+ films, but let us do the hard work for you! Our handpicked list features the crème de la crème, the highest-rated and most recommended movies in this genre.
So, get ready to embark on an exciting adventure through the vibrant world of LGBTQ+ cinema on Netflix. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in these extraordinary films that celebrate love, individuality, and the sheer beauty of diversity.
(Note: Brace yourself for some lively discussions surrounding the movie “Hurricane Bianca: From Russia With Hate”.)
1. Handsome Devil
Handsome Devil is a gripping Irish drama film from 2016, skillfully directed by John Butler. It tells the tale of two completely different individuals who form an unlikely bond within the confines of a boarding school obsessed with rugby. One is a loner, while the other is the school’s star athlete. Their friendship is put to the test when the authorities take notice.
Directed by: John Butler
Actors: Nicholas Galitzine, Fionn O’Shea
2. Holding the Man
Holding the Man is a romantic drama film from Australia, released in 2015. It was directed by Neil Armfield and is actually based on Timothy Conigrave’s memoir that goes by the same name, published in 1995.
Released: 2015
Directed by: Neil Armfield
Actors: Ryan Corr Craig Stott
3. Alex Strangelove
So, there’s this high school senior, right? He’s got a plan to finally lose his virginity to his girlfriend. Sounds pretty straightforward, huh? Well, hang on tight, because things are about to get a tad complicated.
See, our protagonist happens to stumble upon a charming and good-looking gay kid from across town. Little does he know, this encounter is about to take him on a wild ride of self-discovery when it comes to his own sexuality. Brace yourself for a roller-coaster journey of sexual identity that’s about to unfold.
Released: 2018
Directed by: Craig Johnson
Actors: Daniel Doheny, Madeline Weinstein, Antonio Marziale
4. A Single Man
George, played by Colin Firth, is a college professor. He’s been going through a really tough time lately, having lost his lover, Jim, in a car accident. It has hit him hard, and he’s feeling an overwhelming sense of grief. In fact, he’s even considering ending his own life.
As George tries to cope with his pain, he goes about his daily routine and takes care of some important matters. Along the way, he interacts with his colleagues, students, and an old friend, played by Julianne Moore. These encounters have a profound impact on him and ultimately force him to make a tough decision. He has to decide if life is still worth living without Jim by his side.
It’s a heavy and emotional journey for George, one that explores the depths of his sorrow and his search for meaning. Will he find a reason to continue on, or will he choose to end his own suffering? The film delves into these difficult questions and presents a poignant exploration of life, loss, and the human spirit.
Released: 2009
Directed by: Tom Ford
Actors: Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, Nicholas Hoult
5. Moonlight
Moonlight is a powerful drama that breaks free from traditional genres and tells its story in three acts. The movie takes us through the life of Chiron, portrayed by Alex Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, and Trevante Rhodes at different stages. Set in the tough streets of Miami, we witness young Chiron trying to navigate a difficult home life while also grappling with his own sexuality. Naomi Harris delivers a captivating performance as his drug-addicted mother, and Mahershala Ali shines as the caring drug dealer who becomes a father figure to him. This incredible film, which won an Oscar, delves into themes of identity, masculinity, and love with a delicate touch and engaging storytelling.
Released: 2016
Directed by: Barry Jenkins
Actors: Mahershala Ali, Alex R. Hibbert, Ashton Sanders
6. Three Generations
3 Generations is a drama film released in 2015. It’s directed by Gaby Dellal and written by Nikole Beckwith and Dellal herself. The story revolves around Ray, a teenager who bravely embarks on a journey of self-discovery to embrace his true identity as a male. As Ray undergoes this transformation, his mother Maggie, his lesbian grandmother Dolly, and his absent father Craig are faced with the challenge of accepting and supporting him for who he truly is.
Released: 2015
Directed by: Gaby Dellal
Actors: Elle Fanning, Naomi Watts, Susan Sarandon
7. Loev
Loev is an Indian romantic drama film from 2015, written and directed by Sudhanshu Saria. It tells the story of two friends who embark on a weekend trip to the Western Ghats.
Released: May 1, 2017
Directed by: Sudhanshu Saria
Actors: Dhruv Ganesh, Shiv Panditt, Siddharth Menon
8. To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar
In the film To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar, we get to follow the journey of three drag queens – Vida Boheme (Patrick Swayze), Noxeema Jackson (Wesley Snipes), and Chi-Chi Rodriguez (John Leguizamo). They go on this road trip all the way to Los Angeles for a national drag queen competition. But, as luck would have it, their car breaks down in a small midwestern town. And that’s where things get interesting! They end up touching lives and challenging societal norms in this quirky and heartwarming comedy-drama. It even got nominated for two Golden Globe awards, which is pretty cool. The movie was directed by Beeban Kidron and it’s a delightful mix of humor, drama, and societal commentary, all seen through the eyes of these unique characters.
Released: 1995
Directed by: Beeban Kidron
Actors: Wesley Snipes, Patrick Swayze, John Leguizamo
9. Dallas Buyers Club
In the captivating drama Dallas Buyers Club, we are taken on a journey through the life of Ron Woodroof (played by Matthew McConaughey), a Texan who lives life to the fullest but is dealt a devastating blow when he is diagnosed with HIV. Faced with opposition from the medical establishment, he takes matters into his own hands by setting up an operation to smuggle unapproved treatments into the United States. Joining forces with him is Rayon (portrayed by Jared Leto), a transgender woman who is also fighting the disease. Together, they employ unconventional methods and unwavering determination, offering a glimmer of hope to those who have been overlooked. This award-winning film, which earned Oscars for both McConaughey and Leto, delivers a raw and powerful depiction of courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
Released: 2013
Directed by: Jean-Marc Vallée
Actors: Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Jared Leto
10. The Death and Life of Marsha P Johnson
The Death and Life of Marsha P Johnson is a documentary film from 2017, directed by David France. It takes a deep dive into the enigmatic passing of Marsha P. Johnson, a black transgender activist and Stonewall veteran, who tragically died in 1992. This captivating documentary unveils never-before-seen footage and rediscovered interviews, as it endeavors to uncover the truth surrounding her death.
Released: 2017
Directed by: David France
Actors: Victoria Cruz, Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera