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Look, we all have that one movie that made us feel seen for the first time. Whether it’s a messy rom-com or a total tear-jerker that destroyed your weekend, LGBTQ+ cinema has been giving us everything lately. I spent way too long debating these rankings with my group chat, so here is the ultimate, non-negotiable list of the 35 best queer films ever made. Grab your popcorn, because we are going on an emotional rollercoaster.
1. Moonlight: A literal work of art
Okay, so starting with Moonlight is basically mandatory. It won Best Picture for a reason, okay? Barry Jenkins delivered something so intimate and beautiful that I still think about it at 3 AM. The way the colors pop, the silence, the absolute tension—it’s iconic. If you haven’t seen it, stop what you’re doing and go watch it on Max right now. No cap, it’s a 98% on Rotten Tomatoes for a reason.
2. Bottoms: The chaotic masterpiece we deserved
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Can we talk about how Bottoms is the funniest movie of the decade? It’s absurd, it’s camp, and it’s lowkey the best teen comedy since Mean Girls. Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri are a comedic duo that I would die for. It’s streaming on Prime Video and honestly, it’s such a vibe. Who knew a fight club movie could be this gay and this hilarious?
3. Brokeback Mountain: The ultimate heartbreaker
I don’t think I’ve recovered from this movie since 2005. Seriously, Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal? Iconic. It’s the definition of a slow burn that ruins your entire life. Even twenty years later, the cultural impact is massive. It’s a classic for a reason, but keep your tissues nearby because you will be sobbing. It’s currently on Netflix and still hits just as hard as the first time.
4. Call Me by Your Name: Peach scene and all
Look, we all know the peach scene. We don’t talk about it, but we know it. This movie is just pure summer aesthetic—the Italian sun, the music, the longing looks. It’s a total mood. Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer definitely set a high bar for queer cinema vibes. If you’re looking to romanticize your life while feeling slightly sad, this is the one.
5. Portrait of a Lady on Fire: Pure longing
This movie is basically a painting come to life. The tension between the two leads is so thick you could cut it with a knife. It’s French, it’s gorgeous, and it’s absolutely heartbreaking. If you love slow-burn romances that make you want to stare out a window dramatically, this is for you. It’s sitting at a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes because it’s just that good.
6. Tangerine: Shot on an iPhone and still slaying
The fact that this movie was shot entirely on an iPhone is still mind-blowing. It’s fast-paced, funny, and raw. It follows two trans women on an absolute odyssey through Los Angeles on Christmas Eve, and it’s honestly legendary. It’s such a refreshing take on the genre and deserves way more hype than it gets. Go watch it if you want something that feels real and unfiltered.
7. Carol: Cate Blanchett is everything
Cate Blanchett in a 1950s coat? Say less. The fashion alone in this movie is enough to make it a top 10 contender. It’s sophisticated, elegant, and the chemistry between Cate and Rooney Mara is just top-tier. It’s one of those movies that you can rewatch a million times and still find something new to love. Total classic.
8. But I’m a Cheerleader: The campiest cult classic
If you don’t love this movie, I don’t know what to tell you. It’s neon, it’s camp, it’s Clea DuVall and Natasha Lyonne being absolute icons. It’s satire at its finest and honestly, it’s just so much fun. It’s the kind of movie you put on during a sleepover with your best friends. Pure, unadulterated joy in every frame.
9. All of Us Strangers: I’m still not over it
This movie destroyed me. Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal are acting for their lives here. It’s supernatural, it’s deeply sad, and it’s incredibly beautiful. I haven’t been able to listen to Frankie Goes to Hollywood the same way since seeing this. If you want to have a good cry and think about your life choices, this is the one to pick.
10. Love, Simon: The OG mainstream rom-com
We have to give credit where it’s due—this movie made queer rom-coms feel mainstream again. It’s sweet, it’s nostalgic, and that Ferris wheel scene? Iconic. It’s the perfect comfort watch for when you just want something light and happy. Plus, the soundtrack is a total bop. It’s the ultimate ‘feel-good’ movie that we all needed.
FAQs
What is the best LGBTQ+ movie on Netflix right now?
Honestly, ‘Brokeback Mountain’ is a classic staple on Netflix, but don’t sleep on ‘The Half of It’ if you want something super cute, teen-focused, and incredibly heartwarming for a casual movie night.
Are there any good queer comedies?
Yes! ‘Bottoms’ is the current gold standard for chaotic queer comedy. If you want something a bit older but equally campy, ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ is a must-watch cult classic that never gets old.
Why are these movies considered the best?
It’s all about the storytelling and cultural impact. These films didn’t just win awards; they changed how queer stories are told in Hollywood, moving from side-character tropes to complex, main-character arcs that feel real.
Okay, so there you have it—the ultimate list of queer cinema that you need to watch immediately. Whether you’re in the mood to sob your heart out or just want a good laugh, these movies have you covered. Did your favorite make the list? Did I miss something huge? Tell me in the comments, because I am dying to hear your hot takes!
