20 Films Where Lesbian Characters Get Happy Endings

For decades cinema frequently relied on tragic tropes when depicting queer women. Audiences often witnessed characters facing separation or demise rather than joyous resolutions. Modern filmmakers have shifted this narrative to provide well-deserved romance and stability. These twenty films showcase stories where lesbian characters find love and happiness.

‘The Handmaiden’ (2016)

A Korean con man plots to defraud a Japanese heiress by employing a pickpocket as her handmaiden. The plan goes awry when the two women develop intense feelings for one another. They conspire together to turn the tables on the men who seek to control them. This visually stunning thriller combines romance with intricate plot twists.

‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ (1999)

Megan is a high school cheerleader who is sent to a conversion therapy camp by her concerned parents. She meets a rebellious girl named Graham and begins to accept her true identity. The satirical comedy mocks gender roles while delivering a sweet romantic arc. The vibrant visuals complement the heartwarming journey of self-discovery.

‘Carol’ (2015)

Therese Belivet spots the elegant Carol Aird in a Manhattan department store during the Christmas season. Their immediate connection leads to a road trip that challenges societal norms of the 1950s. The film navigates the complexities of custody battles and hidden desires. The final shot affirms their bond with a look of hope and possibility.

‘Imagine Me & You’ (2005)

Rachel prepares to marry her longtime boyfriend Heck but notices the florist Luce at the wedding. She struggles with her growing attraction to the charming newcomer. The film follows the classic romantic comedy formula with a queer twist. Friendship and love triumph as Rachel makes a bold choice for her happiness.

‘Bound’ (1996)

Violet wants to escape her relationship with a money launderer for the mob. She meets Corky and the two hatch a plan to steal two million dollars. The neo-noir thriller builds tension as their scheme faces dangerous obstacles. Their partnership proves resilient against the violent criminal underworld.

‘Desert Hearts’ (1985)

Professor Vivian Bell travels to Reno for a divorce and stays at a ranch. She meets the free-spirited Cay Rivvers and experiences a profound awakening. This film is historically significant for presenting a positive lesbian romance in a 1950s setting. The characters drive off together into an open future.

‘Saving Face’ (2004)

Wil is a surgeon in Manhattan who tries to balance her career and her traditional Chinese mother. Her life becomes complicated when her mother moves in and Wil falls for a dancer. The story explores cultural expectations and the courage required to live authentically. Mother and daughter eventually find their own paths to love.

‘D.E.B.S.’ (2004)

A secret academy trains teenage girls to become elite spies. Top student Amy Bradshaw encounters the villainous Lucy Diamond and discovers she is not evil. The action comedy parodies spy genres while focusing on the romance between the hero and the villain. Love conquers all as they drive off into the sunset.

‘Happiest Season’ (2020)

Abby plans to propose to her girlfriend Harper during a family holiday gathering. She discovers that Harper has not yet come out to her conservative parents. The couple navigates secrets and family drama throughout the chaotic week. They eventually reconcile and find acceptance from the family.

‘The Prom’ (2020)

Emma Nolan wants to take her girlfriend to the high school prom but faces a ban from the PTA. A group of Broadway stars descends on the town to champion her cause. The musical celebrates inclusion and the power of standing up for oneself. The finale features a joyous dance where everyone celebrates love.

‘Summerland’ (2020)

Alice is a reclusive writer living in a seaside cottage during World War II. She reluctantly takes in a young evacuee named Frank who opens her heart. The narrative weaves in Alice’s past romance with a woman named Vera. The ending provides a touching reunion that spans generations.

‘Kajillionaire’ (2020)

Old Dolio has been raised by con artists to live life as a continuous scam. Her world shifts when her parents invite a stranger to join their next scheme. She experiences genuine intimacy and care for the first time with the newcomer. The conclusion sees her breaking free from her toxic family to start a new life.

‘I Can’t Think Straight’ (2008)

Tala prepares for an elaborate wedding in Jordan while Leyla focuses on her career in London. The two women meet and feel an instant spark that disrupts their plans. They must navigate cultural and religious pressures to be together. The film ends with them choosing each other over societal expectations.

‘Below Her Mouth’ (2016)

Dallas works as a roofer and meets a fashion editor named Jasmine on a night out. Their chemistry is immediate and leads to a passionate affair. Jasmine questions her engagement to her fiancé as her feelings deepen. The story focuses heavily on their physical and emotional connection.

‘Better Than Chocolate’ (1999)

Maggie moves into a new loft and falls for another woman named Kim. Her mother and brother arrive unexpectedly and force her to hide her lifestyle. The film tackles issues of censorship and family acceptance with humor. Everything resolves with the characters embracing their truth.

‘The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love’ (1995)

Randy is a tomboy from a working-class background who falls for the popular Evie. Their different social standings create friction and misunderstanding. The coming-of-age story captures the intensity of first love. They drive away together to face the world on their own terms.

‘Show Me Love’ (1998)

Agnes is an outcast who secretly loves the popular girl Elin in their small Swedish town. Elin feels trapped by her reputation and longs for something more. The two form an unexpected bond that challenges the social hierarchy. The final scene shows them revealing their relationship proudly.

‘Crush’ (2022)

Paige joins the track team to get close to her longtime crush but bonds with her teammate AJ instead. She navigates the confusion of high school romance and artistic ambition. The lighthearted teen comedy avoids heavy angst in favor of sweet moments. Paige and AJ share a happy conclusion at the school dance.

‘Cloudburst’ (2011)

Stella and Dotty escape a nursing home to drive to Canada for a marriage license. They pick up a young hitchhiker who helps them on their journey. The road trip film balances humor with the realities of aging. The couple succeeds in their mission to stay together.

‘Go Fish’ (1994)

Max is a young woman looking for love in the Chicago lesbian community. Her friends try to set her up with the shy Ely. The experimental narrative uses black and white cinematography to depict their daily lives. The film concludes with the beginning of a promising relationship.

Please share your favorite feel-good queer movie in the comments.