Movies That Let Black Queer Characters Be the Comic Relief (and Steal the Show)

From cult classics to modern blockbusters, cinema has long relied on the vibrancy and wit of Black queer characters to energize the screen. These roles often transcend the “sassy best friend” trope to become the heart, soul, and most memorable part of the film. Whether they are driving the plot or simply delivering the best one-liners, these characters demand attention and refuse to be sidelined. The following films feature performances where Black queer identities take center stage in the comedy department.

‘Car Wash’ (1976)

In this disco-era ensemble comedy, Antonio Fargas plays Lindy, a cross-dressing employee who navigates the workplace with unapologetic confidence. Lindy stands out as a revolutionary character for the 1970s, refusing to be the butt of the joke and instead using wit to disarm critics. The character defends his identity against a militant coworker in a scene that balances humor with poignant dignity. Fargas brings a nuanced sensitivity to a role that could have easily been a caricature, making Lindy the film’s most memorable figure.

‘Mannequin’ (1987)

Meshach Taylor steals the show as Hollywood, the flamboyant window dresser who becomes the protagonist’s loyal ally. Hollywood defies the rigid masculinity of the 1980s with extravagant style and a theatrical personality that lights up every scene. His comedic timing and expressive reactions provide the perfect counterbalance to the film’s fantasy romance plot. Taylor’s performance remains a beloved example of queer-coded visibility in mainstream 80s cinema.

‘The Brady Bunch Movie’ (1995)

RuPaul makes an unforgettable cameo as Mrs. Cummings, the guidance counselor to Jan Brady. In just a few minutes of screen time, RuPaul delivers dry, deadpan advice that hilariously clashes with the Brady family’s wholesome naivety. The character’s subtle breaking of the fourth wall acknowledges the absurdity of the 1970s aesthetic in a 90s setting. This role marked a significant crossover moment for drag culture into mainstream family comedy.

‘To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar’ (1995)

Wesley Snipes undergoes a transformative performance as Noxeema Jackson, one-third of a drag queen trio on a road trip across America. Noxeema serves as the pragmatic and sharp-tongued protector of the group, delivering endless quotable wisdom and shade. Snipes balances the physical comedy of the role with genuine warmth, particularly in scenes where he mentors a small-town girl. The film allows Noxeema to be both a comedic force and a fully realized human being.

‘The Fifth Element’ (1997)

Chris Tucker delivers a high-octane performance as Ruby Rhod, a flamboyant intergalactic radio host who gets swept up in a mission to save the world. His rapid-fire dialogue and shrieking reactions provide a sharp comedic contrast to the stoic heroism of the film’s lead. While the character’s gender expression is fluid and eccentric, Ruby Rhod shattered norms in action cinema with an unforgettable wardrobe and attitude. The role cemented Tucker’s status as a comedy superstar and remains one of the most iconic elements of this sci-fi classic.

‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ (1997)

The Lady Chablis, a real-life drag performer, plays herself in this atmospheric Southern mystery, becoming the film’s breakout star. She injects vital energy and humor into the somber courtroom drama, demanding attention every time she appears on screen. Her dialogue is sharp, authentic, and unapologetic, cutting through the pretenses of Savannah’s high society. Chablis proved that she was not just a character in a book, but a screen presence capable of outshining seasoned Hollywood actors.

‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ (1999)

RuPaul appears out of drag as Mike, an “ex-gay” counselor at a conversion therapy camp who attempts to enforce rigid masculinity. The comedy comes from the irony of one of the world’s most famous drag queens teaching boys how to fix cars and act “straight.” His performance is a satirical masterclass, using campy seriousness to highlight the absurdity of the camp’s mission. Mike serves as a hilarious authority figure whose hypocrisy is evident to the audience from the very start.

‘Punks’ (2000)

This cult classic romantic comedy centers on a group of Black gay men in Los Angeles, with the ensemble cast delivering non-stop humor and heart. Rockmond Dunbar and Seth Gilliam shine in roles that explore the complexities of friendship and dating within the community. The film functions like a queer version of ‘Waiting to Exhale’, mixing melodrama with sharp, observational comedy. It remains a rare and celebrated snapshot of Black gay life at the turn of the millennium.

‘Holiday Heart’ (2000)

Ving Rhames gives a surprising and tender performance as Holiday, a drag queen who takes in a drug-addicted mother and her daughter. While the film deals with heavy dramatic themes, Rhames infuses the character with a resilient sense of humor and sass that lightens the tone. Holiday’s lip-sync performances and witty comebacks provide armor against a harsh world. The role showcased Rhames’s impressive range, moving away from his typical tough-guy persona to play a nurturing, funny, and tragic hero.

‘Kinky Boots’ (2005)

Chiwetel Ejiofor stars as Lola, a cabaret performer who helps a struggling shoe factory owner save his business. Lola bursts into the drab factory setting with charisma, teaching the workers about acceptance through song and dance. Ejiofor’s performance is electric, balancing the character’s flamboyant stage persona with quiet moments of vulnerability and wit. Lola acts as the catalyst for change, proving that a little bit of glitter and humor can bridge cultural divides.

‘Rent’ (2005)

Wilson Jermaine Heredia reprises his Broadway role as Angel, a street drummer and drag queen who serves as the emotional glue of the friend group. Angel brings constant light and levity to the story, even while facing a terminal illness. The musical number ‘Today 4 U’ is a high-energy showcase of physical comedy and joy that defines the character’s spirit. Angel’s unwavering optimism and humor provide the necessary relief in a story focused on struggle and survival.

‘The Skinny’ (2012)

Directed by Patrik-Ian Polk, this film follows a group of college friends reuniting in New York City, with the ensemble cast delivering messy, raunchy humor. The characters trade biting insults and engage in chaotic romantic entanglements that drive the comedy. It offers an unfiltered look at the social dynamics of young Black gay men, refusing to sanitize their language or behavior. The humor is specific, cultural, and derived from the chemistry between the lead actors.

‘Pitch Perfect’ (2012)

Ester Dean plays Cynthia Rose, a member of the Barden Bellas who is known for her beatboxing skills and dry humor. Though her screen time is limited, she constantly steals scenes with her deadpan delivery and misunderstanding of social boundaries. Her eventual coming out is treated as a comedic non-event, as the other characters already knew, subverting the dramatic coming-out trope. Dean’s comedic timing makes Cynthia Rose a fan-favorite character in the a cappella franchise.

‘Dear White People’ (2014)

Tyler James Williams plays Lionel Higgins, a shy, gay student journalist who observes the racial tensions on his college campus from the sidelines. Lionel’s humor comes from his awkwardness and his sharp, cynical observations about the chaotic student body. He serves as the audience surrogate, reacting to the absurdity of the campus politics with bewildered silence or mumbling wit. Williams masters the art of understated comedy, making Lionel the most relatable character in the satire.

‘Dope’ (2015)

Kiersey Clemons plays Diggy, a lesbian high schooler and drummer who is unapologetically herself in a tough neighborhood. Her masculine style and cool demeanor provide a grounded comedic contrast to the neurotic energy of the film’s protagonist. Diggy’s humor is subtle, often delivered through a skeptical look or a quick, cutting remark. Clemons creates a character who is effortlessly cool, refusing to let anyone dictate how she should dress or act.

‘Tangerine’ (2015)

Mya Taylor and Kitana Kiki Rodriguez star as Alexandra and Sin-Dee Rella, two transgender sex workers tearing through Los Angeles on Christmas Eve. The film is a high-octane screwball comedy fueled by Sin-Dee’s rampage to find her cheating boyfriend. Their banter is fast, furious, and hilarious, grounding the chaotic plot in a genuine friendship. Despite the gritty subject matter, the duo’s dynamic and dialogue make the film a laugh-out-loud experience.

‘Hurricane Bianca’ (2016)

Shangela plays Stephen, the supportive best friend to the titular character, bringing her signature energy to the screen. As the comedic foil, Stephen helps navigate the absurd revenge plot with enthusiastic support and Southern charm. Shangela’s natural charisma and background in drag performance translate perfectly to the broad comedy of the film. The chemistry between the leads elevates the campy script into a fun celebration of drag culture.

‘Love, Simon’ (2018)

Clark Moore plays Ethan, the openly gay student at Simon’s high school who is confident, stylish, and completely unbothered by bullies. Ethan serves as a foil to the closeted protagonist, showing that being out doesn’t have to be a tragedy. His witty comebacks to the school’s vice principal provide some of the movie’s funniest moments. Moore ensures that Ethan is not just a stereotype, but a character who has mastered the art of survival through humor.

‘Dumplin” (2018)

Harold Perrineau shines as Lee, a drag queen who becomes a mentor to a group of pageant misfits. Lee teaches the girls how to walk, perform, and love themselves, all while delivering stern but loving comedic lectures. Perrineau brings a weary but glamorous gravity to the role, serving as the wise elder of the story. His scenes provide the sparkle and joy that help the protagonist find her confidence.

‘A Star Is Born’ (2018)

Shangela and Willam make memorable appearances as the drag bar emcees who discover Lady Gaga’s character, Ally. Shangela, in particular, acts as a “drag mother” figure, pushing Ally to perform and managing the chaos of the dressing room. The banter is authentic to the drag scene, full of rapid-fire reads and inside jokes. These scenes provide a crucial burst of color and humor before the film descends into its heavier dramatic arc.

‘Booksmart’ (2019)

Austin Crute plays Alan, a drama theater kid who initially seems like a rival to the protagonists but reveals a chaotic, fun-loving side. His performance of “You Oughta Know” at a karaoke party is a comedic highlight of the film, showcasing intense energy and vocal talent. Alan defies the “mean gay” stereotype by ultimately being inclusive and part of the night’s wild adventures. Crute makes the character a scene-stealer with his expressive face and physical comedy.

‘Like a Boss’ (2020)

Billy Porter plays Barrett, a beauty industry employee who refuses to suffer fools gladly. He delivers the film’s most memorable moment with a “tragic” story about being fired that escalates into absurdity. Porter’s delivery is dramatic and hilarious, turning a supporting role into the most talked-about part of the movie. His character serves as a Greek chorus, commenting on the bad decisions of the main characters with brutal honesty.

‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend’ (2020)

Tituss Burgess returns as Titus Andromedon in this interactive movie special, continuing his reign as one of TV and film’s funniest characters. Titus gets his own subplot involving a film shoot, where his diva behavior and lack of self-awareness are on full display. Burgess delivers lines with operatic intensity, turning mundane complaints into musical masterpieces. Titus remains the gold standard for modern Black queer comic relief, mixing narcissism with undeniable lovability.

‘Zola’ (2020)

Colman Domingo plays X, the terrifying yet darkly comedic antagonist of this wild road trip saga. While the character is dangerous, Domingo infuses him with a chaotic, shifting accent and bizarre mood swings that are strangely funny. His unpredictability keeps the audience on edge, laughing nervously at his erratic behavior. It is a masterclass in balancing menace with absurdity, making X an unforgettable villain.

‘Cinderella’ (2021)

Billy Porter reimagines the Fairy Godmother as “Fab G,” a genderless, magical being who helps the protagonist achieve her dreams. Fab G arrives with a fabulous costume and a modern attitude, ditching the old-fashioned rhymes for contemporary wit. Porter brings his fashion icon status to the role, making the magic feel like a runway show. The character injects a much-needed burst of modern energy into the traditional fairy tale structure.

‘The Blackening’ (2022)

Dewayne Perkins, who also co-wrote the film, stars as Dewayne, the gay best friend who refuses to be the first one to die in a horror movie. He actively deconstructs the tropes of the genre, using his knowledge of pop culture to survive. Dewayne is skeptical, sarcastic, and physically capable, flipping the script on the helpless victim stereotype. Perkins makes Dewayne the brain and the funny bone of the film, delivering the sharpest lines while fighting for his life.

‘Bros’ (2022)

Ts Madison plays Angela, a neighbor to the protagonist who has zero patience for his neurotic spiraling. Her scenes are brief but impactful, as she delivers loud, hilarious reality checks from her window. Madison brings her real-life internet persona’s energy to the film, cutting through the main character’s pretension. She represents a different generation and perspective within the LGBTQ+ community, grounding the film’s specific anxieties with broad humor.

‘Bottoms’ (2023)

Ayo Edebiri stars as Josie, a clumsy and anxious lesbian trying to start a fight club to impress cheerleaders. Edebiri’s comedy is physical and awkward, characterized by mumbled lies and panicked reactions. She plays the straight man to her chaotic best friend, but her desperate attempts to look cool provide the biggest laughs. Josie is a refreshing departure from the confident queer trope, representing the messy, confusing reality of high school crushes.

‘Theater Camp’ (2023)

Ayo Edebiri appears again as Janet, a newly hired camp instructor who lied on her resume and knows absolutely nothing about theater. Her attempts to teach the children, including encouraging them to use “cheating” as a stage combat technique, are deadpan gold. Janet’s complete lack of qualification contrasts hilariously with the intense passion of the theater kids and other counselors. It is a quiet, subtle comedic performance that anchors the mockumentary’s absurdity.

‘Mean Girls’ (2024)

Jaquel Spivey steps into the iconic shoes of Damian Hubbard in this musical adaptation of the high school comedy. As one of Cady’s first friends, Damian serves as a witty narrator and moral compass with a flair for the dramatic. His delivery of classic lines, revitalized with musical numbers, steals every scene he enters. Spivey brings a fresh, queer Black identity to the character that modernizes the “too gay to function” trope into something celebratory and hilarious.

Tell us which of these iconic characters made you laugh the hardest in the comments.