The 5 Best LGBTQ Netflix Christmas Movies
Netflix’s selection of LGBTQ and gay Christmas movies is a heartwarming reminder that love and holiday cheer knows no boundaries. This collection brings to the screen a delightful mix of romance, drama, and festive spirit, all while celebrating the diverse stories and experiences within the LGBTQ community. Whether you’re looking for a cozy movie night or a touch of Christmas magic, these films offer something special for everyone, wrapping the viewer in a blanket of inclusivity and joy.
1. ‘Single All The Way’ (2021)
“Single All The Way” is a refreshing take on the classic holiday rom-com, steeped in the joyous spirit of Christmas. The film revolves around Peter, who, dreading the judgment of his family for being perpetually single, convinces his best friend Nick to pose as his boyfriend over the holidays. The movie shines in its portrayal of genuine friendship and the often-complex journey to love. It’s a story filled with humor, heartwarming family dynamics, and the pressures of societal expectations, all set against a festive backdrop.
What makes “Single All The Way” a standout LGBTQ Christmas movie is its ability to blend traditional Christmas warmth with a modern love story. It doesn’t just focus on the romance; it’s also about self-acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself. The film’s charming cast, witty script, and cozy Christmas setting make it a delightful watch, offering a fresh narrative in the holiday movie genre.
2. ‘Let It Snow’ (2019)
“Let It Snow” presents a tapestry of holiday tales, interweaving the lives of several high school students on Christmas Eve. This ensemble film is more than just a teen drama; it’s a heartening exploration of young love, friendship, and the magic of Christmas. One of the film’s standout stories is the tender and budding romance between two teenage girls, capturing the nervous excitement of first love. The inclusivity and representation in this storyline are commendable, making it a significant addition to the genre of holiday films.
Though not exclusively an LGBTQ-focused movie, “Let It Snow” captures the spirit of Christmas in its celebration of diversity and love in all forms. The film’s snowy, small-town setting and the enchanting Christmas Eve backdrop create a perfect scene for the characters’ intertwining stories. Its portrayal of young, diverse relationships, including a heartwarming LGBTQ storyline, makes it an ideal holiday film for a wide audience, embodying the inclusive and joyful spirit of the season.
3. ‘A New York Christmas Wedding’ (2020)
“A New York Christmas Wedding” brings an intriguing twist to the Christmas movie genre with its blend of romance and alternate realities. The story follows Jennifer, who, feeling overwhelmed by her upcoming Christmas wedding, is magically shown what life would have been like if she had followed her feelings for her childhood best friend, Gabrielle. This film uniquely explores themes of love, regret, and the choices that shape our lives, all set against the enchanting backdrop of Christmas in New York.
What elevates this movie as a great LGBTQ Christmas film is its exploration of a same-sex relationship within a typically conventional holiday movie framework. It challenges the norms of the genre by presenting a what-if scenario that is both thought-provoking and heartwarming. The film’s festive ambiance, combined with its message of love and authenticity, makes it a compelling watch for the holiday season, offering a different perspective on the typical Christmas romance.
4. ‘Carol’ (2015)
“Carol” stands out as a masterpiece in the realm of LGBTQ cinema, though not a traditional Christmas movie in the strictest sense. Set in the 1950s, it tells the story of a forbidden romance between Therese, a young photographer, and Carol, an older woman navigating a difficult divorce. The film is a poignant exploration of desire, societal norms, and the pursuit of happiness. The Christmas setting provides a stark contrast to the challenges faced by the characters, adding a layer of poignancy to their story.
The reason “Carol” resonates as a Christmas movie, in spirit, is its atmospheric use of the festive season to heighten the emotions and struggles of its characters. The film’s exquisite cinematography captures the era’s holiday essence, juxtaposed with the characters’ internal turmoil. “Carol” is more than just a holiday film; it’s a powerful narrative about love against the odds, making it an essential watch during the Christmas season for its emotional depth and stunning visual storytelling.
5. ‘I Am Michael’ (2015)
“I Am Michael” presents a more complex and thought-provoking narrative, different from the typical festive movie. Based on a true story, it follows Michael Glatze, a gay activist who renounces his homosexuality after a health scare and becomes a Christian pastor. The film is a deep dive into themes of identity, faith, and the human capacity for change. It challenges viewers to consider the nature of belief and the struggle for self-acceptance.
While “I Am Michael” may not be a Christmas movie in the traditional sense, its themes of introspection and transformation resonate with the spirit of the season. The holiday period is a time for reflection and renewal, making this film a compelling and relevant choice for Christmas viewing. It’s a film that invites discussion and contemplation, offering a nuanced look at a controversial and complex journey, set against the backdrop of a society grappling with issues of sexuality and faith.
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