13 Movies That Portrayed Black Lesbian Friendships as Lifelines

Cinema has slowly begun to embrace the nuanced and powerful dynamics of Black lesbian lives, moving beyond tragic tropes to explore deep connections. These films highlight how friendship often serves as a critical survival mechanism and a source of joy for Black queer women. Whether these bonds remain strictly platonic or evolve into romance, the presence of a supportive ally frequently makes the difference between despair and resilience. The following movies showcase stories where friendship acts as an essential anchor in a complex world.

‘The Color Purple’ (1985)

Celie endures years of abuse and isolation until she meets the vibrant and independent Shug Avery. Shug provides Celie with the first genuine affection and validation she has ever known as an adult woman. Their bond transcends simple friendship and becomes a transformative force that helps Celie discover her own self-worth. This connection ultimately gives Celie the courage to stand up to her oppressor and reclaim her life.

‘Pariah’ (2011)

Alike is a Brooklyn teenager navigating her identity as a lesbian while living with conservative parents. Her friendship with the bolder and openly gay Laura serves as her primary outlet for expression and social connection. Laura introduces Alike to the community and provides a safe space away from her tense home environment. The film beautifully illustrates how peer support is vital for young Black queer women finding their voice.

‘The Watermelon Woman’ (1996)

Cheryl is an aspiring filmmaker attempting to uncover the history of a Black actress from the 1930s. Her best friend and business partner Tamara serves as both her biggest supporter and her sharpest critic throughout the creative process. Tamara keeps Cheryl grounded and questions her decisions regarding her interracial relationship. Their dynamic showcases a realistic and humorous depiction of Black lesbian friendship that survives professional and personal challenges.

‘Set It Off’ (1996)

Cleo Sims is a lesbian woman who leads her three best friends into a series of bank robberies to escape poverty. While the film is an action thriller, the loyalty between Cleo and her straight friends Stoney, Frankie, and T.T. is the emotional core. Cleo finds unconditional acceptance and family within this group despite her distinct identity. The film remains a touchstone for its portrayal of ride-or-die female solidarity.

‘Rafiki’ (2018)

Kena and Ziki are the daughters of rival politicians in Nairobi who form a close bond despite societal pressures. Their relationship begins as a joyful friendship that allows them to dream of a life bigger than what their conservative town offers. Even as their connection deepens into romance, the foundation of their bond remains their shared understanding and mutual support. They rely on each other to withstand the hostility of their community.

‘Bessie’ (2015)

This biopic explores the life of legendary blues singer Bessie Smith and her complex relationships. Her mentorship and friendship with Ma Rainey play a pivotal role in her early development as an artist and a queer woman. Ma Rainey teaches Bessie how to navigate the industry and command respect in a world that often disrespects Black women. Their connection highlights the importance of intergenerational guidance and solidarity.

‘Beauty’ (2022)

Beauty is a gifted young singer on the brink of stardom who struggles to maintain her agency within a controlling family and industry. Her relationship with Jasmine acts as her only true sanctuary and connection to her authentic self. Jasmine serves as a grounding presence who reminds Beauty of who she was before the fame and pressure took over. The film depicts their bond as a necessary shelter against an exploitative music business.

‘Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody’ (2022)

This biographical film sheds light on the profound connection between Whitney Houston and her longtime friend and assistant Robyn Crawford. Robyn is portrayed as the steady hand and loyal protector who prioritizes Whitney’s well-being above all else. Their relationship provides Whitney with a rare space of honesty and safety amidst the chaos of global superstardom. The narrative emphasizes how this friendship was a crucial stabilizer in the singer’s tumultuous life.

‘Stud Life’ (2012)

JJ is a Black lesbian photographer whose life revolves around her tight-knit friendship with her gay male best friend Seb. Their relationship is the definition of a lifeline as they work together and navigate the dating scene in London. When JJ falls in love, the shift in her attention tests the stability of their codependent bond. The film celebrates the unique and often overlooked intensity of platonic queer kinship.

‘Stranger Inside’ (2001)

Treasure Lee transfers to a women’s prison to be closer to her estranged mother and must learn the intricate social codes of incarceration. She forms alliances and “family” units with other inmates to survive the brutal environment. These relationships offer protection and a semblance of belonging in a system designed to strip women of their humanity. The film explores how incarcerated women create alternative kinship structures as a means of survival.

‘Daughters of the Dust’ (1991)

Yellow Mary returns to her family’s island home at the turn of the century bringing her companion Trula along with her. Trula stands by Yellow Mary as she faces judgment and scrutiny from her traditional relatives. Their silent solidarity speaks volumes about the strength required to exist as modern women in a changing world. The presence of a supportive partner allows Yellow Mary to confront her past and her family with dignity.

‘Bottoms’ (2023)

PJ and Josie are two unpopular high school students who start a fight club to gain the attention of the cheerleaders they have crushes on. PJ drives the chaotic plan while relying heavily on Josie’s partnership to pull it off. Their friendship endures physical fights, public humiliation, and the unraveling of their own lies. The movie uses comedy to show how their codependence is the only thing getting them through the nightmare of high school.

‘Liz in September’ (2014)

Liz is a woman hiding a terminal illness who spends her time partying with her close circle of friends at a beach resort. The arrival of an outsider challenges the group dynamics but ultimately reinforces the strength of their sisterhood. The women provide a network of care and celebration that allows Liz to face her mortality on her own terms. It is a poignant look at how friendship circles sustain Black and Latina queer women through life’s hardest transitions.

Share your favorite movie about friendship and loyalty in the comments.