20 Must-Watch LGBTQ+ Movies to Celebrate Pride Month

Pride Month is a time to celebrate love, identity, and the stories that shape the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re joining parades or relaxing at home, movies offer a powerful way to connect with these narratives.

From heartfelt dramas to uplifting comedies, these films capture the joy, struggle, and resilience of queer experiences. Here’s a curated list of 20 must-watch LGBTQ+ movies to enjoy this June and beyond.

Moonlight (2016)

This Oscar-winning drama follows Chiron, a young Black man growing up in Miami, as he navigates his identity and sexuality. The story unfolds in three acts—childhood, adolescence, and adulthood—showing his struggles with bullying and family challenges.

Barry Jenkins directs with a tender touch, bringing depth to Chiron’s journey. The film’s emotional weight and stunning visuals make it a standout, earning praise for its authentic portrayal of Black queer life.

Carol (2015)

Set in 1950s New York, ‘Carol’ tells the story of a forbidden romance between Therese, a young photographer, and Carol, an elegant older woman. Their chemistry unfolds against a backdrop of societal constraints.

Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara deliver captivating performances. Directed by Todd Haynes, the film’s lush visuals and slow-burn romance make it a timeless exploration of love and longing.

Brokeback Mountain (2005)

This groundbreaking film follows Ennis and Jack, two cowboys who fall in love in 1960s Wyoming. Their secret affair spans years, marked by passion and heartbreak amid a world that rejects them.

Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal bring raw emotion to the roles. Ang Lee’s direction creates a poignant tale that redefined queer storytelling in mainstream cinema.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

In 18th-century France, artist Marianne is hired to paint Héloïse, a woman set for an arranged marriage. Their bond grows into a passionate, forbidden love story.

Céline Sciamma crafts a visually stunning film with Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel shining as the leads. The movie’s quiet intensity and focus on female desire make it unforgettable.

The Handmaiden (2016)

This South Korean thriller follows a young woman hired as a handmaiden to a wealthy heiress, only to get entangled in a complex con and a steamy romance. The plot twists keep you guessing.

Park Chan-wook’s bold direction blends suspense with sensuality. Kim Min-hee and Kim Tae-ri’s chemistry elevates this tale of deception and love.

God’s Own Country (2017)

Johnny, a young farmer in rural England, lives a lonely life until he meets Gheorghe, a Romanian migrant worker. Their relationship transforms Johnny’s world, offering hope and connection.

Francis Lee directs with raw honesty, and Josh O’Connor and Alec Secareanu deliver heartfelt performances. The film’s gritty yet tender tone makes it a modern classic.

Tangerine (2015)

Shot on iPhones, this vibrant film follows Sin-Dee, a transgender sex worker, as she searches for her cheating boyfriend in Los Angeles. Her friendship with Alexandra drives the story.

Sean Baker’s direction captures the energy of the city’s streets. Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor bring humor and heart to this groundbreaking indie.

Paris Is Burning (1990)

This iconic documentary dives into New York’s 1980s ballroom scene, spotlighting Black and Latinx queer and trans communities. It explores voguing, chosen families, and resilience amid hardship.

Jennie Livingston’s film is a cultural touchstone, blending joy and grit. Its influence on drag culture and queer visibility remains profound.

Love, Simon (2018)

Simon, a high school senior, navigates his secret crush on an anonymous classmate while keeping his sexuality hidden. This rom-com captures the thrill and fear of coming out.

Nick Robinson shines as Simon, with Greg Berlanti directing a heartfelt story. The film’s light tone and universal themes make it a crowd-pleaser.

Fire Island (2022)

Inspired by ‘Pride and Prejudice,’ this comedy follows a group of queer friends on their annual trip to Fire Island. Romance and class tensions spark plenty of laughs.

Joel Kim Booster and Bowen Yang lead a charming cast. Andrew Ahn’s direction infuses the film with wit and warmth, perfect for a fun Pride watch.

Pariah (2011)

Alike, a 17-year-old Black lesbian in Brooklyn, explores her identity while facing rejection from her family. Her journey of self-discovery is both painful and empowering.

Dee Rees directs with raw emotion, and Adepero Oduye’s performance is captivating. The film’s honest look at coming out resonates deeply.

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)

Three drag performers—Mitzi, Felicia, and Bernadette—travel across the Australian outback in a bus named Priscilla. Their journey is filled with humor, heart, and fabulous costumes.

Stephan Elliott’s film stars Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce, and Terence Stamp. Its campy charm and message of self-acceptance make it a queer classic.

All About My Mother (1999)

After losing her son, Manuela travels to Barcelona to reconnect with his trans father, Lola. This Pedro Almodóvar film weaves family, identity, and love into a vibrant drama.

Cecilia Roth leads a colorful cast. The film’s bold visuals and emotional depth showcase Almodóvar’s unique storytelling style.

The Kids Are All Right (2010)

Jules and Nic, a lesbian couple, face family drama when their kids seek out their sperm donor. The arrival of Paul shakes up their dynamic in unexpected ways.

Julianne Moore, Annette Bening, and Mark Ruffalo deliver strong performances. Lisa Cholodenko’s film blends humor and heart in its look at modern families.

Pride (2014)

Based on a true story, this film follows LGBTQ+ activists in 1980s London who support striking miners. Their unlikely alliance builds bridges and sparks change.

Bill Nighy and Imelda Staunton lead a stellar cast. Matthew Warchus directs a feel-good story about solidarity and community.

A Fantastic Woman (2017)

Marina, a trans woman in Chile, faces discrimination after her partner’s sudden death. Her fight to maintain her dignity is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Daniela Vega delivers a powerful performance. Sebastián Lelio’s direction earned the film an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, highlighting its global impact.

Call Me by Your Name (2017)

In 1980s Italy, 17-year-old Elio falls for Oliver, his father’s graduate student. Their summer romance is tender, passionate, and ultimately bittersweet.

Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer shine under Luca Guadagnino’s direction. The film’s lush setting and emotional depth make it a modern favorite.

The Normal Heart (2014)

Set during the 1980s AIDS crisis in New York, this drama follows activist Ned Weeks as he fights for awareness and survival. It’s a raw look at a devastating time.

Mark Ruffalo leads a powerful cast, with Ryan Murphy directing. The film’s urgency and emotional weight honor the real-life struggle it depicts.

Happiest Season (2020)

Abby plans to propose to her girlfriend Harper during a holiday visit, but learns Harper hasn’t come out to her conservative family. The result is a mix of comedy and drama.

Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis star in Clea DuVall’s charming film. It’s a rare LGBTQ+ holiday rom-com that balances laughs and heart.

Bottoms (2023)

Two unpopular queer high school girls, PJ and Josie, start a fight club to meet girls. The chaotic comedy delivers laughs and a fresh take on teen friendships.

Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri are hilarious under Emma Seligman’s direction. The film’s bold humor and queer joy make it a standout.