@portraitofaladyonfiremovie, @grotesquemagazine
June is special for many reasons. Not only does it mark the start of summer, but more importantly, it's Pride Month — a time dedicated to celebrating love that transcends conventional norms. A fantastic way to honor and enjoy Pride Month is by having your very own LGBTQ+ film-fest or binge-watching session. From heartwarming coming-of-age stories to gripping historical dramas, there's plenty of content portraying the diverse experience of queer community. So, without further ado, here are 8 LGBTQ+ films and series that absolutely deserve a place on your Pride Month watchlist.
Heartstopper
Based on the graphic novel of the same name, Heartstopper is a coming-of-age story about two British teenagers: Charlie, a quiet openly gay student, and his classmate Nick, a kind-hearted rugby player. They meet at an all-boys school and quickly become friends, despite their many differences. As their bond grows, Charlie finds himself falling for Nick, but doubts his chances. Well, love has its own surprises! Turns out, Nick is more interested in Charlie than either of them could have imagined. Heartstopper explores themes of love, friendship, self-discovery. The first season is only 8 episodes, so you can easily binge-watch it on Netflix in one sitting. Plus, more episodes are coming out this August!
Heartstopper, See-Saw Films
Rocketman
Rocketman is a look at the life and career of legendary singer Elton John. The musical drama film follows the journey of Reginald Dwight, a talented but shy piano prodigy, as he navigates his way through the music industry. Rocketman explores Elton John's struggles with his identity, personal relationships, and addiction, while also showcasing his immense talent. With breathtaking musical performances of his famous songs, the film brings the excitement of his live shows to the screen.
Rocketman, New Republic Pictures / Marv Films / Rocket Pictures
Portrait of a Lady on Fire
Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a French historical drama about forbidden love and desire. The story revolves around Marianne, a young painter, who is commissioned to secretly create a wedding portrait of Héloïse, a reluctant bride-to-be. Marianne arrives at a remote island where Héloïse resides, and disguises herself as a companion to secretly study her model and paint at night. Day by day two women get closer and develop a strong bond. As they share intimate moments and conversations, Marianne and Héloïse gradually fall in love with each other. The film won the Queer Palm at 2019 Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first film directed by a woman to win the award.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire, Lilies Films / Arte / Hold Up Films
The Andy Warhol Diaries
The Andy Warhol Diaries is a six-part Netflix documentary based on the artist's posthumously published memoirs. The mini-series offer an intimate look into the world of the renowned pop artist and explores his personal relationships with Paramount Communications executive Jon Gould, interior designer Jed Johnson and fellow artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. The documentary incorporates Warhol's own diary entries, brought to life through AI-synchronized voice technology.
Andy Warhol Diaries, Abstract / Dakota Group Ltd / Submarine Delux
Carol
While Carol is set during the Christmas season, the film can be enjoyed any time of the year. And it's especially heartwarming to watch it during Pride Month. Taking place in the 1950s, Carol follows an aspiring young photographer named Therese Belivet and Carol Aird, an older woman going through a challenging divorce. Their paths cross at a department store where Therese is employed as a salesgirl, and Carol is in search of a doll for her daughter. It didn't take long for women to forge a deep connection that eventually blossomed into love with complicated consequences.
Carol, Number 9 Films / Film4 Productions / Killer Films
A Single Man
A Single Man is a period romantic drama film directed by renowned fashion designer Tom Ford. The film is an adaptation of the 1964 novel written by Christopher Isherwood. The story follows George Falconer, a middle-aged college professor who is grieving the loss of his long-time partner Jim. Struggling to cope with his overwhelming sorrow, George contemplates taking his own life. However, on his final day, unexpected encounters with students, colleagues, and his closest friend Charley influence his ultimate choice.
A Single Man, Fade to Black / Artina Films / Depth of Field
Anne+
Anne+ is a Dutch drama series that centers around the romantic journey of Anne, a young lesbian woman in her twenties. When Anne moves into her new place, she runs into her ex-girlfriend Lily, who she broke up with four years ago. Over the weekend, Anne takes a moment to reflect on the relationships she had during her time as a student in Amsterdam. The series explores Anne's love life and showcases how her experiences with different girls have influenced her personal growth. Anne+ spans two seasons and also features a film that continues the storyline.
Anne+ ,Millstreet Films / 3Lab
Strange Way of Life
Premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, Strange Way of Life is a short western drama written and directed by Pedro Almodóvar. Following a 25-year separation, a man named Silva embarks on a horseback journey across the desert to meet his old friend, Sheriff Jake. However, the joyful reunion takes unexpected turn, when the next morning Jake reveals that Silva's purpose for the trip goes beyond reminiscing about their friendship.
Strange Way of Life, El Deseo / Saint Laurent Productions
