Powerful Stories, Diverse Voices: 15 Must-See LGBTQ+ Films and Series to Celebrate Pride Month

Joanna Marie O. Santos
June 01, 2023


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In recent years, cinema and television have increasingly embraced diverse narrative, showcasing the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. These powerful stories have the ability to educate, inspire, and foster empathy, helping to shape a more inclusive society. As Pride Month is here, it’s time to celebrate the vibrant resilient LGBTQ+ community by delving into the rich tapestry of stories that have been brought to life on the screen! Here are absolute must-sees: 

 

 

 

 

Having been part of a series that celebrates inclusivity and diversity, it’s no surprise that Queen Charlotte makes it to our list. The show, although focusing on the story between Queen Charlotte and King George, features the first LGBTQ+ story within the Bridgerton-verse. The series finally gives in to the onslaught of bemoaning from fans and puts together a lovely and steamy love story between Brimsley and Reynolds.

 

 

 

 

An absolute triumph of a film written and directed by Céline Sciamma, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, is a tender and poignant love story between two women–Marianne, a young painter, and Héloïse, a young woman who has recently left the convent. The movie masterfully portrays an intimate and restrained narrative, exploring themes of desire, longing, and the constraints of societal expectations.

 

 

 

 

Another Filipino drag pageant has been released, and Drag Den Philippines is an electrifying drag competition series hailed as the ultimate competition for Filipinos by Filipinos. Showcasing a captivating array of talented and glamorous Filipino queens, they fearlessly compete for the prestigious title of “Drag Supreme”, headed and judged by the iconic Manila Luzon. The show aims to propel Filipino drag excellence into the spotlight, and bring drag artistry to the global stage.

 

 

 

Offering a fresh and contemporary portrayal of queer experiences, Young Royals follows the story of Prince Wilhelm who is sent to a prestigious boarding school after a scandal. As he navigates the expectations and pressures of his royal status, Wilhelm finds himself drawn to Simon, a talented and openly gay student. The focus of the show is centered around their blossoming relationship, and addresses the intricacies of coming to terms with one’s sexual orientation in a conservative and traditional environment.

 

 

 

Yet another TV series, Apple TV’s hit series Dickinson, makes it to our list. Having gained popularity for its unique and modern take on the life and poetry of Emily Dickinson, the show explores the deep and emotional connection between the poet and her closest confidante Sue Gilbert. While the nature of their relationship is not explicitly defined, it hints at the possibility of a romantic connection, which adds layers of depth into their interactions.

 

 

 

An exciting addition to the popular “RuPaul’s Drag Race” franchise, “Drag Race Philippines” offers a unique and vibrant representation of the Filipino drag scene. A celebration of self-expression, individuality, the art of drag, and Filipino culture, the show features the talents, creativity, and charisma of Filipino drag performers as they compete for the coveted title of the country’s next drag superstar. 

 

 

 

The popular Thai television series 2Gether has garnered a significant following within the LGBTQ+ community with its light-hearted and heartwarming narrative. The show revolves around the story of Tine and Sarawat, two college students who enter into a fake relationship to appease their friends. As they navigate their pretend romance, they develop a genuine connection that transcends the initial charade. The series explores themes of self-acceptance, coming to terms with one’s feelings, and the challenges of navigating relationships.

 

 

 

A heartfelt Filipino film, Die Beautiful, is certainly one movie that addresses the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. The film is centered around Trisha Echevarria, a transgender woman who dreams of being remembered as a beauty queen. The film does a back and forth between Trisha’s past and present, and portrays the nuances of Trisha’s life and challenges faced by transgender individuals in Philippine society. Through humor, tragedy, and moments of joy, the film is a must-see for any fellow member of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. 

 

 

 

Directed by Park Chan-wook, The Handmaiden takes place in 1930s Korea during the Japanese colonial era. The film follows the story of Sook-hee, a young Korean woman who becomes the handmaiden of a Japanese heiress, Lady Hideko. As the movie progresses, the film intricately delves into a web of intrigue, thrill, unexpected connections, challenging preconceived notions of gender, sexuality, and societal roles. 

 

 

 

The hit movie Call Me By Your Name is always a compelling choice to watch during pride month not only for its exquisite cinematography but also for capturing the complexities of the passions, vulnerabilities, and desires of Elio and Oliver. The movie speaks to the universal human experience of longing, heartbreak, and navigating relationships, and invites viewers to reflect on their own personal journeys by embracing one’s true desires. 

 

 

 

Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City’s ballroom culture in the 1980s and 1990s, Pose is a groundbreaking TV series that has made a significant impact on LGBTQ+ representation. Aside from featuring the largest cast of transgender actors, the show explores the intersection of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and sheds light on the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community during such a pivotal era. 

 

 

 

Based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel “The Price of Salt”, the movie “Carol” follows the evolving relationship between Carol Aird, a wealthy and sophisticated woman, and Therese Belivet, a young aspiring photographer. The film beautifully portrays same-sex relationships with sensitivity and depth, challenging traditional narratives and offering a more nuanced portrayal of queer love in the 1950s, a time when these kinds of relationships were highly stigmatized.

 

 

 

Based on the true story of Lili Elbe, The Danish Girl is a captivating film that explores gender identity and self-discovery. The film follows the life of Einer Wegener, who embarks on a journey to finding his true identity. The film beautifully portrays his transition to becoming Lili and explores what it was like to be one of the first known recipients of gender confirmation surgery.

 

 

 

Following the journey of Japanese figure skater Yuuri Katsuki and coach Viktor Nikiforov and their professional mentor-mentee relationship evolving into something much deeper–a beautiful and heartfelt romance amidst the pressures of the competitive world of figure skating. Yuri on Ice is a groundbreaking and beloved anime series that has captivated audiences and inspired many with its compelling representation of LGBTQ+ themes and relationships. 

 

 

 

Set in the 1990s, the movie follows the story of Cameron Post, a teenage girl who is sent to a Christian conversion therapy center after being caught in a same-sex encounter. The movie, although not the happiest, is particularly relevant as it brings attention to the struggles faced by queer youth and the harmful practices that seek to erase their identities. The film serves as a testament to the power of self-acceptance, self-discovery, and the importance of finding a community that embraces and uplifts one’s true identity.

 

By immersing ourselves in these narratives, we not only gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community, but also contribute to the ongoing journey towards equality and acceptance. As we celebrate Pride Month, let us honor and amplify the voices of the LGBTQ+, reminding ourselves of the importance of representation, empathy, and the profound impact that these stories can have on individuals and societies as a whole.