It might have taken a while, but TV is getting better at depicting varied life experiences from the queer spectrum. Producers and directors are working hard to undermine stereotypes and get the representation right.
While there might be more work to be done, we must acknowledge those that broke the doors to Hollywood and created opportunities, both off and on the screen.
In the last 20 years, we’ve watched the entertainment industry take bolder steps in telling LGBTQ stories. Queer representation has gone from the sassy gay friend to real-life coming-of-age stories.
Are you looking for groundbreaking classics from the 90s or a TV series from the last decade with realistic LGBTQ themes? Well, here is a list of treats that everyone deserves.
1. Call Me By Your Name (2017)
This movie is based on ‘Chalamet is Elio,’ a novel by Andre Aciman. This sensational movie has been nominated for two BAFTAs, three Golden Globes, and two Academy Awards.
In the summer of 1983, Elio, 17, meets Oliver, 24, a hot graduate interning for his dad. Elio is a musician and introspective bibliophile, while Oliver seems confident and carefree.
Although Elio opts to spend time with his childhood friends, Marzia and Chiara, he becomes jealous after finding out Oliver is interested in Chiara.
As the two continue to hang out more, Elio becomes more attracted to Oliver, and he confesses his feelings. They make out in secret and end up having sex a few days later.
Elio is heartbroken by Oliver’s departure and is still confused by his newfound sexuality. However, Oliver is getting married to his long-term girlfriend back home.
Call Me By Your Name is a great watch for those still struggling with their sexuality.
2. Queer as Folk (2000 – 2005)
As a series that premiered in 2000, Queer as Folk was a groundbreaking show targeted at gay audiences. The show is very liberal with the story, making it the first show on American TV to depict sex between two men.
This drama series is set in Pittsburgh and revolves around trans, black, and Asian gay dating friends and their relationships, love lives, careers, and ambitions.
It offers an unapologetic look at the lives of urban, modern gay men and addresses critical health and political issues that affect the LGBTQ community.
If you‘re looking for a daring, humorous, and genuine show, you better find a cozy couch before you press play.
3. Modern Family (2009 – 2020)
It might have taken a while, but TV is getting better at depicting varied life experiences from the queer spectrum. Producers and directors are working hard to undermine stereotypes and get the representation right.
While there might be more work to be done, we must acknowledge those that broke the doors to Hollywood and created opportunities, both off and on the screen.
In the last 20 years, we’ve watched the entertainment industry take bolder steps in telling LGBTQ stories. Queer representation has gone from the sassy gay friend to real-life coming-of-age stories.
Are you looking for groundbreaking classics from the 90s or a TV series from the last decade with realistic LGBTQ themes? Well, here is a list of treats that everyone deserves.
4. The World to Come (2020)
Hop onto the time travel machine to the mid-19th century in the American East Coast frontier. Watch as Abigail, a deliberate and stoic woman, battles with her complex emotions. Later in the year, Tallie, a beautiful and emotionally frank woman who moves into the neighboring farm with her husband. Abigail says her marriage is based on practicality, while Tallie describes her husband as controlling and quarrelsome.
As the two spend more time together, they confess their feelings and kiss, leading to a sexual affair.
However, both husbands start to get jealous of how much time the two spend together. Tallie’s husband gets physically abusive before moving them away. Abigail tries to find Tallie, but she’s too late. She finds out Tallie died from what her husband claimed to be diphtheria.
Follow this forbidden love story of two women who find each other in the wrong place and time.
5. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
This must-see is a classic movie that put the highly marginalized LGBTQ community on the map. The flamboyance and color here are sure to make RuPaul jealous. Watch as two Drag Queens take a road trip across Australia to take their show in the middle of the Outback.
Watch the two learn each other’s secrets as they go through hilarious moments and mishaps, including homophobic abuse.
Once you watch the film, make sure to catch the 2011 musical version.
Conclusion
Movies and TV series are an integral part of modern society. We cannot ignore the amount of influence they have on culture and fashion. We have seen hundreds of trends come and go, all influenced by a specific show or a particular character.
A film can do more than dictate what pants are cool. They can educate and enlighten, empower, and take us through time. But most importantly, the film is the most powerful visibility tool for marginalized voices, including the LGBTQ+ community.