Feature Films - Primary gay theme
by ausrick | created - 22 Sep 2011 | updated - 08 Feb 2020 | PublicA list of LGBT films with a gay theme forming the main plot or major part of the story.
Titles rated 8 and above I consider "must see" films!
Titles rated 5 and above have delivered an enjoyable movie experience, or offer something significant to the history of this genre.
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1. Un amour à taire (2005 TV Movie)
103 min | Drama, Romance, War
A young Jewish girl looking to escape the clutches of the Third Reich after seeing her parents and sister brutally slain while attempting to make their way to England is sheltered by an old... See full summary »
Director: Christian Faure | Stars: Jérémie Renier, Louise Monot, Bruno Todeschini, Nicolas Gob
Votes: 3,207
A brilliant script sure to blow you away! Rarely does a film combine suspense, pathos, intelligence and gut wrenching sadness in such a tight and heart wrenching narrative. Set in 1942 during the upheaval of Nazi-occupied Paris. French with subtitles. 10/10
2. Brokeback Mountain (2005)
R | 134 min | Drama, Romance
Ennis and Jack are two shepherds who develop a sexual and emotional relationship. Their relationship becomes complicated when both of them get married to their respective girlfriends.
Director: Ang Lee | Stars: Jake Gyllenhaal, Heath Ledger, Michelle Williams, Randy Quaid
Votes: 382,391 | Gross: $83.04M
Painfully honest and frank, this story will stay with you long after the credits roll. It's rare to have the components that make a complete film combine in such a beautiful and powerful way. A true classic and rightly so, each time I leave with something new. 10/10
3. Maurice (1987)
R | 140 min | Drama, Romance
Two English school chums find themselves falling in love at Cambridge. To regain his place in society, Clive gives up Maurice and marries. While staying with Clive and his wife, Maurice discovers romance in the arms of the gamekeeper Alec.
Director: James Ivory | Stars: James Wilby, Rupert Graves, Hugh Grant, Denholm Elliott
Votes: 23,596 | Gross: $3.13M
A top rate period piece based on Forster's great story, brought to life by Merchant and Ivory. A moving gay love story with true heroes in a rigid and incredibly bigoted Edwardian setting. Easy to view time and again. 10/10
4. C.R.A.Z.Y. (2005)
Not Rated | 129 min | Comedy, Drama
A young French Canadian, one of five boys in a conservative family in the 1960s and 1970s, struggles to reconcile his emerging identity with his father's values.
Director: Jean-Marc Vallée | Stars: Michel Côté, Marc-André Grondin, Danielle Proulx, Émile Vallée
Votes: 34,133
A coming-of-age drama encapsulating Quebec in the sixties, seventies and eighties with an amazing sound track and great acting. Emile Vallee is incredible as Zac, the second youngest son in a family of five boys desperate to feel the love of his overbearing, homophobic father. French with subtitles. 9/10
5. Milk (I) (2008)
R | 128 min | Biography, Drama, History
The story of American gay activist Harvey Milk, who fought for gay rights and was elected as California's first openly gay official.
Director: Gus Van Sant | Stars: Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, Emile Hirsch, Diego Luna
Votes: 179,875 | Gross: $31.84M
A really great biopic, this represents Harvey Milk as truly human with flaws and all. It also portrays the history of the time as honestly as can be imagined. Sean Penn really delivers in the lead role. 9/10
6. Capote (2005)
R | 114 min | Biography, Crime, Drama
In 1959, Truman Capote learns of the murder of a Kansas family and decides to write a book about the case. While researching for his novel In Cold Blood, Capote forms a relationship with one of the killers, Perry Smith, who is on death row.
Director: Bennett Miller | Stars: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Clifton Collins Jr., Catherine Keener, Allie Mickelson
Votes: 140,807 | Gross: $28.75M
Philip Seymour Hoffman's brilliant portrayal of Truman Capote is the standout feature of this work. The complicated personal journey and exploration of his relationship with killer Perry Smith is fantastic. 9/10
7. Mysterious Skin (2004)
Unrated | 105 min | Drama
Two pre-adolescent boys both experienced a strange event and later it affects their lives in different ways. One becomes a reckless, sexually adventurous prostitute, while the other retreats into a reclusive fantasy of alien abduction.
Director: Gregg Araki | Stars: Brady Corbet, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Elisabeth Shue, Chase Ellison
Votes: 76,346 | Gross: $0.70M
Araki explores a difficult subject with a story spanning ten years in the lives of two youths who were abused as children. Unbelievably potent and disturbing, this movie will wring you out. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is amazing. 9/10
8. Beautiful Thing (1996)
R | 90 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Jamie is a shy teenager, often bullied at school. His neighbour Ste has a rough time at home, being beaten by his father and brother. This issues bring them together and they find that what they feel for each other is more than friendship.
Director: Hettie Macdonald | Stars: Glen Berry, Linda Henry, Scott Neal, Tameka Empson
Votes: 25,759 | Gross: $1.50M
A wonderfully simple film that is a breath of fresh air and perhaps my favorite coming-of-age drama. A great British story set in a grim working class environment but told with incredible positivity. This one will leave you happy and uplifted. 8/10
9. Shelter (II) (2007)
R | 97 min | Drama, Romance, Sport
When his college dreams are sidelined by family obligations, a young man finds comfort in surfing with his best friend's brother.
Director: Jonah Markowitz | Stars: Trevor Wright, Brad Rowe, Tina Holmes, Jackson Wurth
Votes: 24,043 | Gross: $0.14M
A sweet, sexy romance about a confused young artist torn between his family and his future. All the anticipated story arcs are in place, however the actors do a great job with the script. Not without a few flaws, probably due to budget constraints. 8/10
10. A Single Man (2009)
R | 99 min | Crime, Drama, Romance
An English professor, one year after the sudden death of his boyfriend, is unable to cope with his typical days in 1960s Los Angeles.
Director: Tom Ford | Stars: Colin Firth, Julianne Moore, Matthew Goode, Nicholas Hoult
Votes: 117,790 | Gross: $9.17M
A beautifully lush and precise film about a gay man struggling with the recent death of his lover. The film's message is left for us to take, not forced. Superbly cast, particularly Colin Firth who can give so much by doing seemingly so little. 8/10
11. Boys Don't Cry (1999)
R | 118 min | Biography, Crime, Drama
A young man named Brandon Teena navigates love, life, and being transgender in rural Nebraska.
Director: Kimberly Peirce | Stars: Hilary Swank, Chloë Sevigny, Peter Sarsgaard, Brendan Sexton III
Votes: 103,313 | Gross: $11.53M
Based on true events and difficult to watch in places, with several violent and disturbing scenes. Swank builds a compassionate understanding of the complex character of Brandon without converting him into a saint-like figure. The real power here is to enable a wide audience to think about sexual differences and what it might be like trapped in a gender that doesn't fit.
12. A Home at the End of the World (2004)
R | 97 min | Drama, Romance
A boy who has experienced many losses in his life grows to manhood and enters into a love triangle with a woman and his boyhood friend.
Director: Michael Mayer | Stars: Colin Farrell, Dallas Roberts, Robin Wright, Sissy Spacek
Votes: 14,004 | Gross: $1.03M
A powerful movie about the need to feel love and to belong. Three friends build their vision of 'family' and attempt to hang on for the ride. Colin Farrell provides an astonishing performance. This is another great movie for the romantics among us. 8/10
13. Love in Thoughts (2004)
89 min | Drama, Romance
A posthumous look at the last days of Guenther's life as he, his best friend, and his sister let loose on a four-day binge of alcohol, drugs, and sex.
Director: Achim von Borries | Stars: Daniel Brühl, August Diehl, Anna Maria Mühe, Jana Pallaske
Votes: 4,286
Based on a true story, this is an intense and heady exploration of privileged, destructive youth. Drawn slowly, it has a poetic feeling of melancholy and sadness. Rich cinematography and strong musical score round it off perfectly. I love that Gunther's sexuality was a significant part of the story, but didn't totally dominate. German with subtitles. 8/10
14. Gods and Monsters (1998)
R | 105 min | Biography, Drama
The last days of Frankenstein (1931) director James Whale are explored.
Director: Bill Condon | Stars: Ian McKellen, Brendan Fraser, Lynn Redgrave, Lolita Davidovich
Votes: 32,773 | Gross: $6.39M
A rich character study of famed movie director James Whale with notable acting performances. McKellen and Fraser share empowering scenes where one character sees mirrored in the other their own fears and emotions. 8/10
15. Wilde (1997)
R | 118 min | Biography, Drama, Romance
The turmoil in poet/playwright Oscar Wilde's life after he discovers his homosexuality.
Director: Brian Gilbert | Stars: Stephen Fry, Jude Law, Vanessa Redgrave, Jennifer Ehle
Votes: 18,128 | Gross: $2.16M
A sensitive, involving and detailed biopic of a great Victorian era writer. The forbidden relationship between Wilde and Douglas was venomous and sweet, brought to life perfectly through Stephen Fry and Jude Law. 8/10
16. Longtime Companion (1989)
R | 96 min | Drama, Romance
The emergence and devastation of the AIDS epidemic is chronicled in the lives of several gay men living during the 1980s.
Director: Norman René | Stars: Stephen Caffrey, Patrick Cassidy, Brian Cousins, Bruce Davison
Votes: 6,133 | Gross: $4.61M
A poignant and touching film that every person should see. Set in the 1980's and still incredibly powerful today, if you're not emotionally moved by this work, you're not human. 8/10
17. Patrik, Age 1.5 (2008)
Unrated | 103 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
A Swedish gay couple adopt what they think is an 18-month-old orphan, only to meet their new son, a 15-year-old homophobic delinquent.
Director: Ella Lemhagen | Stars: Gustaf Skarsgård, Torkel Petersson, Tom Ljungman, Amanda Davin
Votes: 10,394 | Gross: $0.06M
A refreshing drama about love and family relationships that will sweep you through a range of emotions. The simple script is beautifully acted, particularly Gustaf Skarsgård as Goran. Swedish with subtitles. 8/10
18. The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
R | 104 min | Comedy, Music
Two drag performers and a transgender woman travel across the desert to perform their unique style of cabaret.
Director: Stephan Elliott | Stars: Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce, Terence Stamp, Rebel Penfold-Russell
Votes: 55,135 | Gross: $11.22M
A wonderfully nutty movie exploring life, love, fatherhood, and most of all friendship and loyalty as three very different drag queens travel in the remote Australian Outback. A movie that didn't follow trends or conventions, but start new ones. 8/10
19. Lilies (1996)
R | 95 min | Crime, Drama, Fantasy
When a bishop comes to a prison to hear the confession of an old friend he is forced to watch a play, performed by the inmates, about their youth together, love and betrayal.
Director: John Greyson | Stars: Ian D. Clark, Marcel Sabourin, Aubert Pallascio, Jason Cadieux
Votes: 2,843 | Gross: $0.22M
Intricate and ingenious use of the "theatrical" with cuts between prison re-enactments and actual events providing a seamless story. This tale of love, murder, and retribution is told in a unique way with a very artistic feel. 8/10
20. Bad Education (2004)
NC-17 | 106 min | Crime, Drama
An examination on the effect of Franco-era religious schooling and sexual abuse on the lives of two longtime friends.
Director: Pedro Almodóvar | Stars: Gael García Bernal, Fele Martínez, Javier Cámara, Daniel Giménez Cacho
Votes: 63,426 | Gross: $5.21M
Pedro Almodóvar is an artist. The film noir style contains fascinating concepts beautifully and sensitively put into pictures. The complex twists and turns require your attention for a very worthwhile pay off. Gael García Bernal is great in three separate roles. Spanish with subtitles. 8/10
21. Yossi & Jagger (2002)
R | 65 min | Drama, History, Romance
Romance blooms between two soldiers (Knoller, Levi) stationed in an Israeli outpost on the Lebanese border.
Director: Eytan Fox | Stars: Ohad Knoller, Yehuda Levi, Assi Cohen, Aya Steinovitz
Votes: 7,616
Brief at just 65 minutes, but very natural and surprisingly affecting. Set among a platoon of soldiers operating on the Israeli-Lebanese border, the story focuses on the secret relationship of two men. Filming with a handheld camera can be problematic, but there is a scene in the snow where it works beautifully. Hebrew with subtitles. 8/10
22. The Crying Game (1992)
R | 112 min | Crime, Drama, Romance
A British soldier kidnapped by the IRA soon befriends one of his captors, who then becomes drawn into the soldier's world.
Director: Neil Jordan | Stars: Stephen Rea, Jaye Davidson, Forest Whitaker, Miranda Richardson
Votes: 60,077 | Gross: $62.55M
A sensation in 1992, and still an intelligently written and well acted thriller. It features one of the most startling plot twists ever conceived for film and definitely stands the test of time. 8/10
23. Before Night Falls (2000)
R | 133 min | Biography, Drama, Romance
The life of Cuban poet and novelist, Reinaldo Arenas.
Director: Julian Schnabel | Stars: Javier Bardem, Johnny Depp, Olatz López Garmendia, Giovani Florido
Votes: 26,379 | Gross: $4.22M
A visual feast with this biopic of Reynaldo Arenas, the novelist and poet imprisoned and later exiled from Cuba for his controversial writings and open homosexuality. Javier Bardem captures the many complexities of Reynaldo, who constantly found himself unwanted by the world around him, yet filled with ability to see the beauty within it. English and Spanish. 8/10
24. Undertow (2009)
Not Rated | 97 min | Drama, Fantasy, Romance
An unusual ghost story set on the Peruvian seaside; a married fisherman struggles to reconcile his devotion to his male lover within his town's rigid traditions.
Director: Javier Fuentes-León | Stars: Cristian Mercado, Tatiana Astengo, Manolo Cardona, Attilia Boschetti
Votes: 7,203
A beautiful script with simple exchanges delivering a powerful message. The cinematography is memorizing and the story captures perfectly the choice to become true to yourself and all those you love. Spanish with subtitles. 8/10
25. Wild Reeds (1994)
Not Rated | 110 min | Drama
The fates of two partners are divided.
Director: André Téchiné | Stars: Élodie Bouchez, Gaël Morel, Stéphane Rideau, Frédéric Gorny
Votes: 6,647 | Gross: $0.92M
A solid coming-of-age drama about 4 teenagers in rural France in 1962. The film is very well made, offering a depiction of adolescence that is complex and sophisticated. The lush cinematography is beautiful throughout and the cast is great. French with subtitles. 8/10
26. Red Dirt (2000)
Not Rated | 110 min | Drama, Romance
Red Dirt offers the story of a young man's search to belong in this sublime expression of love and reconciliation. At only twenty, Griffith is struggling with the responsibilities of caring... See full summary »
Director: Tag Purvis | Stars: Dan Montgomery Jr., Aleksa Palladino, Karen Black, Peg O'Keef
Votes: 1,022
This film evokes Southern Louisiana so perfectly that you'll think you're there! Through strange entanglements,see how the heart's quest for love can find its way regardless of the difficulties. Walton Goggins brings incredible intensity and emotion to his character. Romantics will love this film. See it twice to capture all that is there for you. 8/10
27. Eyes Wide Open (2009)
Not Rated | 91 min | Drama, Romance
A married, Orthodox, Jerusalem butcher and Jewish father of four falls in love with his handsome, 22-year-old male apprentice, triggering the suspicions of his wife and the disapproval of his Orthodox community.
Director: Haim Tabakman | Stars: Zohar Strauss, Ran Khalil Danker, Tinkerbell, Tzahi Grad
Votes: 6,572 | Gross: $0.02M
Simplicity and restraint imbue this film with power and conviction. Set in an ultra Orthodox Jewish society in Jerusalem, it tells the story of a family man whose inner world is torn apart when he falls in love with a young man. Highly recommended. Hebrew with subtitles. 8/10
28. Law of Desire (1987)
NC-17 | 102 min | Comedy, Drama, Thriller
A gay filmmaker becomes involved with an obsessive fan while still pining for his absent true love. Meanwhile, he shares a close but complex relationship with his trans sister, an actress.
Director: Pedro Almodóvar | Stars: Eusebio Poncela, Carmen Maura, Antonio Banderas, Miguel Molina
Votes: 14,087
Almodovar delights with a look at the meaning of desire and love. The sexuality of the protagonists is depicted openly and frankly and while gay-themed movies were taking shape in 1987, few were as erotic or in-your-face as this. Law of Desire was perhaps the film to establish Almodovar internationally. Spanish with subtitles. 8/10
29. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
R | 139 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
In late 1950s New York, a young underachiever named Tom Ripley is sent to Italy to retrieve Dickie Greenleaf, a rich and spoiled millionaire playboy. But when the errand fails, Ripley takes extreme measures.
Director: Anthony Minghella | Stars: Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Cate Blanchett
Votes: 243,492 | Gross: $81.30M
An intelligent well made thriller. Matt Damon explores the darker side of a character that you might come to be both sympathetic towards and freaked out by. 8/10
30. Philadelphia (1993)
PG-13 | 125 min | Drama
When a man with HIV is fired by his law firm because of his condition, he hires a homophobic small time lawyer as the only willing advocate for a wrongful dismissal suit.
Director: Jonathan Demme | Stars: Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Roberta Maxwell, Buzz Kilman
Votes: 258,184 | Gross: $77.32M
One of just a few mainstream breakthrough films, when this court-room drama was released, dying of AIDS was not understood or openly talked about. Tom Hanks is excellent in his Oscar winning performance. Scenes giving emotional depth and clarity to the intimate male relationship were cut, leaving the character played by Antonio Banderas unnecessarily under-done. 8/10
31. Weekend (II) (2011)
Not Rated | 97 min | Drama, Romance
After a drunken house party with his straight mates, Russell heads out to a gay club. Just before closing time he picks up Glen but what's expected to be just a one-night stand becomes something else, something special.
Director: Andrew Haigh | Stars: Tom Cullen, Chris New, Jonathan Race, Laura Freeman
Votes: 32,869 | Gross: $0.46M
A unique brief encounter movie where two guys meet for a one-night stand but realise a strong mutual attraction. Over the course of an intense weekend, including one hell of an alcohol and drug fuelled bender, they explore feelings and challenge their own and each other's perceptions. The lead characters have great chemistry and deliver strong intensity. 7/10
32. Get Real (1998)
R | 108 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
A tenderly romantic coming-of-age story as two boys in a British school fall in love.
Director: Simon Shore | Stars: Ben Silverstone, Brad Gorton, Charlotte Brittain, Stacy Hart
Votes: 14,680 | Gross: $1.20M
Satisfying coming-of-age film from the UK offering a vividly realistic portrayal. Balancing humor and emotional drama, it travels slowly, transporting you into the world of first love and infatuation. 7/10
33. Cachorro (2004)
R | 99 min | Comedy, Drama
Pedro, a gay man with an active social life and many friends, takes in his nephew Bernardo for a couple weeks. When the arrangement becomes permanent , Pedro turns to his friends for guidance as he and Bernardo forge a household together.
Director: Miguel Albaladejo | Stars: José Luis García-Pérez, David Castillo, Empar Ferrer, Elvira Lindo
Votes: 3,687 | Gross: $0.10M
Well-balanced, technically competent dramedy, that is both funny and touching. Finally some fresh storytelling, where a gay man with a full and busy life finds himself caring for his young nephew. An honest depiction of gay social life without judgment using characters that break stereotypes. Spanish with subtitles. 7/10
34. North Sea Texas (2011)
Not Rated | 98 min | Drama, Romance
A teenage boy's search for love finds him fixated on a boy who lives nearby.
Director: Bavo Defurne | Stars: Ben Van den Heuvel, Eva van der Gucht, Thomas Coumans, Katelijne Damen
Votes: 10,008 | Gross: $0.03M
Jelle Florizoone's portrayal of beautifully awkward and introverted Pim is the standout. Bavo Defurne is known for short films and this felt like a short film manipulated into a feature. I look forward to seeing how Defurne develops in future work. Dutch with subtitles. 7/10
35. Strapped (2010)
Not Rated | 95 min | Drama, Romance
A handsome young prostitute learns about life and love during a sex-filled odyssey in an apartment building filled with strange inhabitants.
Director: Joseph Graham | Stars: Benjamin Bonenfant, Nick Frangione, Artem Mishin, Michael Carlisi
Votes: 2,910
It's exciting when you find a movie that offers so much more than you anticipate. Graham's writing and direction are excellent and Ben Bonenfant is just wonderful. He plays a young hustler 'finding himself' in a crazy mixed up world. The tenderness and vulnerability captured by the various actors breathes life into this work. Not without some issues, but definitely worthwhile. 7/10
36. The Ignorant Fairies (2001)
R | 106 min | Drama, Romance
After a deathly car accident, Antonia starts dating her husband's friends and finds the truth about his life.
Director: Ferzan Özpetek | Stars: Margherita Buy, Stefano Accorsi, Serra Yilmaz, Gabriel Garko
Votes: 10,043 | Gross: $0.22M
A unique story concept delivered with real warmth exploring love, betrayal, deceit and infatuation. Fantastic depth in character development. The US title is "His Secret Life" and worth finding. Italian with subtitles. 7/10
37. My Own Private Idaho (1991)
R | 104 min | Drama
Two best friends living on the streets of Portland as hustlers embark on a journey of self discovery and find their relationship stumbling along the way.
Director: Gus Van Sant | Stars: River Phoenix, Keanu Reeves, James Russo, William Richert
Votes: 61,770 | Gross: $6.40M
Gus Van Sant turns his visionary eye to a commentary on the basic human need for love and home. River Phoenix's career best performance as the narcoleptic and confused street-hustler Mike. Love it or not, you won't forget it. 7/10
38. Borstal Boy (2000)
Not Rated | 91 min | Drama, Romance
Irish teenager political activist and future writer Brendan Behan is befriended in a British borstal (reformatory) by a liberal warden.
Director: Peter Sheridan | Stars: Shawn Hatosy, Danny Dyer, Eamon Glancy, Ian McElhinney
Votes: 2,571 | Gross: $0.09M
A hidden gem! The story of a young Brendan Behan who discovers love, friendship and tragedy whilst imprisoned in an English reform school. Brendan and Charlie's relationship is beautifully developed, both characters exuding a wonderful innocence. 7/10
39. Howl (2010)
R | 84 min | Biography, Drama, Romance
As Allen Ginsberg talks about his life and art, his most famous poem is illustrated in animation while the obscenity trial of the work is dramatized.
Directors: Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman | Stars: James Franco, Todd Rotondi, Jon Prescott, Aaron Tveit
Votes: 13,407 | Gross: $0.62M
A narrative film exploring Ginsberg's poetry and impact on American culture. The directors embrace the idiosyncratic rhythm and imagery of the poetry, weaving together an hypnotic film from different storytelling threads. "Howl" reflected Ginsberg's sexuality and relationships with a number of men, including his lifelong partner. 7/10
40. Quinceañera (2006)
R | 90 min | Drama
As Magdalena's 15th birthday approaches, her simple, blissful life is complicated by the discovery that she's pregnant. Kicked out of her house, she finds a new family with her great-granduncle and gay cousin.
Directors: Richard Glatzer, Wash Westmoreland | Stars: Emily Rios, Jesse Garcia, Chalo González, Jesus Castanos
Votes: 4,300 | Gross: $1.69M
An excellent slice-of-life family drama looking at homosexuality, teen pregnancy and racism. Jesse Garcia's portrayal of a young gay Latino gang member blows away all stereotypes. English and Spanish with subtitles. 7/10
41. Latter Days (2003)
R | 107 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
A promiscuous gay party animal falls for a young Mormon missionary, leading to crisis, cliché, and catastrophe.
Director: C. Jay Cox | Stars: Wes Ramsey, Steve Sandvoss, Mary Kay Place, Amber Benson
Votes: 18,584 | Gross: $0.82M
An ambitious story that provokes soul searching about the joys and challenges of being gay from a religious perspective. Starting as traditional romantic comedy then shifting into solid drama, it is far from perfect, but contains more good moments than bad. 7/10
42. Bent (1997)
NC-17 | 105 min | Drama, History, Romance
In 1930s Berlin, a gay Jew is sent to a concentration camp under the Nazi regime.
Director: Sean Mathias | Stars: Lothaire Bluteau, Clive Owen, Mick Jagger, Brian Webber
Votes: 8,822 | Gross: $0.37M
Adapted from a stage play, the film is not perfect, but quite unusual and entirely captivating. It's always horrifying to see depictions of the extent of man's inhumanity and intolerance. Of particular note is the non-physical sex scene at the concentration camp, which is powerful and touching. 7/10
43. Torch Song Trilogy (1988)
R | 120 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Arnold is a gay man working as drag queen in 1971 NYC. He meets a handsome bisexual man.
Director: Paul Bogart | Stars: Anne Bancroft, Matthew Broderick, Harvey Fierstein, Brian Kerwin
Votes: 7,823 | Gross: $4.87M
Adapted from a successful stage play, it is sometimes busy and heavy-handed, but also brilliant and funny. A genuinely heartfelt and detailed look into the life of a gay man, his relationships and family. 15 years on, it holds up incredibly well. 7/10
44. Chef's Special (2008)
Not Rated | 111 min | Comedy, Romance
Javier Cámara (Talk to Her) stars as Chef Maxi, a culinary genius/drama queen with too much on his plate.
Director: Nacho G. Velilla | Stars: Javier Cámara, Lola Dueñas, Fernando Tejero, Benjamín Vicuña
Votes: 2,242
An enjoyable, well written and action-filled comedy-farce from Spain. Unlike similar films from the USA or UK, it features one or two dramatic sub-plots. The humour works well, with a credible story and tight acting. There are no hateful characters or over-the-top stereotypes. Enjoyed and recommended. Spanish with subtitles. 7/10
45. The Country Teacher (2008)
Unrated | 103 min | Drama, Romance
Petr, youthful, quiet, and sensitive, comes from Prague to teach natural science in a country town. The gruff principal asks what he's running from and predicts he'll be gone in six months.... See full summary »
Director: Bohdan Sláma | Stars: Pavel Liska, Zuzana Bydzovská, Ladislav Sedivý, Marek Daniel
Votes: 1,518 | Gross: $0.05M
Looks at love and loss in a rural farming village in the Czech Republic. A gentle and often inspiring film about self-acceptance and the resilience of people who discover that their lives work better together than apart. Czech with subtitles. 7/10
46. Were the World Mine (2008)
Not Rated | 95 min | Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
A bullied and demoralized gay student at an all-boys school uses a magical flower derived from Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream' to turn many in his community gay, including a comely rugby player for himself.
Director: Tom Gustafson | Stars: Tanner Cohen, Wendy Robie, Judy McLane, Zelda Williams
Votes: 5,893 | Gross: $0.12M
Something different with an adorable fantasy musical. It's a queer interpretation of A Midsummer Night's Dream and set in an all boy's school. The sparse musical numbers are effectively worked into the story and Tanner Cohen in the lead has a strong, beautiful voice. 7/10
47. Juste une question d'amour (2000 TV Movie)
88 min | Drama, Romance
After his gay cousin dies from hepatitis, young Laurent, who lives with his best friend Carole, falls in love with Cedric, a plant scientist. He's afraid to inform his conservative parents that he is gay.
Director: Christian Faure | Stars: Cyrille Thouvenin, Stéphan Guérin-Tillié, Éva Darlan, Caroline Veyt
Votes: 6,081
A sensitive, unbiased examination of how coming out impacts not only the individual, but also their friends and family. Great chemistry between the two male leads. French with subtitles. 7/10
48. Bungee Jumping of Their Own (2001)
107 min | Drama, Romance
Two soulmates find each other only to be torn apart by tragedy. However, not even death can keep them apart...but can destiny?
Director: Kim Dae-seung | Stars: Lee Byung-hun, Eun-ju Lee, Yeo Hyeon-soo, Hong Soo-hyun
Votes: 1,419
A beautifully made story about true love, the concept of there being a one and only. It features a significant reincarnation twist. Romantics will love this movie, but may also feel uncomfortable about the characters ultimate inability to accept the fate they were handed. Korean with subtitles. 7/10
49. I Love You Phillip Morris (2009)
R | 98 min | Biography, Comedy, Crime
A cop turns con man once he comes out of the closet. Once imprisoned, he meets the second love of his life, whom he'll stop at nothing to be with.
Directors: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa | Stars: Jim Carrey, Ewan McGregor, Leslie Mann, Rodrigo Santoro
Votes: 99,805 | Gross: $2.04M
Initially apprehensive about Jim Carey, I really enjoyed this romantic comedy about a man who just can't stop conning his way through life. The primary characters are gay, it is a non-fiction piece and features an off-kilter con-man as the romantic lead. Sounds bizarre, yet these elements come together to make a really entertaining movie. 7/10
50. Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001)
R | 95 min | Comedy, Drama, Music
A gender-queer punk-rock singer from East Berlin tours the U.S. with her band as she tells her life story and follows the former lover/band-mate who stole her songs.
Director: John Cameron Mitchell | Stars: John Cameron Mitchell, Miriam Shor, Stephen Trask, Theodore Liscinski
Votes: 37,355 | Gross: $3.03M
Surprising glam-rock musical with unexpected depth and complexity! Great songs that move the story forward. John Cameron Mitchell does a fantastic job with the complex character of Hedwig, whose journey of self discovery and finding wholeness is engrossing. 7/10
51. L.I.E. (2001)
R | 97 min | Crime, Drama
A 15-year-old Long Island boy loses everything and everyone he knows, soon becoming involved in a relationship with a much older man.
Director: Michael Cuesta | Stars: Brian Cox, Paul Dano, Bruce Altman, Billy Kay
Votes: 10,451 | Gross: $1.14M
A daring and complex coming-of-age drama about an abandoned 15-year-old Long Island boy, Howie. A feature of this work is the effective and complex drawing of both Howie and the suspicious older character of Big John, played by Brian Cox. 7/10
52. Kiss of the Spider Woman (1985)
R | 120 min | Drama
A gay man and a political prisoner are together in a prison. The gay man narrates the stories of two fake movies and his own life.
Director: Hector Babenco | Stars: William Hurt, Raul Julia, Sonia Braga, José Lewgoy
Votes: 17,358 | Gross: $17.04M
A strong character study winning Hurt an Oscar for Best Actor. What is powerful is how each character helps the other to realise their self worth, despite the totalitarian brutality around them. A cult classic that holds up all these years on. 7/10
53. Leo's Room (2009)
Unrated | 95 min | Drama, Romance
Leo, a young man coming to terms with his own sexuality, runs into Caro, a primary school friend he fancied when they were kids, who's now trying to ward off her own personal demons. This ... See full summary »
Director: Enrique Buchichio | Stars: Martín Rodríguez, Cecilia Cósero, Gerardo Begérez, Arturo Goetz
Votes: 1,151
A simple, unpretentious and intimate character study of a sweet young Uruguayan man. Slowly paced and beautifully filmed, Martín Rodríguez brings depth to his character's personal journey of self-discovery. A coming-out story that is a refreshing alternative to the mainstream treatment. Spanish with subtitles. 7/10
54. The Wedding Banquet (1993)
R | 106 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
To satisfy his nagging parents, a gay landlord and a female tenant agree to a marriage of convenience, but his parents arrive to visit and things get out of hand.
Director: Ang Lee | Stars: Winston Chao, May Chin, Ah-Lei Gua, Sihung Lung
Votes: 17,152 | Gross: $6.93M
More drama than comedy, the Wedding Banquet is a clash of cultures that effectively exposes the truths and untruths in stereotypes, sexuality, and tradition. Culture plays into the motivations for each character's actions throughout the movie. Mandarin and English with subtitles. 7/10
55. And the Band Played On (1993 TV Movie)
PG | 141 min | Drama, History
The story of the discovery of the AIDS epidemic, and the political infighting of the scientific community hampering the early fight with it.
Director: Roger Spottiswoode | Stars: Matthew Modine, Alan Alda, Patrick Bauchau, Nathalie Baye
Votes: 11,011
The AIDS epidemic was allowed to develop before anything significant was done. An all star cast explore how doctors, researchers and the federal government contributed to the progression of the disease before establishing a practical response. 7/10
56. Like It Is (1998)
Not Rated | 97 min | Drama, Romance, Sport
A tough young boxer struggles to come out in England. Having travelled to London, from his smaller town, he meets and falls for a twenty-something music producer. But love doesn't come easy.
Director: Paul Oremland | Stars: Steve Bell, Dani Behr, Ian Rose, Tony Van Silva
Votes: 1,794 | Gross: $0.09M
Steve Bell carries this film. He is totally convincing in the various aspects of his character: a confident fighter, a novice gay man, and a romantic lover. This movie is a valuable addition to gay romance/drama films showing everyday guys. 7/10
57. Happy Together (1997)
Not Rated | 96 min | Drama, Romance
A couple take a trip to Argentina but both men find their lives drifting apart in opposite directions.
Director: Kar-Wai Wong | Stars: Leslie Cheung, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, Chang Chen, Gregory Dayton
Votes: 34,067 | Gross: $0.19M
A mesmerizing and complex film involving lovers in conflict who are estranged from their homeland, their loved-ones and eventually each other. The strong, original cinematography is a feature. Mandarin with subtitles. 7/10
58. For a Lost Soldier (1992)
Unrated | 92 min | Drama, Romance, War
Set in The Netherlands at the end of WW II, this touching story, told in flashbacks, explores the complex and romantic relationship between an adult soldier and a displaced, lonely adolescent boy.
Director: Roeland Kerbosch | Stars: Maarten Smit, Andrew Kelley, Jeroen Krabbé, Freark Smink
Votes: 4,831 | Gross: $0.39M
The story of a Dutch boy's emotional and sexual relationship with an adult Canadian solider during World War II. Told from the boy's perspective, the relationship is shown as loving and magical, inviting you to consider if such relationships are intrinsically abusive or if they might, in extraordinary instances, have a validity. Beautifully filmed and acted. 7/10
59. The Sum of Us (1994)
R | 100 min | Comedy, Drama
A widowed father has to deal with two complex issues: while he is searching for "Miss Right," his son, who is in his 20s and gay, is searching for "Mr. Right."
Directors: Geoff Burton, Kevin Dowling | Stars: Jack Thompson, Russell Crowe, John Polson, Deborah Kennedy
Votes: 5,827 | Gross: $2.51M
A simple, authentic Australian story about unconditional family love and loyalty. Jack Thompson and Russell Crowe are perfect in roles that blow away any hint of stereotypes. Originally a stage play (which I saw years ago), the narration to camera can take some getting used to, but well worth the effort. 7/10
60. Transamerica (2005)
R | 103 min | Adventure, Comedy, Drama
A transgender woman takes an unexpected journey when she learns that she had a son, now a teenage runaway hustling on the streets of New York.
Director: Duncan Tucker | Stars: Felicity Huffman, Kevin Zegers, Fionnula Flanagan, Andrea James
Votes: 42,349 | Gross: $9.02M
A road movie about a pre-operative transsexual and her unknowing son and their complex relationship. Focusing on individual acceptance rather than social approval, the film is refreshingly solid and well acted. I was completely involved. Tucker cleverly balances a comic touch with the drama. Huffman was nominated for an Oscar. 7/10
61. Chasing Amy (1997)
R | 113 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Holden and Banky are comic book artists. Everything's going good for them until they meet Alyssa, also a comic book artist. Holden falls for her, but his hopes are crushed when he finds out she's a lesbian.
Director: Kevin Smith | Stars: Ben Affleck, Joey Lauren Adams, Ethan Suplee, Scott Mosier
Votes: 143,836 | Gross: $12.02M
A good conversational comedy that uncovers the hypocrisy surrounding gender relationships. It goes well beyond the acceptance of sexual preference, to look at the insecurities that all human beings have - gay or straight! Joey Lauren Adams and Ben Affleck are great. 7/10
62. The Laramie Project (2002 TV Movie)
TV-14 | 97 min | Crime, Drama, History
The true story of an American town in the wake of the murder of Matthew Shepard.
Director: Moisés Kaufman | Stars: Christina Ricci, Steve Buscemi, Kathleen Chalfant, Laura Linney
Votes: 6,958
From a play of the same name and made from interviews with residents of the town, the film is presented as an acted-documentary. Confront the realities of violence and hate in a way that is intense and infuriating. An intelligent, complex, and very relevant piece of work. 7/10
63. Burnt Money (2000)
R | 125 min | Crime, Drama, Romance
Nene & Angel and their accomplice Cuervo participate in a botched bank robbery in 1965 Buenos Aires, then hide out from the police in Uruguay while the gang breaks down.
Director: Marcelo Piñeyro | Stars: Eduardo Noriega, Leonardo Sbaraglia, Pablo Echarri, Leticia Brédice
Votes: 6,854 | Gross: $0.24M
The feature of this work is the subtle yet honest portrayal of the intense relationship between Angel and Nene. It's an incredibly passionate, destructive and uncompromising depiction. Spanish with subtitles. 7/10
64. From Beginning to End (2009)
Not Rated | 94 min | Drama, Romance
Two brothers develop a very close relationship as they are growing up in an idyllic and happy family. When they are young adults their relationship becomes very intimate, romantic, and sexual.
Director: Aluizio Abranches | Stars: Júlia Lemmertz, Fábio Assunção, Jean Pierre Noher, Louise Cardoso
Votes: 8,583
A huge taboo in western society, incest! We are invited to consider how love might flourish if life was uncomplicated by belief systems based on shame and conformity. From birth to young adulthood, we follow the story of two half-brothers. Portuguese with subtitles. 7/10
65. La Mission (2009)
R | 117 min | Drama
A single-parent ex-con in a tough minority neighborhood finds his personal values challenged when he discovers his son is gay.
Director: Peter Bratt | Stars: Benjamin Bratt, Alex Hernandez, Christopher Borgzinner, Jeremy Ray Valdez
Votes: 1,989 | Gross: $1.04M
Clearly a labour of love, this film has great depth and detail. It's about Hispanic culture from the perspective of a father and son in San Francisco's Mission district and provides a sensitive study of the culture with its good and bad points. 7/10
66. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
R | 100 min | Comedy, Horror, Musical
A newly-engaged couple have a breakdown in an isolated area and must seek shelter at the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-n-Furter.
Director: Jim Sharman | Stars: Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Richard O'Brien
Votes: 166,995 | Gross: $139.88M
From the riotous stage show of the early 70s, this cult classic rock musical is outrageously wonderful with a superb cast. With your friends or as private escape, it is just as good today as it was in 1975. 7/10
67. Loose Cannons (2010)
Not Rated | 110 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Tommaso is the youngest son of the Cantones, a large, traditional southern Italian family operating a pasta-making business since the 1960s. On a trip home from Rome, where he studies ... See full summary »
Director: Ferzan Özpetek | Stars: Riccardo Scamarcio, Nicole Grimaudo, Alessandro Preziosi, Ennio Fantastichini
Votes: 13,391
A lush family drama with hit and miss comedic moments. It had a feeling of uncertainty about what kind of movie to be. Vibrant cinematography, quality acting and good music worked to hold my interest. Italian with subtitles. 7/10
68. Head On (1998)
Not Rated | 104 min | Drama, Romance
A 19 year old Greek Australian youth struggles with his sexual identity and has one clumsy heterosexual and several homosexual encounters.
Director: Ana Kokkinos | Stars: Alex Dimitriades, Elle Mandalis, Damien Fotiou, Alex Papps
Votes: 4,626 | Gross: $0.38M
A hard-edged, fast-paced drama where Alex Dimitriades is Ari, a nihilistic young Greek-Australian on a wild binge. The story depicts a tortured struggle between burgeoning sexuality and the rigid expectations of Greek culture. 7/10
69. The Hanging Garden (1997)
R | 91 min | Drama, Romance
William, a once obese and depressed adolescent, is able to move past his teenage years when he moves to the city and comes out as being gay. When he returns home though, he can't cope with his memories.
Director: Thom Fitzgerald | Stars: Chris Leavins, Kerry Fox, Ian Parsons, Peter MacNeill
Votes: 3,079 | Gross: $0.93M
A very unusual slice-of-dysfunctional-life drama taking you into the strange world of a Nova Scotia family living in shadow of their drunkenly abusive patriarch. Much of the story focuses on the gay son William, who returns having abandoned the family 10 years earlier. Flashback fantasy sequences and strange character interactions together with confronting metaphors will ensure this film will not suit everyone. 7/10
70. No Night Is Too Long (2002 TV Movie)
Unrated | 116 min | Crime, Drama, Romance
Young Tim Cornish's life has begun with great promise. Blessed with extraordinary good looks, Tim enjoyed much attention and cared little of broken hearts. At University he was a favored ... See full summary »
Director: Tom Shankland | Stars: Lee Williams, Marc Warren, Emily Holmes, Christina Jastrzembska
Votes: 2,725
An enthralling thriller! Allow yourself to be manipulated by the twists and turns in this daring and intricate movie. My only gripe was with the done-to-death cliches for the gay characters. Hard to find, I got my dvd from Amazon in France. 7/10
71. Cabaret (1972)
PG | 124 min | Drama, Music, Musical
A female girlie club entertainer in Weimar Republic era Berlin romances two men while the Nazi Party rises to power around them.
Director: Bob Fosse | Stars: Liza Minnelli, Michael York, Helmut Griem, Joel Grey
Votes: 59,418 | Gross: $42.77M
Included for historical significance, Cabaret was the first mainstream Hollywood movie to include a whiff of queer sexuality as a natural component of the story. Cabaret also satisfies as pure entertainment, frequently described as the last of the great Hollywood musicals. 7/10
72. Pride (I) (2014)
R | 119 min | Biography, Comedy, Drama
U.K. gay activists work to help miners during their lengthy strike of the National Union of Mineworkers in the summer of 1984.
Director: Matthew Warchus | Stars: Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West, Paddy Considine
Votes: 61,655
Mostly uplifting movie based on true events during a bleak time in 1980s Britain. I enjoyed the portrayal of activism as social equaliser, bringing diverse people together in a spirit of support and desire to control our destinies. 7/10
73. Soldier's Girl (2003 TV Movie)
R | 112 min | Biography, Crime, Drama
The true story of the price a young soldier paid for falling in love with a transsexual night-club performer.
Director: Frank Pierson | Stars: Troy Garity, Lee Pace, Andre Braugher, Shawn Hatosy
Votes: 7,241
A young soldier falls for a beautiful transsexual. The film treats their love as simple and natural but they face complexities delivered by people around them. It's based on a true story making it all the more painful to watch. 7/10
74. Mambo Italiano (2003)
R | 99 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
The son of Italian immigrants to Canada struggles to find the best way to reveal to his parents that he's gay.
Director: Émile Gaudreault | Stars: Luke Kirby, Peter Miller, Ginette Reno, Paul Sorvino
Votes: 6,956 | Gross: $6.24M
A light-hearted, well acted and yes, stereotypical comedy about coming-out amidst family cultural pressures. This time, an expatriate Italian family with a gay son in Montreal. The stereotypes, both sexual and cultural aren't offensive, but rather delightful and help the light nature of the film along. 7/10
75. Another Country (1984)
PG | 90 min | Biography, Drama, History
Based on the life of the young Guy Burgess, who would become better known as one of the Cambridge Spies.
Director: Marek Kanievska | Stars: Rupert Everett, Colin Firth, Michael Jenn, Robert Addie
Votes: 6,968
Detailed study of life at an elite private school in 1930s England, with gorgeous cinematography and wonderful interactions between Rupert Everett and Colin Firth. For me, the movie fails to fully explain the defection to Russia, but in other respects is excellent. 6/10
76. Watercolors (2008)
TV-MA | 114 min | Drama, Romance
A story about two classmates - one smart and openly gay and the other school swimming star. They grow as friends and discover their attraction to each other.
Director: David Oliveras | Stars: Tye Olson, Kyle Clare, Ellie Araiza, Casey Kramer
Votes: 1,638 | Gross: $0.01M
A young artist is haunted by a tragedy during high-school. Some great moments including the early pool scene and the main love scene where it rains inside the living room, providing a surreal and magical feel. A larger budget would have allowed this film to fully blossom. 6/10
77. Plan B (I) (2009)
Not Rated | 106 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
After girlfriend Laura dumps him for another man, Bruno plots to come between the new lovers. But his plan takes an unexpected turn, causing Bruno to question his own sexuality.
Director: Marco Berger | Stars: Manuel Vignau, Lucas Ferraro, Mercedes Quinteros, Damián Canduci
Votes: 4,531
For me, the highlight is the portrayal of abject confusion by Manuel Vignau, when his character Bruno, finds himself in a situation that wasn’t part of any plan! I’m a fan of the slow burn, but at times I felt impatient, with long takes and close framed shots dragging on. There’s enough here for this to be worth your time. Subsequent work by Marco Berger builds on this piece. Spanish with subtitles. 6/10
78. Pedro (2008)
Not Rated | 90 min | Drama
In 1994 Pedro Zamora was the first HIV-positive gay man to appear in a reality show on MTV. The audience of 'The Real World: San Francisco' identified easily with this intelligent, ... See full summary »
Director: Nick Oceano | Stars: Alex Loynaz, Justina Machado, Hale Appleman, DaJuan Johnson
Votes: 540
Pedro Zamora's story is moving and inspirational. Incredibly, this movie came off feeling like a movie-of-the-week, reducing my overall rating. Among the various work available about Pedro, this is worth viewing. 6/10
79. Cowboys & Angels (2003)
Not Rated | 89 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama
The story concerns a hapless civil servant who gets more than he bargained for when he moves into an apartment with a gay fashion student and finds himself on the catwalk. The film sets out... See full summary »
Director: David Gleeson | Stars: Michael Legge, Allen Leech, Amy Shiels, David Murray
Votes: 2,600 | Gross: $0.03M
Neat, well rounded coming-of-age drama from Ireland. It features a confident, well-balanced gay lead character who develops a strong and lasting friendship with his straight house mate. 6/10
80. My Beautiful Laundrette (1985)
R | 97 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
An ambitious Pakistani Briton and his white boyfriend strive for success and hope when they open a glamorous laundromat.
Director: Stephen Frears | Stars: Saeed Jaffrey, Roshan Seth, Daniel Day-Lewis, Richard Graham
Votes: 17,303 | Gross: $2.45M
Thatchers 1980 Britain divided by class, ethnicity and sexuality. Made for television, the movie lacks a budget and relies too heavily on eccentric charm. Filled with social, sexual, and political commentary, the gay relationship of the lead characters is effectively incorporated into the narrative. 6/10
81. The Trip (2002)
R | 95 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Romance, politics, sex and humor all collide during two men's 11-year journey of passion, self-discovery and adventure.
Director: Miles Swain | Stars: Larry Sullivan, Steve Braun, Ray Baker, James Handy
Votes: 3,920 | Gross: $0.11M
Two men with very different political positions meet in 1973 as we follow their story well into the 80's. Experience many of the political and social commentaries of the time. A huge project on a tight budget, but Miles Swain comes respectably close to pulling it off. 6/10
82. Prayers for Bobby (2009 TV Movie)
TV-14 | 90 min | Biography, Drama, Romance
True story of Mary Griffith, gay rights crusader, whose teenage son committed suicide due to her religious intolerance. Based on the book of the same title by Leroy Aarons.
Director: Russell Mulcahy | Stars: Sigourney Weaver, Henry Czerny, Ryan Kelley, Austin Nichols
Votes: 17,955
Sigourney Weaver slams this one home as a right-wing bible bashing nut who can't accept that her son is gay. This will leave you shaking your head, wondering why it takes such tragedy before people open their eyes to what's really important. 6/10
83. Children of God (2010)
Not Rated | 104 min | Drama
The story of two young Bahamian men who fall in love with each other and portrays the homophobia of the Bahamian society.
Director: Kareem Mortimer | Stars: Johnny Ferro, Stephen Tyrone Williams, Margaret Laurena Kemp, Mark Ford
Votes: 1,403
Set in the Bahamas, this expansion of the short movie Float is a slowly paced poetic love story with wonderful cinematography. The original story is expanded with a new narrative about anti-gay sentiment in Jamaican society which, rather than blend, pulls in a different direction. The cliché to end the film was disappointing. 6/10
84. The Boys in the Band (1970)
R | 118 min | Drama
Tempers fray and true selves are revealed when a heterosexual accidentally intrudes on a homosexual party.
Director: William Friedkin | Stars: Kenneth Nelson, Peter White, Leonard Frey, Frederick Combs
Votes: 5,894 | Gross: $7.63M
Important for our history, politics and art, the stage play and film were truly ground-breaking in the late 60's and early 70's. Forty years on, it can still hit uncomfortably close to home. The 40th anniversary dvd has excellent documentaries. Many of the actors are no longer with us. 6/10
85. Summer Storm (2004)
R | 98 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
A close friendship between two crew teammates is tested when one slowly discovers he's gay and attracted to the other.
Director: Marco Kreuzpaintner | Stars: Robert Stadlober, Kostja Ullmann, Miriam Morgenstern, Jürgen Tonkel
Votes: 14,503 | Gross: $0.10M
Although this film features a likable and handsome German cast, there are problems with the script that prevented me from finding the essential emotional involvement. There are a number of coming-out and coming-of-age movies that do better, without needing to ram the message home so forcefully. German with subtitles. 6/10
86. Côte d'Azur (2005)
96 min | Comedy, Musical, Romance
For summer vacation, Marc (Melki) and Béatrix (Tedeschi) take their two kids to the seaside house of Marc's youth, where their daughter takes up with a biker and their sons roams the beach with his best friend, who is in love with him. Things get steamier when Béatrix's lover Mathieu shows up, and Marc's old flame appears.
Directors: Olivier Ducastel, Jacques Martineau | Stars: Gilbert Melki, Valeria Bruni Tedeschi, Sabrina Seyvecou, Romain Torres
Votes: 2,100
Fun, light and worthwhile. This French semi-farce offers a fresh Mediterranean breeze to the gay film genre. Issues of sexuality are offered with tongue-in-cheek simplicity. The complexity of human sexual desire is well illustrated in colourful situations and humorous plot twists. This is a style that the French do well. French with subtitles 6/10
87. The Matthew Shepard Story (2002 TV Movie)
TV-14 | 88 min | Drama
Openly gay college student Matthew Shepard (Shane Meier) was murdered in an act of a hate crime with a senseless violence and such cruelty that attracted global attention. His death has changed the whole world forever.
Director: Roger Spottiswoode | Stars: Stockard Channing, Shane Meier, Wendy Crewson, Kristen Thomson
Votes: 1,586
Once this horrific crime had occurred, the wider story needed to recorded and shown to a wide audience. Stockard Channing and Sam Waterston are assets to the project. As a side-note, the jittery special effects used throughout became quite distracting. 6/10
88. Km. 0 (2000)
R | 108 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
A comedic look at the love lives of 14 different people and how they interconnect during one hot August afternoon around the Plaza del Sol in Madrid, Spain.
Directors: Yolanda García Serrano, Juan Luis Iborra | Stars: Concha Velasco, Georges Corraface, Silke, Carlos Fuentes
Votes: 1,811
A busy farce centred on the coincidental meeting of numerous characters in the heart of Madrid. Gay characters form a significant part of the ensemble and are depicted in a frank and meaningful way. Light and refreshingly fun. Spanish with subtitles. 6/10
89. Fighting Tommy Riley (2004)
R | 109 min | Drama, Mystery, Romance
An aging trainer and a young fighter, both in need of a second chance, team-up to overcome the demons of their past...and chase the dreams of their future.
Director: Eddie O'Flaherty | Stars: Eddie Jones, J.P. Davis, Christina Chambers, Diane Tayler
Votes: 835 | Gross: $0.01M
In the style of Gods and Monsters, this drama is set around the boxing ring. Eddie Jones is convincing as a fifty-something school teacher who takes on training a young boxer. Not without issues, but worth a look. 6/10
90. L'homme que j'aime (1997 TV Movie)
91 min | Drama, Romance, Sport
This is a combination coming out and first love story. The swimmer and diver Lucard is interested in attractive Martin. The film follows the characters' coming out with all its difficulties... See full summary »
Director: Stéphane Giusti | Stars: Jean-Michel Portal, Marcial Di Fonzo Bo, Mathilde Seigner, Vittoria Scognamiglio
Votes: 1,779
Made for French TV, this movie covers plenty of ground including coming-out, a love story and an AIDS drama. It has a quirky charm and is unusually structured. Notable is the portrayal of a presumably straight man falling for a gay man and embracing gay sex. French with subtitles. 6/10
91. My Life on Ice (2002)
102 min | Comedy, Drama, Sport
My Life on Ice presents the unique point of view of 16-year-old Etienne, a cute would-be ice skating champion living in provincial Rouen who is obsessed with filming his daily life with a ... See full summary »
Directors: Olivier Ducastel, Jacques Martineau | Stars: Ariane Ascaride, Jimmy Tavares, Jonathan Zaccaï, Hélène Surgère
Votes: 862
Coming-of-age story of a young gay man who films people with his video camera. It is unique because the movie is entirely shown through the lens of the boy's camera, documentary style, without narration. This technique certainly won't appeal to everyone, but I found it quite interesting. French with subtitles. 6/10
92. Adam & Steve (2005)
R | 99 min | Comedy, Drama, Music
Follows two New York city couples -- one heterosexual and one gay who explore the peaks and the valleys of their respective relationships.
Director: Craig Chester | Stars: Craig Chester, Malcolm Gets, Parker Posey, Chris Kattan
Votes: 3,276 | Gross: $0.31M
What a joy to find this funny, sharp-witted and incisive romantic comedy about the rocky road to love for a gay couple ... a committed, monogamous gay couple who look, talk and act like human beings! Many films have tried, this one comes incredibly close. 6/10
93. Clapham Junction (2007 TV Movie)
Not Rated | 99 min | Drama, Romance
A chronicle of 36 hours in the lives of a number of interconnected gay men in Clapham, South London.
Director: Adrian Shergold | Stars: Tom Beard, James Bellamy, Robin Berry, Rachael Blake
Votes: 3,082
Stereotypical and feeling dated, this exploration into the lives of various gay and bi men features powerful scenes involving a teenage boy and older man that are intimate and moving and also disturbing. 6/10
94. Urbania (2000)
R | 103 min | Drama
A series of urban legends take place around the life of a troubled man who is searching New York City for a mysterious stranger.
Director: Jon Shear | Stars: Dan Futterman, Scott Denny, Paige Turco, Sam Ball
Votes: 3,162 | Gross: $1.03M
An unusual and complicated movie, weaving urban legends into the main narrative. Follow the search for inner peace after an horrific experience leaves the lead character lonely and traumatized. Worth the work required. 6/10
95. Nico and Dani (2000)
R | 91 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
A Spanish coming of age story focusing on the antics of two 17 year olds, who have a posh beach house almost all to themselves one summer. This is also a summer of sexual awakenings.
Director: Cesc Gay | Stars: Fernando Ramallo, Jordi Vilches, Marieta Orozco, Esther Nubiola
Votes: 6,322 | Gross: $0.35M
Believable exploration of sexual awakening where two friends are headed in different directions yet manage to support each other and continue to value their friendship. European films really capture the authenticity of these situations. Spanish with subtitles. 6/10
96. The Broken Hearts Club: A Romantic Comedy (2000)
R | 94 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
An insight into the turbulent lives and loves of a gay clique based in Los Angeles.
Director: Greg Berlanti | Stars: Timothy Olyphant, Dean Cain, Zach Braff, Ben Weber
Votes: 8,188 | Gross: $1.74M
From the co-writer of "Dawsons Creek" comes this ensemble driven look into the lives and loves of a group of gay friends in West Hollywood. It offers diverse characters and an authenticity that is rare for the comedy genre. 6/10
97. Come Undone (2000)
R | 100 min | Drama, Romance
Mathieu, 18, spends the summer at his mother's summer house, in Brittany. On the beach, he meets Cédric, a boy his age. A love-story begins between the two boys.
Director: Sébastien Lifshitz | Stars: Jérémie Elkaïm, Stéphane Rideau, Marie Matheron, Dominique Reymond
Votes: 5,350 | Gross: $0.01M
Told as a series of flashbacks and avoiding a traditional narrative, this complex film offers an opportunity to think and feel. The story of two young men who meet and part, with an emphasis on the troubled emotional journey of one. French with subtitles. 6/10
98. Loggerheads (2005)
PG-13 | 95 min | Drama
Three overlapping stories of estranged families in three regions of North Carolina.
Director: Tim Kirkman | Stars: Kip Pardue, Michael Kelly, Tess Harper, Adrian Lee
Votes: 1,853 | Gross: $0.12M
A quiet, gently paced character study with solid character development and great imagery of North Carolina coastline. Three overlapping stories on different time lines require your attention, but eventually come together in a moving conclusion. Not perfect, but very solid. 6/10
99. Streamers (1983)
R | 118 min | Crime, Drama, War
Four young soldiers waiting to be shipped to Viet Nam deal with racial tension and their own intolerance when one soldier reveals he's gay.
Director: Robert Altman | Stars: Matthew Modine, Michael Wright, Mitchell Lichtenstein, David Alan Grier
Votes: 2,125
An intensely serious and heavy drama about the issues of homophobia and racism in the US Armed Forces. It's set in an army barracks where the men will at any moment be sent to Vietnam for active war duty . Adapted from a stage play, the camera never leaves the room, ensuring the viewer feels caged. 6/10
100. I Think I Do (1997)
Not Rated | 90 min | Comedy, Romance
A screwball comedy about a gay couple at a straight couple's wedding.
Director: Brian Sloan | Stars: Alexis Arquette, Christian Maelen, Luna Lauren Velez, Jamie Harrold
Votes: 1,669 | Gross: $0.34M
A well-intentioned gay romantic comedy with some clever moments. The characters are broadly drawn but still believable, and the plot stretches credibility but still manages to work.The movie has some amusing throwaway lines and doesn't tip-toe around the gay characters. 6/10
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