I recently went to our super cool NubianNewYorkers group, which has a whopping 32,000 members, and I asked them for their absolute favorite movies with awesome gay plots and characters.
And guess what?
I got some seriously amazing responses! I'm about to spill all the juicy details on these fantastic flicks. But hey, if you know of any other movie that deserves a shoutout, drop its name in the comments below.
Let's dive into a world of movie magic and LGBTQ+ awesomeness together!
MOONLIGHT
- Moonlight is a powerful and visually stunning drama film that was directed by Barry Jenkins and released on October 21, 2016. The film features brilliant performances from actors such as Mahershala Ali, Naomie Harris, and Trevante Rhodes.
Moonlight received critical acclaim for its portrayal of a young black man's journey of self-discovery and was awarded numerous accolades, including three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor for Mahershala Ali, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Jenkins and Tarell Alvin McCraney, on whose unpublished play the film was based.
It also won Best Motion Picture – Drama at the Golden Globe Awards and the People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Naz & Malik:
"Naz & Malik" (on Hulu) is a 2015 American independent drama film directed by Jay Dockendorf. The film follows the lives of two closeted Muslim teens, Naz and Malik, living in Brooklyn, New York.
The boys spend their days working at a local convenience store and exploring their love for each other in secret. However, when they are discovered by the FBI and questioned about their involvement with an extremist group, their relationship is put to the test.
The film explores themes of identity, religion, sexuality, and cultural clashes as Naz and Malik struggle to navigate their way through a society that does not fully accept them for who they are. The film is a poignant and timely exploration of the intersection of race, sexuality, and religion in contemporary America.
Six Degrees of Separation:
"Six Degrees of Separation" is a visually captivating and emotionally layered film that explores the intricacies of human connection and self-discovery.
Set against a vibrant backdrop of art, culture, and high society, the movie delves into the lives of complex characters whose paths intersect through a fascinating web of relationships.
At its core, the film beautifully weaves in a compelling exploration of the gay experience, showcasing the characters' struggles, desires, and the power of acceptance.
Bwoy:
"Bwoy" is a cinematic tour de force that explores the complexities of identity, desire, and love. Directed by John G. Young and starring Anthony Rapp and Jimmy Brooks.
This film tells the story of a man struggling to come to terms with his sexuality in a culture that often views homosexuality with suspicion and disdain.
Set against the lush backdrop of Jamaica, Bwoy is a visually stunning film that transports viewers to a world of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant street scenes, and lush tropical forests. But beneath the beauty of the island paradise lies a deep undercurrent of tension and repression, as our protagonist, Brad, grapples with his growing attraction to another man.
The film expertly explores the challenges that gay men face in conservative societies, from the fear of rejection to the threat of violence. But it also celebrates the power of love and connection, as Brad embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns to embrace his true self.
With its gripping storyline, stunning cinematography, and standout performances from the entire cast, Bwoy is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It's a moving and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be gay in a world that often seeks to silence our voices and erase our identities.
Cruising:
"Cruising" is a 1980 crime thriller film directed by William Friedkin and starring Al Pacino.
It follows an undercover police officer, Steve Burns (Pacino), who is assigned to investigate a series of murders in the New York City gay leather scene. As Burns immerses himself in the subculture, he becomes increasingly torn between his duties as a cop and his own identity.
The film explores themes of sexuality, identity, and the dark side of human behavior.
Carol:
"Carol" (2015) - revolves around the romantic relationship between two women, Carol and Therese, in the 1950s.
The film delicately portrays their love story amidst societal challenges and the complexities of being gay during that era. It's a poignant exploration of identity, love, and acceptance in a time when such relationships faced significant societal taboos.
THE WOUND:
"The Wound" is a gripping and intense drama directed by John Trengove. The film follows the story of Xolani, a lonely factory worker who returns to his rural hometown in South Africa to participate in an ancient Xhosa circumcision ritual.
As a mentor to a group of teenage boys, Xolani is tasked with overseeing their initiation into manhood. However, when he takes a young initiate under his wing, a forbidden love affair unfolds, forcing Xolani to confront the dangerous and complex dynamics of tradition, masculinity, and sexuality.
With powerful performances and stunning cinematography, "The Wound" explores the deep-seated tensions between tradition and modernity, desire and duty, in a world where ancient rites collide with contemporary realities.
BAD EDUCATION:
"Bad Education" directed by Pedro Almodóvar, revolves around a complex narrative that weaves together themes of identity, deception, and the haunting impact of the past. At its core, it explores the relationship between two childhood friends, Ignacio and Enrique, whose lives take unexpected turns as they navigate love, art, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction.
The gay plot in "Bad Education" is intricately intertwined with the broader storyline. Ignacio, played by Gael García Bernal, is a pivotal character whose journey explores the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in a society marked by repression and secrecy. As the narrative unfolds, the film skillfully delves into the complexities of Ignacio's identity, capturing both the passion and vulnerability of his experiences.
Almodóvar employs his signature style, incorporating elements of melodrama and film noir, to create a visually stunning and emotionally charged exploration of sexuality. The cinematography and thematic elements contribute to a rich tapestry that immerses the audience in the characters' struggles and desires.
Without giving away the ending, "Bad Education" remains a compelling cinematic experience that invites viewers to question the nature of truth, the consequences of suppressing one's true self, and the profound impact of personal and societal expectations on individual lives.
THE INSPECTION:
"The Inspection" - A young, gay Black man with few options for his future decides to join the Marines, willing to do whatever it takes to prove himself to his estranged mother and triumph in a system that would otherwise cast him aside.
However, even as he battles deep-seated prejudice and the grueling rigor of basic training, he finds unexpected camaraderie, strength and support in this new community, giving him a hard-won sense of belonging that shapes his identity and forever changes his life.
Release date: December 2, 2022 (USA)
Director: Elegance Bratton
FINDING ME:
"Finding Me" (Amazon prime) is a 2009 independent romantic drama film directed by Roger Omeus Jr. The film follows the life of Faybien Allen, a young gay man living in New York City, who is struggling to find himself and his place in the world.
Faybien's search for identity and love takes him on a journey of self-discovery as he navigates his relationships with his best friend, his ex-boyfriend, and a new love interest. Along the way, he confronts issues of family, religion, and societal expectations, all while trying to stay true to himself.
The film explores themes of self-acceptance, personal growth, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in a society that often fails to understand or accept them. Ultimately, "Finding Me" is a hopeful and uplifting portrayal of the power of love and self-discovery in overcoming life's obstacles.
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