It’s been less than a year since Section 377 was partly struck down, and homosexuality was decriminalised in India. Long before that and since then, the LGBTQ+ community celebrated their identity.
Recently, national sprinter Dutee Chand opened up about her same-sex relationship with a woman from her hometown. In the past, Lilly Singh AKA iiSuperwomanii, also publicly embraced her bisexuality. Pop culture celebrated Pride by consciously portraying LGBTQ+ characters in a sensitive way. (Read: Karan Mehra’s character in Made In Heaven)
This Pride month, we asked the lovely ladies at Malini’s Girl Tribe for their favourite LGBTQ+ films. And they had some wonderful recommendations. So, whether you’re looking to discover a new favourite, or simply join in on the celebrations…make some popcorn, sit back and binge your way through these films. Happy Pride, you guys!
1. Carol
Based on Patricia Highsmith’s lesbian romance novel, this movie is the perfect way to kick off your Pride celebrations. Starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, it explores the romance between two women. Their chance encounter at a department store around Christmas and what follows, makes it one film you shouldn’t miss!
2. Happy Together
Lai and his boyfriend Ho, set off on a trip from Hong Kong to seek a better life. Soon after they arrive in Argentina, their relationship turns sour. Which results in bitterness and loneliness for both. Wong Kar-wai won the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1997 for this wonderful queer romance.
3. Blue Is The Warmest Colour
The film follows the journey of a French teenager who meets a mysterious art student with blue hair. As she forms a deep, emotional and passionate sexual connection with her lover, she also deals with seeking herself, asserting her individual identity, losing herself, and growing up (and all that implies).
4. Boys Don’t Cry
Based on the real-life story of Brandon Teena, the film stars Hillary Swank as the female-born trans man who attempts to find love and friendship after moving to a new town but becomes a target for a vicious hate crime. Watch it for the different themes explored: love and queer relationships, violence against people from the LGBTQ+ community and more.
5. Imagine Me And You
Despite being happily married to her husband, Rachel (Piper Perabo) feels drawn to Luce (Lena Headey). She finds herself falling for her, and questioning her sexual orientation. Watch it for the beautifully explored themes of gender identity and self-acceptance.
Do you have any other recommendations on must-watch LGBTQ+ films? Please share with us in the comments below!
To be a part of more such conversations, join the tribe here.