best lesbian movies - Abbey Badges
Best lesbian movies to stream — Celebrating queer love on screen
Best lesbian movies to stream — Celebrating queer love on screen
Now more than ever, lesbian stories are gaining trailblazing visibility in film, offering powerful, authentic, and heartfelt portrayals of love, identity, and resilience. Whether you're looking to celebrate romance, explore LGBTQ+ history, or simply enjoy compelling storytelling, here’s a curated list of some of the best lesbian movies you must watch this year — with options across genres, eras, and global perspectives.
Understanding the Context
Why These Lesbian Films Matter
Lesbian cinema has long been underrepresented, but recent years have seen an explosion of bold, diverse voices telling nuanced stories that reflect the complexity of lesbian life. These films range from heartfelt dramas and genre-blending thrillers to historical epics and intimate character studies — all centering women’s experiences and relationships.
Watching these movies isn’t just entertainment — it’s community, empowerment, and celebration.
Key Insights
Best Lesbian Movies to Watch in 2024
1. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
Genre: Art House / Dr
A masterpiece. This visually stunning French film follows a painter commissioned to paint an homage to a young woman — and what unfolds is a quiet, passionate love story set in 18th-century France. More than just romance, it’s a profound exploration of art, desire, and human connection. Universal acclaim for its emotional depth and cinematography.
2. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
Let’s clarify the above title — this masterpiece deserves its own spotlight. Directed by Céline Sciamma, Portrait of a Lady on Fire is lauded worldwide as one of the most beautiful lesbian narratives ever filmed. Its sensual visuals and tender storytelling redefine queerness in cinema. A must-watch for anyone seeking grace and emotional resonance.
3. Paris Is Waiting (2012)
A cinematic love letter to French queer culture, this film scenes a struggling artist in Paris who falls for a mysterious international passenger. Blending realism with poetic imagery, Paris Is Waiting is a joyful homage to bohemian life, longing, and connection.
4. Moonlight (2016)
Techically centered on a multiracial gay protagonist, Moonlight also profoundly resonates with lesbian themes through its deeply intimate moments and support of queer family bonds. While not strictly lesbian, its honest portrayal of masculine vulnerability intersects powerfully with broader LGBTQ+ narratives. A Payatational classic with universal heart.*
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5. Innocent (2023)
Mark Mylod’s gripping indie drama confronts Danish Lutheran identity and hidden queer desires. Set in 1980s Scandinavia, it explores quiet rebellion and forbidden love within a repressive community. The film’s restrained yet powerful storytelling delivers a searing emotional punch. Perfect for fans of character-driven, thought-provoking lesbian cinema.
6. The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018)
Based on a true story, this poignant drama follows a young lesbian sent to a conversion therapy camp. The film fearlessly examines trauma, resilience, and self-discovery, offering a sharp critique of systemic abuse within LGBTQ+ spaces. Essential viewing for its urgency and raw emotional truth.
7. Everybody Deserves Love (2023)
This heartwarming anthology film shines a spotlight on queer women’s lives across different U.S. communities. Featuring multiple lesbian narratives, it celebrates diversity in gender, race, and sexuality — a joyful affirmation of love in all its forms.
8. Paloma (2020)
A vibrant story about Paloma, a Dominican lesbian dancer caught between tradition and ambition, Paloma blends Latinx culture with fierce individuality. The film explores identity, body politics, and artistic passion, making it a vibrant voice in queer Latinx cinema.
Honorable Mentions
- Carol (2015) – A luminous period romance between two women navigating 1950s England, beautifully shot and emotionally charged.
- The Favourite (2018) – Though not strictly lesbian-focused, its layered portrayal of female desire includes subtle, meticulously crafted lesbian tension.
- Women Talking (2022) – Not a romantic lesbian film per se, but features a pivotal lesbian subplot within a powerful ensemble drama about moral accountability.
Where to Watch
Most of these films are available on premium streaming platforms like Criterion Channel, Fleischfilm, MUBI, or Prime Video with region-specific licensing. For the most up-to-date availability, check your preferred service or consider supporting LGBTQ+-owned cinemas in your area.
