Best Lesbian Movies

Lesbian movies have become an important genre in cinema, offering representation, visibility, and a chance for LGBTQ+ individuals to see their stories told on screen. From heartwarming romances to powerful dramas, these films explore a range of emotions, identities, and experiences, celebrating love in all its forms. In this article, we’ll look at some of the best lesbian movies, showcasing both classic and modern films that have touched hearts, challenged norms, and ignited important conversations.

1. Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)

One of the most iconic lesbian films in recent history, Blue Is the Warmest Color (originally La Vie d’Adèle) is a French coming-of-age story about the passionate relationship between two young women. Directed by Abdellatif Kechiche, the film follows the emotional and physical journey of Adèle, a teenage girl, as she falls in love with Emma, a vibrant, blue-haired artist. The movie is raw and intense, capturing the complexities of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.

Why It’s Great:

• The film beautifully portrays the depth of romantic relationships and the struggles of understanding one’s identity.
• Strong performances by Léa Seydoux and Adèle Exarchopoulos, whose chemistry is unforgettable.
• Awarded the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

2. The Handmaiden (2016)

The Handmaiden, directed by Park Chan-wook, is a visually stunning South Korean psychological thriller with a twisty plot and deeply nuanced characters. The film tells the story of a young woman, Sook-hee, who is hired as a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress, Hideko. However, the story soon unravels into a web of deception, passion, and betrayal as the two women fall in love.

Why It’s Great:

• A captivating blend of mystery, thriller, and romance with striking cinematography.
• Complex and layered characters with strong performances from Kim Tae-ri and Ha Jung-woo.
• A unique, historical setting that highlights themes of class, power, and love.

3. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

Portrait of a Lady on Fire (originally Portrait de la jeune fille en feu) is a French historical drama by Céline Sciamma. Set in the late 18th century, the film tells the story of a forbidden love affair between Marianne, a painter, and Héloïse, a young woman who is being prepared for an arranged marriage. The film’s beautiful cinematography, moving performances, and slow-burn romance make it a masterpiece in lesbian cinema.

Why It’s Great:

• A gorgeous exploration of passion, desire, and the challenges faced by women in history.
• Strong, intimate performances from Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel.
• Stunning visuals and a melancholic yet hopeful narrative about love and identity.

4. Disobedience (2017)

Disobedience, directed by Sebastián Lelio, is based on the novel by Naomi Alderman. The film follows Ronit, a woman who returns to her Orthodox Jewish community in London after the death of her father. Upon her return, she rekindles a romance with her childhood friend Esti, who is now married to Ronit’s cousin. The film delves into themes of faith, sexuality, and personal freedom.

Why It’s Great:

• A delicate portrayal of a woman struggling to reconcile her sexuality with her religious upbringing.
• Powerful performances by Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams.
• A thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between identity, religion, and love.

5. The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018)

The Miseducation of Cameron Post, directed by Desiree Akhavan, tells the story of Cameron, a teenage girl sent to a gay conversion therapy camp after being caught in a relationship with her best friend. The film focuses on Cameron’s struggle with her sexuality and the oppressive environment at the camp, but it also celebrates the resilience of love and friendship.

Why It’s Great:

• A candid and compassionate look at the horrors of gay conversion therapy.
• Featuring breakout performances by Chloë Grace Moretz and Sasha Lane.
• A story of empowerment and resistance against societal norms.

6. But I’m a Cheerleader (1999)

A cult classic, But I’m a Cheerleader is a satirical comedy directed by Jamie Babbit. The film follows Megan, a popular cheerleader who is sent to a gay conversion camp by her parents after they suspect she’s a lesbian. As she navigates her time at the camp, she meets a fellow camper named Graham, and they begin a love affair that challenges their perceptions of themselves and their identities.

Why It’s Great:

• A fun and lighthearted take on lesbian identity and societal expectations.
• Hilarious and over-the-top, yet with moments of sincere emotional depth.
• A standout performance by Natasha Lyonne as the lead character, Megan.

7. Kissing Jessica Stein (2001)

Kissing Jessica Stein is a romantic comedy that tells the story of Jessica, a single woman in New York City who, after a series of failed relationships with men, decides to explore her sexuality by dating a woman named Helen. The film navigates Jessica’s journey of self-discovery and her evolving feelings for Helen.

Why It’s Great:

• A charming, light-hearted romantic comedy about self-exploration.
• The chemistry between the lead characters, played by Jennifer Westfeldt and Heather Juergensen, is genuine and endearing.
• A refreshing take on lesbian relationships in a mainstream romantic comedy format.

8. A Secret (2007)

A Secret (original title Un secret) is a French drama directed by Philippe Lioret. The film tells the story of François, a man who uncovers a family secret: his mother was involved in a romantic relationship with another woman during World War II. The movie explores themes of family, identity, and the struggles of lesbian love during a time of intense societal repression.

Why It’s Great:

• A poignant and heartfelt story set against the backdrop of historical events.
• A powerful narrative about love, secrecy, and the courage to be true to oneself.
• A remarkable performance by Cécile de France.

9. Cloudburst (2011)

Cloudburst, directed by Thom Fitzgerald, is a heartwarming film about two elderly women, Stella and Dot, who have been in a relationship for decades. When Stella is placed in a nursing home, the couple embarks on a journey to Nova Scotia to get married legally. The film is a celebration of love at any age, with humor and emotional depth.

Why It’s Great:

• A touching and funny story of lifelong love.
• Great performances by Olympia Dukakis and Brenda Fricker.
• A feel-good film with a strong message about love and the right to marry.

10. Love, Simon (2018)

While not strictly a lesbian movie, Love, Simon is a groundbreaking film in LGBTQ+ cinema that focuses on the journey of a teenage boy named Simon who is coming out. The film also includes a significant subplot about Simon’s friend, Leah, who struggles with her own feelings for her best friend. The movie portrays LGBTQ+ relationships with warmth and humor.

Why It’s Great:

• A trailblazing film for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream cinema.
• Features a diverse and inclusive portrayal of teenage love and coming out.
• The positive and hopeful message that love can be found in unexpected places.

Celebrating Lesbian Love on Screen

These films not only highlight the beauty and complexities of lesbian love but also offer a wide range of experiences that resonate with audiences. Whether you’re looking for romance, drama, or comedy, there is a lesbian movie out there for everyone. By celebrating love in all its forms, these films help to create visibility, understanding, and acceptance of lesbian relationships, both on-screen and in real life.