Entertainment*
essential viewing

30 of the best films with Black LGBTQ+ representation

By Ian Helms June 19, 2024 at 8:00am

With hundreds of Black LGBTQ+ movies listed on Wikipedia, finding the gems can be a challenge. But don’t fear! We’ve dug through countless Reddit threads, IMDb pages, and our own streaming history to bring you a curated list of must-watch films.

Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt drama, a compelling documentary, or a classic that’s stood the test of time, this list has something for everyone. These 30 movies feature Black queer characters in leading roles or significant supporting roles, ensuring you’ll find a film that resonates no matter your mood.

Dive in and discover stories that entertain, enlighten, and celebrate the richness of Black LGBTQ+ experiences…

2. Tangerine (2015)

Shot entirely on an iPhone, this film follows a transgender sex worker as she discovers her boyfriend and pimp has been cheating on her.

3. Paris is Burning (1990)

A mega-influential documentary that provides an intimate look at the drag ball culture in New York City, focusing on African American and Latino LGBTQ+ communities.

4. Set It Off (1996)

This action-packed film follows four women who turn to bank robbery to escape their economic struggles. Queen Latifah stars as Cleo, a bold lesbian character.

5. The Skinny (2012)

Five Brown University alumni reunite in New York City for a tumultuous Pride weekend, navigating relationships and personal struggles.

6. Blackbird (2014)

A deeply emotional story about a young African American singer struggling with his sexuality in a small Southern Baptist town.

7. The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson (2017)

This documentary investigates the mysterious death of Marsha P. Johnson, a transgender activist and pioneer in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

8. Rafiki (2018)

A tender love story between two young women in Nairobi, Kenya, that challenges societal norms and family expectations.

9. Spiral (2019)

A gripping psychological thriller about a same-sex couple who move to a small town with their daughter, only to uncover a sinister secret.

10. Disclosure (2020)

An eye-opening documentary that examines Hollywood’s portrayal of transgender people and the impact of these stories on transgender lives.

Related*

11. Moonlight (2016)

This Oscar-winning film follows the life of a young Black man from childhood to adulthood as he grapples with his identity and sexuality.

12. Pariah (2011)

A poignant coming-of-age story about a Brooklyn teenager embracing her identity as a lesbian while navigating her conservative family’s expectations.

13. Naz & Maalik (2015)

A nuanced film about two closeted Muslim teens in Brooklyn whose relationship is tested by surveillance and societal pressures.

14. B-Boy Blues (2021)

Based on the novel by James Earl Hardy, this film explores the romance between a journalist and a bike messenger in Harlem.

15. American Fiction (2023)

A satirical drama that tackles themes of race and sexuality through the story of a Black writer struggling with the industry’s expectations.

17. Black Is… Black Ain’t (1994)

A documentary that explores Black identity, addressing the intersections of race, gender, HIV/AIDS, and sexuality.

18. Portrait of Jason (1967)

A raw and candid documentary featuring a night in the life of Jason Holliday, a Black gay hustler and aspiring cabaret performer.

19. Tongues Untied (1989)

A groundbreaking film by Marlon Riggs that combines poetry, personal testimony, and performance to explore Black gay identity.

20. The Aggressives (2005)

A documentary that explores the lives of six women who present as masculine, shedding light on their experiences in the LGBTQ+ community.

21. Kinky Boots (2005)

A feel-good film about a struggling shoe factory saved by a drag queen’s idea to produce fabulous footwear for performers.

22. Car Wash (1976)

A day in the life of a Los Angeles car wash, featuring an ensemble cast and a notable performance by Antonio Fargas as a flamboyant gay character.

23. The Watermelon Woman (1996)

The first feature film directed by an out Black lesbian, this film follows a young filmmaker exploring the life of a forgotten Black actress from the 1930s.

Related*

24. Kiki (2016)

A vibrant documentary that follows LGBTQ+ youth of color as they prepare for the Kiki ballroom scene in New York City.

25. Mississippi Damned (2009)

A powerful drama about three poor Black kids in rural Mississippi dealing with family trauma, secrets, and personal aspirations.

26. Daughters of the Dust (1991)

A visually stunning film about a Gullah family in 1902 South Carolina, featuring complex portrayals of Black women’s lives and relationships.

27. Looking for Langston (1989)

A poetic exploration of the life and legacy of Langston Hughes, blending archival footage and fictional scenes.

28. Passing (2021)

This film adaptation of Nella Larsen’s novel explores the reunion of two childhood friends who grapple with their racial identities and hidden desires.

29. Check It (2016)

A documentary about a Black gay gang in Washington, D.C., that uses fashion and performance to create a sense of community and survival.

30. Jewel’s Catch One (2016)

A documentary about the legendary Los Angeles nightclub that served as a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community during the AIDS crisis and beyond.

Celebrating Black, queer cinema

This collection of films provides a deeper understanding of the diverse and rich experiences within the Black LGBTQ+ community. Each movie offers a unique perspective that not only entertains but also educates and celebrates the resilience, love, and courage of Black queer individuals.

Subscribe to the Queerty newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest news, events, and releases in the LGBTQ+ community.

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Once Monthly Annually

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated

2 Comments*

  • Kangol2

    Some great films on this list.

  • MISTERJETT

    HOLIDAY HEART

Comments are closed.

More in Entertainment*

Latest*