Celebrating Pride Month: A Guide to LGBTQ Themes in Cinema and Streaming

Pride Month, observed in June, is a time to celebrate and embrace the LGBTQ community. This annual celebration offers a perfect moment to explore films, TV series, and plays that embrace and celebrate the rich diversity within the LGBTQ spectrum. From historical dramas to dynamic series, there's a wealth of content that reflects the resilience and love of the LGBTQ community. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most beloved works that have brought LGBTQ stories to life, reflecting on their impact and charm.

Fictional Gems

Sense8 (TV Series): Often considered one of the most groundbreaking series for its portrayal of the LGBTQ community, Sense8 stands out for its dynamic and inclusive storytelling. Created by the acclaimed writers Alex Kurtzman and J. J. Abrams, Sense8 follows the lives of eight characters from around the world who are mysteriously connected by way of telepathic telekinetic powers. Beyond the fantastical elements, the series delves deeply into themes of love, family, and personal growth, which often center around characters from the LGBTQ spectrum. One episode, for instance, features a pan-sexual orgy scene that celebrates the diversity of human relationships. Even nominally straight male characters engage in joyful interactions with others, showcasing the series' commitment to queer representation.

Classic Plays and TV Shows

Angels in America (Play): Federally awarded as one of the greatest American plays of the 20th century, Angels in America is not to be missed. Written by Tony Kushner, this epic two-part play explores the personal struggles of several Central Park West set characters against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis. The play addresses themes of love, loss, and the societal impact of the AIDS epidemic, making it a poignant and powerful exploration of the LGBTQ experience. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in LGBTQ theater and literature.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (TV Series): One of the first mainstream TV shows to feature a major LGBTQ character, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, while not perfect, set a groundbreaking precedent. Season six, in particular, saw the development of Cordelia, the new sister of the Scooby Gang, who developed a romantic relationship with Anya. This storyline was not without controversy, with the couple's relationship ultimately being a tragic one. However, it was a significant step in mainstream TV series adapting to include LGBTQ themes.

Recent Productions Worth Watching

Riverdale (TV Series): While not without controversy itself, the show has slowly been making strides in LGBTQ representation. The series has introduced characters like Jughead’s boyfriend Joshua, making it a more inclusive space. Similarly, The Half of It (TV Series) takes a more contemporary look at LGBTQ themes, following a straight girl who begins working as a tutor for a gay boy, leading to complex romantic entanglements. Another notable inclusion is Glee, which has become a household name for its diverse and progressive storyline, featuring characters like Sam Evans, who is open about his bisexuality.

Documentaries

TCM Turner Classic Movies is hosting a series of documentary films this Pride Month, which are a fantastic way to explore the rich history and representation of LGBTQ stories in film. On June 28th and 29th, TCM will show six excellent documentaries in a row, each with its own unique perspective:

Common Threads: Stories from the AIDS Quilt: This film tells the story behind the AIDS Memorial Quilt, a massive project created by individuals and communities to raise awareness about the AIDS epidemic. The Celluloid Closet: A historical account of LGBTQ representation in cinema, including interviews with filmmakers, actors, and historians. Paragraph 175: This documentary explores the persecution of LGBTQ individuals in Nazi Germany, highlighting the early cries for gay rights. The Times of Harvey Milk: A cinematic biography of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in the American history of a major U.S. city, and his tragic assassination. Word is Out: From the 1970s, this film was groundbreaking for featuring interviews with gay and lesbian individuals during a time when such engagements were highly controversial. Before Stonewall: A historical look at LGBTQ life before the Stonewall riots in 1969, providing context for the community's struggles and triumphs.

The list of documentaries continues to grow, with streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video offering lineups specifically themed around Pride Month, showcasing a wide array of films that celebrate and explore the rich tapestry of the LGBTQ community.

As Pride Month approaches, we invite you to explore these and other LGBTQ themed productions. Whether it’s a play, a richly woven TV series, or a fascinating documentary, there’s never been a better time to celebrate and champion the stories that make our community shine.