As autumn settles in and the movie industry navigates ongoing strikes by actors and writers, there’s one thing we can count on: a treasure trove of must-see queer cinema heading our way. Despite delays in production, the LGBTQ+ community can anticipate a wave of vibrant and diverse films set to grace the silver screen.
A Glimpse into LGBTQ+ Cinema
The year 2023 has already gifted us with some remarkable LGBTQ+ films like “Theater Camp” and “Bottoms,” but as we step into Oscar season, the excitement continues to build. Here are ten LGBTQ+ movies to look out for in the last few months of the year and details on when and where you can catch them:
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe: Adapted from the popular YA novel, this film delves into the story of two Mexican-American teenage boys who form an instantaneous connection in 1987 El Paso. The movie made its theatrical debut on September 8.
Cassandro: Starring Gael Garcia Bernal, this biopic explores the life of queer Luchador Saúl Armendáriz, better known as Cassandro, a flamboyant exótico wrestler who performs in drag. Catch it in limited theaters on September 15 and on Amazon Prime Video from September 22.
Dicks: The Musical: Based on the off-Broadway comedy musical “F*cking Identical Twins,” Josh Sharp and Aaron Jackson headline this comedy about business rivals who discover they are identical twin brothers. With an ensemble cast including Megan Mullally, Megan Thee Stallion, Bowen Yang, and Nathan Lane, it premieres in select theaters on October 6 and nationwide on October 20.
Nyad: Annette Benning leads in this biopic portraying legendary long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad, with supporting roles by Jodie Foster and Rhys Ifans. Initially, it screens in select theaters on October 20, followed by a Netflix release on November 3.
Rustin: Colman Domingo takes the spotlight in this biopic, shedding light on the life of Bayard Rustin, a prominent Black, gay civil rights leader instrumental in organizing the 1963 March on Washington. You can catch it in select theaters on November 3 and on Netflix from November 17.
Next Goal Wins: Directed by Taika Waititi, this film is a sports drama based on a 2014 documentary. It follows Dutch-American soccer coach Thomas Rongen, portrayed by Michael Fassbender, as he guides the American Samoa national team. A notable aspect of the film is the inclusion of nonbinary actor Kaimana as Jaiyah Saelua, the first nonbinary and trans woman player in a FIFA World Cup qualifier. Look out for it on November 17.
Saltburn: Directed by Emerald Fennell, this mid-2000s thriller follows the story of a college student infatuated with a wealthy schoolmate. The narrative unfolds into a world of eccentricity and depravity. Initially in limited theaters on November 24, it expands widely on December 1.
Eileen: Set in 1960s Boston, this thriller explores a parasitic relationship between two women working at a juvenile detention center, portrayed by Thomasin McKenzie and Anne Hathaway. It releases in limited theaters on December 1 and expands on December 8.
All of Us Strangers: Starring Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal, this romantic fantasy follows a screenwriter in London who embarks on a mysterious relationship with his neighbor. Simultaneously, he discovers his long-dead parents alive and unchanged in age. Catch it on December 22.
The Color Purple: This big-budget musical adaptation of the beloved Alice Walker novel boasts an ensemble cast featuring Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks, and more. The film hits theaters on December 25, promising a festive cinematic experience.
With a vibrant array of LGBTQ+ films set to grace screens, the end of 2023 holds the promise of extraordinary storytelling and diverse representation. Stay tuned for these cinematic gems that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community in all its glory.
