TL;DR
- Explore 9 unrated LGBTQ+ films
- These films defy MPAA ratings
- Discover where to watch them
- Filmmakers refuse to compromise
- Unflinching depictions of queer life
When it comes to LGBTQ+ cinema, the MPAA has a notorious reputation for slapping films with NC-17 ratings that can spell disaster for box office success. But some brave filmmakers have said, “Not today, Satan!” and opted to skip the rating system altogether. Instead of compromising their artistic vision, they’ve released their films as unrated, showcasing the raw and real side of queer life. Here are nine unrated LGBTQ+ films that you absolutely need to check out.
First up, we have Shortbus by John Cameron Mitchell. This dramedy dives deep into the lives of sexually diverse New Yorkers who connect in an underground artistic salon. The catch? The actors are actually having sex on screen, which would have earned it an NC-17 rating. Mitchell argues that the sex in his film is “de-eroticized,” and honestly, who wouldn’t want to see a film that pushes boundaries like that? Where to watch: PlutoTV.
Next on the list is Y tu mamá también, a beautiful coming-of-age story about two best friends, Julio and Tenoch, who embark on a summer road trip with a stunning older woman. This film faced serious challenges in the U.S. distribution due to its steamy threesome scene and other sexual content. The MPAA wanted cuts, but the filmmakers said, “No thanks!” Where to watch: Netflix.
Then there’s Rotting in the Sun, a pitch-black tragicomedy that doesn’t shy away from depicting the realities of gay sex and hook-up culture. With plenty of full-frontal male nudity and unsimulated sex, this film is a raw look at life in the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a wild ride that you won’t want to miss. Where to watch: Currently unavailable.
Below Her Mouth is another must-see, often hailed as one of the most erotic lesbian films ever made. With its steamy tribbing and strap-on scenes, this film tells the story of a fashion editor who has a passionate affair with a female roofer. Talk about a plot twist! It’s a film that definitely would have landed an NC-17 rating if it had gone through the MPAA. Where to watch: Currently unavailable.
Don’t forget The Big Gay Musical, a delightful indie film that follows two men starring in a blasphemous musical about Adam and Eve. This low-budget gem decided to go unrated to save on marketing costs. It’s a fun, campy ride that you’ll want to watch with friends. Where to watch: Currently unavailable.
Stranger by the Lake is a French thriller that explores themes of loneliness and desire. With graphic depictions of unsimulated sex, it’s a haunting tale that’s more than just about sex. It’s about the complexities of love and attraction. Where to watch: Amazon Prime.
Next, we have I Want Your Love, which blurs the lines between arthouse cinema and adult films. This film follows a man’s bittersweet final night in San Francisco, filled with partying and reconnecting with ex-lovers. It’s a poignant exploration of relationships and sexuality. Where to watch: Currently unavailable.
Interior. Leather. Bar. takes a unique approach by reconstructing lost scenes from the 1980 film Cruising. This film explores underground gay culture and features explicit content that would have definitely earned it an NC-17 rating. The filmmakers decided to skip the MPAA altogether. Where to watch: Currently unavailable.
Lastly, Show Me Love is a sapphic coming-of-age story that, while not explicit, faced fears of an NC-17 rating due to its frank discussions about sex and swearing. It’s a classic that captures the struggles of teen girls feeling like outcasts. Where to watch: Currently unavailable.
These films are just a glimpse into the world of unrated LGBTQ+ cinema, where filmmakers refuse to compromise their vision for the sake of ratings. So grab your popcorn and get ready to dive into these boundary-pushing films. For more on unrated queer films, check out our article on Unrated Queer Films You Need Now and for some NC-17 options, don’t miss NC-17 Queer Films You Must Watch. Happy viewing!
https://www.netflix.com/watch/60023237?source=35
https://www.netflix.com/watch/60023237?source=35"