Unveiling the best lesbian movies and tv shows
Delve into a world of compelling narratives and authentic representation with our curated list of lesbian movies and TV shows. From period dramas to modern romances, these stories offer a diverse and captivating look at the lesbian experience.



The landscape of lesbian cinema and television has blossomed in recent years, offering a rich tapestry of stories that resonate with audiences seeking authentic representation and compelling narratives. While earlier works often relegated lesbian characters to the sidelines or relied on tired tropes, contemporary productions boldly place these stories front and center, exploring the complexities of love, identity, and societal acceptance with nuance and depth.
Productions like "The Handmaiden" and "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" have garnered critical acclaim for their exquisite cinematography, evocative storytelling, and passionate portrayals of same-sex relationships. These films, set in different historical periods, offer unique perspectives on the challenges and joys of lesbian love, capturing the intensity of desire and the power of connection in visually stunning ways.
On the television front, series like "Gentleman Jack" and "The L Word: Generation Q" have carved out a space for ongoing exploration of lesbian lives. These shows provide a platform for diverse characters and storylines, tackling issues ranging from workplace discrimination to family dynamics with honesty and humor.
This curated list represents a selection of the most impactful and engaging lesbian movies and TV shows, each offering a unique lens through which to view the lesbian experience. From heart-wrenching dramas to lighthearted comedies, these stories are sure to entertain, enlighten, and leave a lasting impression.
13. Vida (2018)
Vida is a drama series that centers on two Mexican-American sisters, Emma and Lyn, who return to their childhood neighborhood in East Los Angeles after the death of their mother. Upon their return, they discover that their mother was secretly married to a woman named Eddy, who still lives in their family home. As the sisters grapple with this revelation, they must also confront their own identities and relationships, while navigating the challenges of gentrification and cultural preservation in their community. 'Vida' is praised for its authentic representation of Latinx culture and its nuanced exploration of queer identity and family dynamics. The series offers a look at the complexities of sexuality, gender, and cultural heritage within a close-knit community.

12. The L Word: Generation Q (2019)
The L Word: Generation Q is a sequel series to the original 'The L Word,' which aired from 2004 to 2009. The series follows a new group of LGBTQ+ women living in Los Angeles, as well as some returning characters from the original series. The show explores a range of contemporary issues, including identity, sexuality, relationships, and career aspirations. While 'Generation Q' aims to be more diverse and inclusive than its predecessor, it has received mixed reviews for its writing and character development. Some of the original cast members reprise their roles, bridging the gap between the two series and offering a sense of continuity for longtime fans.

11. Below Her Mouth (2017)
Below Her Mouth is a Canadian romantic drama that tells the story of a passionate affair between two women. Jasmine, a successful fashion editor, meets Dallas, a roofer, at a bar and the two quickly become infatuated with each other. Despite being in a committed relationship, Jasmine finds herself unable to resist Dallas's charms and the two embark on an intense and sexually charged affair. 'Below Her Mouth' is known for its explicit and intimate scenes, which were filmed with an all-female crew to create a safe and empowering environment for the actors. While the film has been praised for its portrayal of female desire, it has also been criticized for its lack of plot and character development.

10. The Favourite (2018)
Yorgos Lanthimos's The Favourite is a darkly comedic period drama set in the court of Queen Anne in 18th-century England. The film centers on the power struggle between two cousins, Sarah Churchill and Abigail Masham, as they compete for the Queen's attention and favor. With its sharp wit, outrageous costumes, and brilliant performances from Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, and Rachel Weisz, 'The Favourite' is a deliciously subversive and entertaining take on historical drama. While not explicitly lesbian, the film explores the complex and intimate relationships between women in positions of power, blurring the lines between friendship, love, and manipulation. The film won Olivia Colman an Academy Award for Best Actress.

9. The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018)
The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a coming-of-age drama based on the novel by Emily M. Danforth. Set in 1993, the film follows Cameron Post, a teenage girl who is sent to a gay conversion therapy camp after being caught with another girl. At the camp, Cameron befriends other LGBTQ+ teens and together they resist the camp's oppressive methods and find solace in their shared experiences. The film is a powerful and moving indictment of conversion therapy and a celebration of queer identity and resilience. With its sensitive portrayal of its characters and its message of hope, 'The Miseducation of Cameron Post' is a important and timely film. Actress Chloë Grace Moretz delivers a compelling performance as Cameron.

8. Her Story (2016)
Her Story is a web series that explores the lives of trans women in Los Angeles. The series follows Violet, a writer, and Allie, a journalist, as they navigate the challenges of dating, career, and identity. When the two women meet, they find themselves drawn to each other and begin to explore the possibility of a relationship. 'Her Story' is a groundbreaking series that provides a platform for trans voices and perspectives. The series is praised for its authentic representation of trans women and its nuanced exploration of the issues they face. Fun fact: 'Her Story' was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Short Form Comedy or Drama Series, marking a significant milestone for trans representation in television.

7. Feel Good (2020)
Feel Good is a semi-autobiographical comedy-drama series created by and starring Mae Martin. The show follows Mae, a Canadian comedian living in London, as she navigates her relationships, struggles with addiction, and explores her gender identity. When Mae starts a new relationship with George, a woman who has previously only dated men, their connection is tested by George's reluctance to come out and Mae's own insecurities. 'Feel Good' is a funny, poignant, and honest exploration of love, identity, and mental health in the modern world. The series is praised for its authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships and its nuanced exploration of complex issues. Did you know that Mae Martin uses her own life experiences and comedic style to create a relatable and engaging story.

6. Tipping the Velvet (2002)
Tipping the Velvet is a British historical drama miniseries adapted from Sarah Waters' novel of the same name. Set in Victorian England, the story follows Nan Astley, a young woman who falls in love with a male impersonator named Kitty Butler. Nan follows Kitty to London and becomes her dresser, but their relationship soon deepens into a passionate affair. When their love is threatened by societal constraints and personal betrayals, Nan must navigate the complexities of her identity and find her own path to happiness. With its compelling characters, lush costumes, and evocative atmosphere, 'Tipping the Velvet' is a captivating and sensual exploration of love, desire, and self-discovery. The series offers a look into the world of Victorian music halls and the hidden lives of queer women during that era.

5. Gentleman Jack (2019)
Gentleman Jack is a historical drama series based on the life of Anne Lister, a 19th-century Yorkshire landowner who lived openly as a lesbian. The show follows Anne as she returns to her ancestral home, Shibden Hall, determined to restore its fortunes and find a suitable wife. With her unconventional style, sharp wit, and unapologetic attitude, Anne challenges the social norms of her time and embarks on a series of daring business ventures and romantic pursuits. Suranne Jones delivers a captivating performance as Anne Lister, bringing to life a complex and fascinating historical figure. The series is notable for its use of Anne Lister's real diaries, which were written in code and provide a unique and intimate glimpse into her life and thoughts. The diaries were so detailed that included her many lesbian relationships.

4. Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)
Abdellatif Kechiche's Blue Is the Warmest Color is a coming-of-age drama that explores the passionate and tumultuous relationship between Adèle, a young high school student, and Emma, an older art student with blue hair. The film charts their love affair over several years, from their initial spark to the eventual challenges and heartbreak that threaten to tear them apart. Known for its explicit and realistic portrayal of intimacy, the film is a raw and unflinching exploration of first love, identity, and self-discovery. While controversial for its extended sex scenes and the director's methods, 'Blue Is the Warmest Color' remains a powerful and thought-provoking film about the complexities of human connection. Fun fact: Actresses Adèle Exarchopoulos and Léa Seydoux shared the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival with director Abdellatif Kechiche, a rare honor.

3. The Handmaiden (2016)
Park Chan-wook's The Handmaiden is a sumptuous and intricately plotted erotic thriller set in 1930s Korea, during the Japanese colonial period. The film follows Sook-Hee, a young pickpocket who is hired to become the handmaiden of Hideko, a wealthy Japanese heiress living in a secluded mansion. However, Sook-Hee has a secret agenda: she is part of a elaborate scheme to defraud Hideko of her inheritance. As the two women grow closer, their relationship takes unexpected turns, and they become entangled in a web of deception, desire, and betrayal. With its stunning visuals, masterful storytelling, and shocking twists, The Handmaiden is a cinematic feast for the senses. The movie is inspired in the novel 'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters.

2. Carol (2015)
Todd Haynes' Carol, adapted from Patricia Highsmith's novel 'The Price of Salt,' is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant love story set in 1950s New York. Cate Blanchett delivers a tour-de-force performance as Carol Aird, a sophisticated older woman trapped in a loveless marriage, who finds herself drawn to Therese Belivet, a young aspiring photographer played by Rooney Mara. The film beautifully captures the thrill and danger of their clandestine affair in an era when homosexuality was socially unacceptable. Haynes' meticulous attention to detail, from the costumes to the production design, creates a palpable sense of time and place, while the subtle and nuanced performances of the two leads make Carol a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. Did you know that Cate Blanchett fought hard for the movie to be made, and was attached to the project since 2013, initially to play Therese.

1. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
Céline Sciamma’s Portrait of a Lady on Fire is a masterpiece of unspoken longing and restrained passion. Set in 18th-century France, the film tells the story of Marianne, a painter commissioned to create a portrait of Héloïse, a young woman reluctant to marry. As Marianne secretly observes Héloïse by day and paints her portrait by night, an intense connection blossoms between them. The film is a study in the female gaze, exploring themes of art, memory, and forbidden love with breathtaking cinematography and nuanced performances. Sciamma's deliberate pacing and emphasis on subtle gestures create an atmosphere of palpable desire, making it a profoundly moving and unforgettable cinematic experience. A curious fact: the cast and crew lived together during filming to enhance the sense of intimacy and collaboration.
