Top 50 Best Lesbian Movies To Watch [2026]

Set against the lush backdrop of 18th-century France, "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" tells the story of a profound and forbidden romance between a young aristocratic woman and the artist hired to paint her wedding portrait. Their relationship deepens as they navigate the constraints of society and the intensity of their secret feelings.

This visually stunning historical drama is written and directed by Céline Sciamma and features compelling performances from Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel. The film made history when Sciamma became the first female director to win the prestigious Queer Palm at the Cannes Film Festival.

Every moment of the film immerses viewers in the intimate bond between painter and muse, with each scene beautifully composed and emotionally resonant. The result is a captivating cinematic experience that is both powerful and deeply moving.

With its evocative storytelling and delicate tension, "Portrait of a Lady on Fire" earned acclaim from award circuits such as the Critics’ Choice and Golden Globe Awards. It was also hailed as the second highest-reviewed film of 2019 on Rotten Tomatoes, cementing its place as a modern masterpiece.

"Gia" is more than just a cautionary tale about the dangers of drug use; it is also a poignant love story that explores the intense relationship between Angelina Jolie’s Gia and Elizabeth Mitchell’s Linda.

While their romance may at times feel heightened and even exploitative, director Michael Cristofer's powerful film keeps its focus on Gia’s struggles with mental illness, addiction, and internalized homophobia.

Because the characters are inspired by real people, there’s a compelling authenticity that draws audiences deeply into the narrative.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its ability to provide representation, allowing many queer women to feel truly seen and heard on screen.

Park Chan-wook’s The Handmaiden is widely regarded as both a cinematic triumph from South Korea and a landmark in lesbian-themed storytelling. This film brilliantly intertwines various genres, resulting in an unforgettable and essential experience for film enthusiasts.

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of 1930s Korea during Japanese occupation, the plot follows a wealthy Japanese heiress who employs a new maid. What she doesn’t realize is that her maid, part of a cunning con with a seasoned swindler, intends to rob her of her inheritance.

This captivating thriller excels by seamlessly merging elements of suspense, romance, dark humor, and evocative eroticism. Each narrative twist enriches the story, keeping viewers riveted and constantly guessing.

The film dazzles with its stunning visuals and hauntingly expressive performances. The palpable chemistry between the leads brings forth raw emotion, showcasing Park Chan-wook’s exceptional direction.

Adapted from Sarah Waters’ novel Fingersmith, this psychological thriller claimed the "Best Film Not in the English Language" honor at the 71st British Academy Film Awards. The Handmaiden lingers in viewers’ minds long after it ends, inviting thought and admiration.

"Carol," based on Patricia Highsmith's celebrated novel "The Price of Salt," showcases mesmerizing performances by Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara.

Set against the backdrop of the 1950s, the film follows a young, aspiring photographer whose life changes after she forms a deep connection with an elegant older woman navigating a difficult divorce.

What begins as a chance meeting gradually evolves into a tender romance, unfolding in a time when such a relationship faces immense societal challenges and prejudices.

"Carol" captivates viewers with its poignant portrayal of queer love, breathtaking cinematography, exquisite performances, and a hauntingly beautiful score.

Lauded by the British Film Institute as the finest LGBT film of all time, "Carol" garnered five Golden Globe nominations, six Oscar nominations, and nine BAFTA nominations, solidifying its status as a modern cinematic classic.

Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, "The Favourite" is a masterfully crafted dark comedy set in the 18th century, blending historical inspiration with imaginative storytelling to deliver a truly unique cinematic experience.

While not overtly a lesbian film, its dynamic depiction of complex relationships between women, brought to life by outstanding performances, has earned it a well-deserved place on this list.

The film debuted to rave reviews at the 75th Venice International Film Festival, securing the prestigious Grand Jury Prize and the Volpi Cup for Best Actress, awarded to Olivia Colman for her unforgettable role.

Rachel Weisz and Emma Stone also deliver memorable performances, each adding depth and intrigue to this widely celebrated and visually stunning film.

"Blue is the Warmest Colour" stands as a groundbreaking and emotionally resonant film in modern lesbian cinema. Renowned for its raw portrayal of love and self-discovery, it has become an essential viewing experience for audiences worldwide.

Directed by Abdellatif Kechiche, the film centers on Adèle, a young woman navigating the complexities of her sexuality. Following a breakup with her boyfriend, Adèle's world transforms when she meets the vibrant, blue-haired Emma. Together, the two embark on a passionate and transformative relationship.

Spanning from Adèle’s high school years into her adulthood as a schoolteacher, the story sensitively explores personal growth and the evolving nature of love. Inspired by Jul Maroh’s graphic novel, the movie captivated audiences and critics alike upon its release.

"Blue is the Warmest Colour" achieved remarkable recognition, earning nominations for the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film and the BAFTA for Best Film Not in the English Language. The film made history by winning both the Palme d'Or and the FIPRESCI Prize, with the prestigious Palme d'Or awarded jointly to the director and the film’s two lead actresses.

Directed with heartfelt sensitivity by Chris Bolan, "A Secret Love" unveils the extraordinary life of Terry Donahue, a former All-American Girls Professional Baseball League player who courageously concealed her same-sex relationship for more than seventy years.

This touching documentary offers a deeply personal glimpse into the journey of Terry and her partner, celebrating love that has thrived quietly in the face of adversity and societal expectations.

With moving honesty, the film captures the endurance and warmth of their bond, serving as an inspiration and a tribute to all relationships that have patiently awaited acceptance and recognition.

It beautifully emphasizes that love is among the greatest treasures life has to offer, encouraging us to value and cherish those close to us while we have the chance.

The story thoughtfully prompts us to consider how rigid social norms can force individuals to hide their true identities, underlining the courage it takes to live authentically and the importance of fostering a more inclusive world.

Before her iconic role in Titanic, Kate Winslet made a stunning debut in Peter Jackson's "Heavenly Creatures." This haunting film, crafted three years before Winslet became a household name, showcases her early talent alongside Melanie Lynskey.

Set in 1950s New Zealand, the story delves into the vivid imaginations of two teenage girls who form an intense and inseparable bond through a love of fantasy and literature. Their connection soon gives way to an obsession with tragic consequences.

Inspired by a notorious real-life murder case, "Heavenly Creatures" chillingly depicts how the girls' friendship spirals into darkness as they conspire to commit an unthinkable act.

Winslet and Lynskey deliver mesmerizing performances, breathing complexity and emotional depth into their roles. This film remains a must-watch for anyone seeking a powerful exploration of adolescent desire, obsession, and psychological intrigue.

Olivia Wilde makes a remarkable directorial debut with "Booksmart," a coming-of-age buddy comedy that features one of its main protagonists as a lesbian.

The film follows best friends Amy and Molly as they approach graduation. Soon, they discover they've missed out on typical high school fun by focusing solely on academics, which has made them seem pretentious to their peers.

Undeterred, Amy and Molly vow to make up for lost time during their final 24 hours as high schoolers, leading to a series of hilarious and heartfelt adventures.

Throughout its fast-paced narrative, "Booksmart" highlights the deep friendship between Amy and Molly, with Molly’s unwavering support for her lesbian friend Amy standing out as a touching element.

David Lynch's Mulholland Drive (2001) is far more than the sum of its famous, steamy scene between Laura Harring and Naomi Watts. This enigmatic masterpiece captivates with its intense, layered storytelling and evocative atmosphere.

At its core, the film follows the enigmatic journey of Rita, a mysterious amnesiac, and Betty, an aspiring actress new to Los Angeles. Together, they set out to unravel the puzzle of Rita’s lost identity, drawing viewers deeper into the film’s surreal labyrinth.

As the narrative unfolds, the lines between reality and illusion blur. Lynch expertly challenges the audience to reconsider what they believe about both characters' identities and motivations, keeping every twist unpredictable.

Ultimately, Mulholland Drive stands out for its refusal to offer simple answers. Its richly layered character dynamics, especially between Rita and Betty, are woven into a story that rewards repeat viewings and endless discussion.

The film’s enduring allure lies not only in its sensuality but also in its depth. Each viewing reveals new themes of desire, identity, and the dangers of dreams, ensuring its place among cinema’s most provocative and fascinating lesbian narratives.

The Kids Are All Right is a groundbreaking Hollywood film that authentically depicts the lives of a same-sex couple navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood. Nic and Jules, two women building a loving life together, strive to guide their teenage children, Joni and Laser, through adolescence.

Their family dynamics are tested when the kids decide to contact their biological father, introducing new complications and heartfelt moments. Directed by Lisa Cholodenko and nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture, the movie blends humor and drama to offer a sincere portrait of modern family life.

While the film centers on a lesbian couple, its universal themes of love, resilience, and commitment resonate with anyone who values the complexities of relationships and family bonds.

Pariah, written and directed by Dee Rees, tells the powerful story of a Brooklyn teenager on a journey to understand and embrace her sexual identity. Caught between family expectations and her friendships, she balances conflicting identities, all while facing the challenges of acceptance and the risk of heartbreak.

Adepero Oduye delivers a standout performance, bringing authenticity and emotional depth to the film. Pariah is celebrated for its honest portrayal of Black and LGBTQ+ lives, resonating with audiences for its nuanced storytelling and distinctive cultural impact.

The film made its debut at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Excellence in Cinematography Award. With its critical acclaim, Pariah marks Dee Rees as a bold and essential new voice in contemporary cinema.

"Tomboy," directed by Céline Sciamma, offers a poignant and empathetic exploration of identity and self-discovery. The film introduces Laure, a gender non-conforming child, who moves with their family to a quiet suburb on the edge of Paris, where a new chapter awaits.

As Laure settles in, they choose to assume the name Mickael and present as a boy to new friends. Navigating this fresh start, Laure carefully balances the excitement of newfound freedom with the complex realities of living authentically.

Sciamma crafts a gentle, thought-provoking narrative that seamlessly blends questions of gender and belonging. Rather than labeling Laure’s experiences, the film allows viewers to reflect on their own perceptions, fostering thoughtful engagement with the subject matter.

Zoé Héran gives a remarkable performance, skillfully bringing to life Laure’s inner journey through subtle gestures and expressive looks. Héran's portrayal is frequently hailed as one of the most honest and moving depictions by a child actor in contemporary cinema.

With "Tomboy," the themes of self-acceptance, courage, and the universal challenges of growing up are lovingly illuminated, making it a truly standout entry on any list of LGBTQ+ cinema.

Distributed by Netflix, this coming-of-age romantic comedy feels like a gift for anyone seeking a truly original film in the genre.

Written and directed by Alice Wu, the story follows Ellie Chu, a shy yet intelligent high school student, as she helps the awkward jock Paul Munsky pursue the girl he likes.

The twist is that Ellie develops feelings for the same girl, leading the trio to navigate an unexpected friendship and a deeper understanding of the complexities of love.

This film stands out for its heartfelt performances and its unique narrative, questioning our tendency to chase an idealized version of romance.

Alice Wu skillfully shows that there is no "perfect" way to love—reminding us that authenticity is the most real aspect of love itself. This is what truly sets the film apart in the genre.

Adapted from Helen Cross's novel, "My Summer of Love" is a beautifully directed film by Paweł Pawlikowski. It follows the story of Mona, a working-class girl, and Tamsin, a middle-class young woman, as their paths cross in the lush Yorkshire countryside.

Their initial chance encounter quickly blossoms into an intimate and transformative relationship, with both spending a great deal of time exploring each other's worlds.

Over the course of the summer, Mona and Tamsin realize they have much to learn and discover together, leading to an intense and evocative journey of self-discovery.

The film draws viewers in with its tender portrayal of first love and the complexities of adolescence, making it easy to become emotionally invested in the girls' evolving bond.

Ultimately, "My Summer of Love" offers a moody and bittersweet narrative, elevated by the compelling lead performances of Emily Blunt and Natalie Press.

Directed, written, and edited by Kelly Reichardt, Certain Women features Kristen Stewart in her first openly lesbian role on film. The movie brings together the intersecting lives of several women, each grappling with their own sense of isolation and longing.

Among these narratives, the queer storyline stands out as the most poignant and emotionally resonant. Although it occupies only about a third of the film's runtime, its quiet power leaves a lasting impression.

Altogether, Certain Women unfolds as an engrossing slow-burn drama that might surprise viewers with its subtlety and depth.

"The Watermelon Woman" (1996), crafted by Cheryl Dunye—who wrote, directed, and edited the film—tells the engaging story of a passionate Black lesbian filmmaker seeking the lost legacy of a 1940s Black actress once only recognized as "The Watermelon Woman."

This film is historically significant as the first mainstream feature directed by a Black lesbian, a groundbreaking achievement that forever altered the landscape of LGBTQ+ cinema.

Celebrated as a defining entry in New Queer Cinema, "The Watermelon Woman" expertly weaves together humor, self-reflection, and thought-provoking social commentary, all with a refreshingly playful approach.

Known for its sharp wit and insightful take on queer and Black history, this film remains a cultural milestone renowned for its dry humor and enduring importance.

"The Hours" is a masterful psychological drama that intricately connects the lives of three women from different eras, beginning with Virginia Woolf as she pens her groundbreaking novel, "Mrs. Dalloway."

Spanning multiple timelines, the film also explores the stories of Laura Brown and Clarissa Vaughan, who each find comfort and purpose in Woolf's literary world as they wrestle with personal discontent and the expectations of society.

What sets "The Hours" apart is its delicate, genuine portrayal of lesbian and bisexual experiences, threading these themes across generations with rich emotional depth and period-appropriate tension.

The authenticity of the film is elevated by the phenomenal performances of Meryl Streep, Julianne Moore, and Nicole Kidman, whose portrayals bring emotional resonance to every scene.

With its stellar cast and emotionally powerful storytelling, "The Hours" stands as a moving, beautifully crafted essential for anyone interested in stories of self-discovery and queer identity.

Based on Erica Fischer's acclaimed book, "Aimee & Jaguar" is an evocative German drama skillfully written and directed by Max Färberböck.

The film transports viewers to World War II-era Berlin, where a Nazi officer's wife and a Jewish woman living in hiding embark on a forbidden and deeply moving romance. Surrounded by ever-present danger and prejudice, their love story conveys the immense risks and emotional turmoil they encounter.

This is far from a typical romantic comedy; instead, it offers an emotionally gripping narrative that resonates long after the film ends.

While the expertly written script anchors the story, it is Juliane Köhler and Maria Schrader's stellar performances that infuse the characters with genuine longing and intensity, making "Aimee & Jaguar" a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

"Princess Cyd" is a heartfelt coming-of-age drama written and directed by Stephen Cone, featuring Rebecca Spence, Jessie Pinnick, and Malic White. The film follows 16-year-old Cyd as she spends the summer with her estranged aunt, Miranda, opening the door to new experiences and personal growth.

During her stay, Cyd finds herself attracted to another girl, sparking a tender romance. Meanwhile, the dynamic between Cyd and her aunt unfolds as both women challenge each other's perspectives on sexuality, independence, and life's possibilities.

Stephen Cone deserves praise for crafting an endearing romantic comedy that gracefully departs from traditional coming-of-age tropes. The story beautifully explores self-discovery, mentorship, and the many forms love can take.

Summertime, or La Belle Saison in the original French, is a French-Belgian romantic drama film that has been directed by Catherine Corsini.

It tracks the journey of two women, Carole and Delphine, who meet and fall head over heels in love in 1971.

However, after Carole follows Delphine back to her family farm, the two discover that lesbianism and feminism are not as accepted in the countryside. Needless to say, it creates unexpected blockades for the pair.

An intellectual feature of sorts, Summertime tells a wonderful and tragic love story while casting a light on the women's lib movement in 1970s France.

The movie takes pride in the fact that its central performers share a natural chemistry and carry the plot seamlessly.

This Wanuri Kahiu directorial venture tells the story of Kena, who finds herself getting attracted to a girl named Ziki from her immediate neighborhood.

Even though the two end up getting very close to each other, things spiral out of control when they come face to face with the Kenyan authorities.

This is because Kenyan laws do not permit homosexuality.

Rafiki does an appreciable job of bringing the plight of the queer people in Kenya to light.

It is imperative to mention that the film was banned by the Kenya Film Classification Board "due to its homosexual theme and clear intent to promote lesbianism in Kenya contrary to the law." After its makers sued the Kenyan government to get the film released, the ban was lifted for seven days.

However, to everyone's surprise, Rafiki went on to become the second highest-grossing Kenyan film of all time following its much-awaited theatrical release.

"Monster" stands out as one of the most distinctive films on our list. The movie delves into the troubled life of Aileen Wuornos, a woman who has faced homelessness for much of her existence and struggles to survive on the fringes of society.

Driven by desperation, Aileen turns to street prostitution in hopes of eking out a living, but her efforts to find stability and redemption seem to bring more hardships instead.

Overwhelmed by hopelessness and despair, she begins robbing and murdering her clients, paving the way for an unsettling yet powerful narrative. Charlize Theron's extraordinary performance in the lead role is brought to life through Patty Jenkins' nuanced and empathetic direction.

This cinematic masterpiece not only garnered Theron an Academy Award for Best Actress but also offers a unique perspective that elevates "Monster" as essential viewing in lesbian cinema.

Based on Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this powerful period drama is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg.

The film chronicles the life of Celie, a resilient young woman who endures harrowing abuse, first at the hands of her father and then an oppressive husband.

As Celie seeks to reclaim her independence, she forms a transformative bond with Shug Avery—a charismatic showgirl who becomes both her confidante and her romantic interest.

Though the adaptation does not fully explore the novel’s explicit lesbian themes, the film’s honest portrayal of queer undertones and deep emotional connections establishes its place in LGBTQ cinema.

With powerful performances, evocative dialogue, and a memorable musical score that beautifully captures the vibrancy of its setting, this adaptation resonates with audiences and delivers a compelling, uplifting narrative.

Not many of our readers would be aware of the fact that this Donna Deitch-helmed project is widely considered to be one of the first mainstream movies to have represented lesbians favorably.

The story follows a repressed professor of literature, who, while waiting for her divorce papers, gets unexpectedly attracted by a carefree and spirited young lesbian.

This life-altering experience not only helps her find her true self but also allows her to come to terms with her sexuality.

Based on Jane Rule's novel Desert of the Heart, this romantic drama set benchmarks in the way queer women were portrayed on the big screen.

It is not surprising then that it has evolved into a queer cult classic since it first hit the screens back in 1985.

"Saving Face" marks a milestone as the first major Hollywood feature focusing on Chinese-American experiences since "The Joy Luck Club" in 1993, and it serves as the remarkable directorial debut from Alice Wu.

The film weaves the story of a gay Chinese-American woman and her traditional mother, both struggling to keep their personal secrets amidst a web of cultural expectations and family pressures.

While the film did not achieve blockbuster status at the box office, it is widely regarded as one of the most compelling portrayals of homosexuality within Chinese culture, earning lasting praise for its authenticity and emotional resonance.

Since its release, "Saving Face" has made a significant and positive impact within the LGBTQ+ Chinese community, resonating across generations.

The Los Angeles Times recognized its influence by naming it among the 20 best Asian American films of the last two decades.

Directed by Brett Haley, Hearts Beat Loud traces the wonderful coming-of-age journey of Sam and her father Frank. We see how the latter struggles to accept that his daughter has to go to college right when one of their songs goes on to become a smash hit online.

Hearts Beat Loud is a multi-racial credit that we all deserve. It is that rare movie that doesn't show its queer lead character struggling to deal with her sexuality or relationship.

Revolutionary for a mainstream Hollywood film in more ways than one, this one is a light-hearted family comedy about growing up and cherishing everything that your loved ones do for you.

Irrespective of what the subject of the film is, you simply cannot afford to miss out on an opportunity to catch gorgeous performers like Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams on celluloid.

Based on Naomi Alderman's novel of the same name, Disobedience follows the complex journey of a young woman who returns to an orthodox Jewish community after the death of her father.

However, things go for a toss when she chances upon her loving childhood friend and restarts a forbidden relationship with her, despite having been shunned for the same years ago.

Disobedience received positive reviews from film pundits for its direction and screenplay, and Weisz and McAdams were applauded for having delivered one of the finest performances of their respective screen careers.

Directed and written by the Wachowskis, 'Bound' (1996) is a gripping neo-noir crime thriller centered on Violet, the alluring mistress of mobster Caesar.

Beneath the surface, Violet is entangled in a passionate relationship with ex-con Corky. Together, the duo hatches a daring plan to leave Caesar, steal millions in mob money, and frame him for the crime, risking everything for love and freedom.

This visually striking and seductive heist film features powerful performances from Gina Gershon and Jennifer Tilly, portraying lovers who must navigate treacherous obstacles on their escape.

'Bound' stands out as an exceptionally unique entry among the best lesbian movies, leaving a lasting impression with its bold storytelling and style.

Discover "Dating Amber," a hidden gem that beautifully captures the journey of two high-school students who fake a relationship to shield themselves from prejudice in 1990s Ireland. This heartfelt coming-of-age tale delicately addresses the complexities of identity and acceptance.

Directed by David Freyne, the film explores the challenges faced by two closeted teenagers while highlighting the power of friendship and the importance of being true to oneself. It offers a fresh perspective on teenage struggles and LGBTQ+ experiences within conservative communities.

The entire cast and crew deliver moving performances that deserve recognition, as they shine a light on how isolating life can feel for closeted gay teenagers in small towns worldwide. "Dating Amber" is both touching and insightful, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking thoughtful representation.

Chloë Grace Moretz may have been a part of the movies since her very childhood but she delivered her career-best performance as the titular character in The Miseducation of Cameron Post.

Based on Emily M. Danforth's novel of the same name, the motion picture is set in 1993 and tracks the journey of a teenage girl, who is forced to visit a gay conversion therapy center by her hidebound guardians.

Chloë does a commendable job of projecting moments of teen confusion and dejection with remarkable subtlety.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a meaningful film in the sense that it makes a brave attempt to showcase the unspeakable destruction conversion therapy may have caused to our community over the years.

It aims to stress that such "therapies" need to be stopped for the betterment of our LGBTQ+ youth.

Released in the same year as David Lynch's Mulholland Drive, this Charles Herman-Wurmfeld-helmed feature film is unique in the sense that it has been written and co-produced by its leading actors, Jennifer Westfeldt and Heather Juergensen.

The story follows a young woman, Jessica, who, while trying to find herself the perfect man, ends up getting romantically involved with a bisexual woman named Helen.

However, as their relationship progresses, the viewers notice that Jessica is finding it incredibly difficult to keep up with it. Kissing Jessica Stein premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival in 2001 and was lauded for its positive depiction of a same-sex relationship.

Directed by Shonali Bose, Margarita with a Straw follows the compelling journey of a young woman with cerebral palsy as she embraces independence by moving from India to New York for her studies.

As she navigates a new world, she embarks on a powerful journey of self-discovery, exploring themes of love, sexuality, and acceptance in ways that are both moving and transformative.

Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2014, this acclaimed coming-of-age drama was also featured at prestigious festivals, including the Tallinn Black Nights, BFI London, Vesoul Festival of Asian Cinema, and Galway Film Fleadh.

Kalki Koechlin delivers a standout performance in the lead role, complemented by Bose's sensitive direction, making this film a standout entry among Bollywood's most celebrated titles.

This Clea DuVall directorial venture does not only qualify as a lesbian feature but it also works quite well as a Christmas film.

Starring the talented Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis in prominent roles, this quirky romantic comedy tells the story of a lesbian named Abby, who plans to propose to her girlfriend, Harper, in front of Harper's family members.

However, she is shocked to discover that Harper is yet to come out to her parents. The tiny flaws of this amazingly entertaining motion picture can easily be blotted out by its bigger charms.

Moreover, it has to be pointed out that a mainstream credit titled Happiest Season had to, unsurprisingly, end on a happy note.

This coming-of-age drama is set in a middle-class Parisian suburb. It follows the story of three teenage girls who, while trying to explore their sexualities at the local pool over the course of a summer, end up getting involved in a love triangle that becomes increasingly difficult to sustain.

Water Lilies handles its subject well and does a fair job at telling a realistic but predictable story. Now, it is not necessarily required for you to be into Euro-teen movies in order to appreciate this feature.

This is primarily because its plot is pretty accessible and flows rather smoothly.

Written and directed by Lisa Cholodenko, High Art sparkles with charm and is seen employing its photography as both a flirtation and cinematic device to make a solid impression.

The story tracks the journey of a young female intern at a small magazine company who falls for a drug-addicted lesbian photographer.

Sooner than later, we catch them exploiting each other to advance their respective careers. The portrayal of this motion picture sometimes makes it feel like the modern-day Carol, even though it was filmed more than two decades ago.

Written and directed by Francis Lee and featuring Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan in the lead, this romantic drama is loosely inspired by the life of British paleontologist Mary Anning.

The story showcases how the acclaimed fossil hunter Mary Anning is compelled to care for a rich visitor's sick wife, Charlotte Murchison.

While at it, she ends up getting into a passionate relationship with her; something that forces the two women to re-examine their respective lives.

Even though the historical accuracy of the motion picture has been questioned, what has been duly acknowledged is the fact that it has been toplined by two extraordinary leading ladies who leave no stone unturned to make it worth watching.

This defining lesbian feature film has been helmed for the screen by Jessica Swale. It tells the story of a reclusive writer who has to reluctantly take the responsibility of caring for a young boy in a war-torn nation.

In an attempt to bond with him, she tells him a story that not only allows her to rediscover herself but also relive her seemingly long-lost past.

Toplined by the attractive Gemma Arterton, Summerland is a touching project whose plot has been constructed around genuine historical events.

The motion picture thrives on its convincing lead performance.

This F. Gary Gray-helmed feature film is yet another heist drama that comprises a queer undertone. The story introduces the audience to four Black women friends, all of whom seem to have faced financial hardships.

They decide to take charge and rob banks to do better for themselves and their respective families.

The movie, which features Queen Latifah as a lesbian, is a satisfying and socially conscious watch that works mainly due to the adroit performances of its lead actors.

That said, Set It Off is a lot more than a simple thriller about four women who rob banks. It is not surprising then that it won its director an Acapulco Black Film Festival award for Best Director in 1997.

Written and directed by Alantė Kavaitė, The Summer of Sangailė tracks the journey of a teenager who gets into a relationship with a 17-year-old, who happens to be visiting her family's lake house for the summer.

This motion picture is as dreamy and tender as it is corny. However, the makers have done a terrific job at providing a heartfelt experience to their viewers.

It was screened in the Panorama section of the 65th Berlin International Film Festival. While it won an award for its direction in the Dramatic World Cinema category at the Sundance Film Festival in 2015, it even grabbed the Best Film, Best Actress (Julija Steponaitytė), and Best Set Design trophies at the Silver Crane Awards.

That said, we won't be surprised if you feel like booking yourself a ticket to Lithuania right after having seen this flick.

Based on Susan Swan's novel The Wives of Bath, this Léa Pool directorial venture familiarizes us with stories about the intense relationships between classmates at an all-girls school.

The motion picture resulted in making Piper Perabo a breakout star at the time. She embodied her character perfectly and delivered a fierce performance.

That being said, as familiar as the plot may sound, you have to trust us to not miss out on Lost and Delirious.

We say so because, in many ways, it is going to make you relive your days of adolescence; a period during which your heart skipped a beat for not just romance but also passionate idealism.

One of the most underrated features to make it to our piece today, Freeheld brings together Elliot Page and Julianne Moore to tell the moving story of a New Jersey police lieutenant Laurel Hester and her registered domestic partner Stacie Andree.

We see the duo doing their best to secure Hester's pension benefits after she is unfortunately diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The undeniable chemistry between Page and Moore is arguably the biggest selling point of this motion picture. Also, the fact that Steve Carell and Michael Shannon are seen in supporting roles only backs its cause.

Starring competent screen performers such as Kate Mara and Elliot Page in the lead, this Tali Shalom Ezer-helmed project aims to tell the story of a daughter of a man on death row, who ends up falling in love with a woman.

The catch here is that the lady she is attracted to is on the opposing side of her family's political cause.

While this lesbian romantic drama can get you teary-eyed, it at least strives to do so with a sense of humor.

Watch it for the spectacular character projections of its two confident protagonists.

Game of Thrones star Lena Headey headlines this British romantic comedy-drama flick in which she portrays Luce; a newlywed bride who becomes infatuated with another woman right on the day of her wedding.

Sooner than later, the two women form a close connection which compels Luce to question not only her sexual orientation but also her marriage.

Even though this motion picture initially opened to mixed reviews, its lead characters, Rachel and Luce, have been acknowledged as two of the most iconic lesbians in film over time.

Given the fact that LGBTQ+ stories were rare at the time, Imagine Me & You has to be considered a groundbreaking and audacious project for queer cinema.

This gritty coming-of-age film chronicles the journey of two friends, Claude and Ellen, who live in a not-so-nice area of New York.

They seem to be heavily engaged in the '90s youth subculture, which includes live music, recreational substances, and prejudices against certain groups. However, a violent and meaningless death rocks their lives and changes them dramatically overnight.

This rebelliously charming drama is an ideal indie feature to have come out during the late '90s. It thrives on its writing and cinematography, which are coupled with a catchy hip urban soundtrack.

Orange is the New Black alum Natasha Lyonne stars as Megan Bloomfield; a naive teenager who is compelled to go to rehab after her prim parents and pals suspect her of being a lesbian.

Even though this Jamie Babbit directorial venture opened to unfavorable reviews at the time of its release because of its stereotypical depiction of gay men and women, it has, over the years, been appreciated for its satirical and campy themes.

Needless to mention, But I’m a Cheerleader has gone on to develop a cult following in the LGBTQ+ community.

The project received thunderous applause at the San Francisco International Lesbian and Gay Film Festival.

Staying true to its title, this Maria Maggenti directorial venture aims to track the adventurous love story of two young women belonging to different social and economic backgrounds.

As the viewers get familiar with the two protagonists, they get to witness the typical struggles of a new-age romance.

Set in New York, this likable mid-90s feature carries the finest tropes of a trademark teen flick. While the '90s color palette and aesthetics work wonders for the film, its strength lies in its honest lead performances.

The makers have done a commendable job of portraying first love and all the excitement and crises that tag along with it.

There is just something about forbidden love that ends up providing any story with a much-needed sense of freedom and belonging.

This Isabel Coixet directorial venture introduces us to Elisa and Marcela who meet and form a great friendship in 1885.

Not long after getting acquainted, they get into a serious relationship. However, given the socio-political scenario at the time, the couple has no option but to keep their romance a secret.

Things get interesting when, in 1901, Elisa decides to adopt a male identity to marry the woman that she loves.

While the critics praised the film's visual appeal, they felt that the screenplay lacked the passion and energy that could have helped it transform into a stirring melodrama.

Be that as it may, Elisa & Marcela shows how people in love are willing to go the extra mile to preserve what they've been fortunate enough to experience within their lives.

Kiss Me, which was also released as With Every Heartbeat, is a Swedish drama film that has been helmed by Alexandra-Therese Keining.

It tells the story of a young woman who has been engaged to be wedded. However, the plot thickens when she ends up having a forbidden love affair with her soon-to-be stepmother's lesbian daughter.

Even though the basic premise may come across as trite, don't allow yourself to be duped by it. This movie tells a love story without being corny and banks on its appealing cinematography, authentic dialogues, and believable performances to make an impression.

A recipient of the "Breakthrough Award" at the 2011 AFI Festival, Kiss Me has the added advantage of comprising a brilliant soundtrack.

This Lizzie Borden directorial venture was filmed guerilla-style in 1980s New York City. It is an entertaining and energetic mix of punk and science fiction which is set in the not-too-distant future.

The story showcases a group of determined women deciding to organize and rebel when a socialist government comes to power.

Though it's tough to categorize this wildly inventive motion picture, those who have recently rediscovered it have gone on to assert that its storyline especially aims to empower women of color and lesbians.