Are you looking to get your edu-gay-ction?
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY NEW LINE CINEMA
Coming out can be just as daunting as it is exciting. There’s a whole new world to get acquainted with, new slang and terminology to learn and a beautiful tapestry of culture to dive into. In short, it can be tricky to know where to begin.
Well, you’ve come to the right place. What better way to learn more about LGBTQIA+ history, culture and experiences than through the wonderful art of film? These films have shaped sapphic culture and had us swooning (or sobbing) for decades.
Portrait Of A Lady On Fire (2019)
Chances are you’ve probably heard of Céline Sciamma’s knockout film. The French historical drama follows the story of a painter, Marianne, who is commissioned to paint a portrait of an aristocratic woman named Heloise in her wedding dress. This film is largely regarded as one of the most beloved films in the sapphic canon and is sure to bring you to tears.
Where to watch: ITVX or Amazon Prime
Stud Life (2012)
Campbell X’s debut film is just as relevant today as it was over a decade ago. The film follows JJ, a stud, and her best friend Seb as they work as wedding photographers. Stud Life sees JJ fall in love with the mysterious Ellie, which tests her friendship with Seb for the first time. This sexy, cool film gives audiences a peek into British urban life and remains a classic.
Where to buy: Amazon Prime or Apple TV
Duck Butter (2018)
This beautifully whacky film is the perfect introduction to sapphic indie cinema. Starring Alia Shawkat and Laia Costa, Duck Butter asks a simple question: what would happen if you had sex every hour with a stranger for an entire day? What follows is a bizarre, beautiful and messy depiction of intimacy and connection.
Where to watch: Netflix
Pariah (2011)
Dee Rees’ powerful drama is essential viewing for any LGBTQIA+ person. Pariah tells the story of 17-year-old Alike, who grapples with coming out as a lesbian. The film is so important culturally that it was actually selected for preservation in the US National Film Registry. For anyone coming out, this film hits home about the struggles but also the beauty of owning your identity.
Where to buy: YouTube, Amazon Prime or Apple TV
The Miseducation Of Cameron Post (2018)
Queer icon Chloë Grace Moretz stars in this coming-of-age drama about a teenager, Cameron, sent to a conversion “therapy” camp by her guardians. At this camp, Cameron befriends Jane and Adam to form her own chosen family.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Saving Face (2004)
Alice Wu’s debut feature-length film is the ultimate sapphic rom-com. Set in New York, Saving Face follows the story of a mother and daughter coming to terms with each other. Wil’s life is going smoothly as she begins a promising romance with a dancer named Vivian. Everything is turned upside down for Wil, however, when her mother moves in.
Where to buy: Amazon Prime, YouTube and Apple TV
Happiest Season (2020)
Sapphics do not play around when it comes to Clea DuVall’s festive flick. The minute December rolls around, you can guarantee that sapphics around the world are sticking on this Christmas movie. Starring K-Stew, Aubrey Plaza and Mackenzie Davis, Happiest Season follows the story of Abby getting ready to propose to her girlfriend Harper over the holidays. Things don’t go according to plan when she visits Harper’s family home to find out she hasn’t come out yet.
Where to buy: Amazon Prime, YouTube and Apple TV
Set It Off (1996)
See Queen Latifah at the beginning of her ascent to stardom in this classic 90s crime action film. Set It Off follows four close friends as they plan to execute a bank robbery to better themselves and their families. Starring as Cleo, Queen Latifah provided vital representation at the time for Black lesbians around the world.
Where to buy: Amazon Prime, YouTube and Apple TV
Bound (1996)
If you haven’t heard of Bound yet, you are in for a treat! This classic film by the Wachowskis is everything you could want in an erotic thriller and more. Jennifer Tilly and Gina Gershon practically sizzle on screen. Bound follows the story of a woman, Violet, who wants to leave her mobster boyfriend. When she meets ex-con Corky, the pair hatch a plan while also getting it on.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
Carol (2015)
If you like Cate Blanchett, this one’s for you. Based on Patricia Highsmith’s iconic book The Price Of Salt, Carol tracks the story of a forbidden affair between a young photographer and an older woman going through a divorce. It pretty much defined an entire generation’s obsession with Cate Blanchett.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
But I’m A Cheerleader (1999)
If we’re talking about seminal bits of sapphic cinema, this one is up there for sure. Natasha Lyonne stars as a cheerleader who has been sent to a conversion “therapy” camp to “cure” her lesbianism. At this camp, she meets Graham, played by Clea DuVall. It’s hard to overstate the cultural significance of this film, which also features queer icons like RuPaul.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime
D.E.B.S. (2004)
If you’re looking for a feel-good rom-com, then D.E.B.S. is the perfect pick for you. This action-packed film follows the relationship between supervillain Lucy spy-in-training Amy, who is supposed to be surveilling her. It’s a cult classic for a reason!
Where to buy: Amazon Prime, YouTube and Apple TV
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