In recent decades, the representation of LGBTQIA+ individuals in popular culture has undergone significant shifts. These changes have been instrumental in raising awareness and fostering acceptance of a spectrum of sexual identities and orientations within society. As part of LGBTQ+ History Month we want to look at our favourite current queer media!
Film
The film industry has embraced queer narratives, offering a diverse range of stories that highlight LGBTQ+ experiences. Increasingly, these films are receiving critical acclaim and prestigious awards when historically they had been snubbed.
Here are some must-watch films:
WICKED
BOTTOMS
ALL OF US STRANGERS
QUEER
MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM
THE FAVOURITE
TV
Television has become a vibrant platform for queer representation. The longer format of a television show can provide viewers with more intimate and meaningful insights into the lives and struggles of LGBTQ+ individuals through these stories.
Here are our suggestions of what to binge next:
WILL & HARPER - Netflix
DOCTOR WHO - BBC
AGATHA ALL ALONG - Disney+
HEARTSTOPPER - Netlix
EUPHORIA - HBO
Music
Last year was a fantastic year for queer music. Some of the biggest artists in the world released new music, as well as rising LGBTQ+ artists having their breakout moments. Music not only provides queer expression for the artists, but anthems and activism for listeners.
Scroll to see our top music picks by current and upcoming queer artists:
CHAPPEL ROAN
BILLIE ELLISH
FRANK OCEAN
TYLER THE CREATOR
KIM PETRAS
GIRL IN RED
Books
With the rise of BookTok creating a new wave of passionate readers, the spotlight on relatable and realistic queer stories and literature has emerged.
Here are some of our must reads:
THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO by Taylor Jenkins Reid
RED, WHITE, AND ROYAL BLUE - by Casey McQuinston
THIS IS HOW YOU LOSE THE TIME WAR - by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone
THE SONG OF ACHILLES by Madeline Miller
CONVERSATIONS WITH FRIENDS by Sally Rooney
ON THIS EARTH WE ARE BRIEFLY GORGEOUS - Ocean Vuong
The evolution of LGBTQIA+ visibility in pop culture mirrors a profound societal shift towards greater inclusion and recognition. These diverse representations are fundamental in the fight against discrimination and in promoting equality for all. We hope your enjoy our recommendations!