best gay comedy movies of all time

Laugh Out Loud and Love: The Ultimate Guide to the Best LGBTQ+ Comedy Movies

Ready for a movie night that's both hilarious and heartwarming? Forget the same old rom-coms. Let's dive into a world of side-splitting laughter, relatable characters, and stories that celebrate the LGBTQ+ experience. From laugh-out-loud farces to films that subtly blend humor with deeper themes, get ready to add these gems to your watchlist!

Why LGBTQ+ Comedies Matter

Beyond the entertainment value, LGBTQ+ comedies play a vital role in representation. They offer a chance to see ourselves reflected on screen, normalize diverse relationships, and challenge stereotypes with wit and charm. Think about it: how powerful is it to see queer characters not just struggling, but thriving, laughing, and finding love just like everyone else?

Top Picks for Your Comedy Queue

Bottoms (2023): High School Mayhem with a Punch

Alright, let's kick things off with something fresh and edgy. Bottoms, a recent release from Orion Pictures, throws us into the chaotic world of two high school girls who start a fight club... with the rather specific goal of hooking up with cheerleaders before graduation. Sound absurd? Absolutely. But the trailer promises a wild ride filled with over-the-top humor and a healthy dose of social commentary. Think Superbad meets… well, a fight club. Are you ready to rumble (with laughter)?

The Birdcage (1996): A Classic for a Reason

You simply can't talk about LGBTQ+ comedies without mentioning The Birdcage. Robin Williams and Nathan Lane deliver iconic performances as a gay couple who must pretend to be straight to impress their son's conservative future in-laws. The resulting chaos is pure comedic gold. It's a laugh riot that also subtly challenges societal norms. Plus, the over-the-top theatricality? Chef's kiss!

Booksmart (2019): A Coming-of-Age Comedy for a New Generation

Okay, so maybe it isn't strictly a gay movie, but it has a very queer vibe. Think of it as Superbad, but for girls who prioritized academics over partying. On the eve of graduation, two high-achieving best friends realize they've missed out on the quintessential high school experience. Their solution? Cramming four years of partying into one epic night. Hilarious mishaps, tested friendships, and a dash of romance ensue. And for those looking for relatable awkwardness, the romantic scene is pure perfection.

Shiva Baby (2020): Anxiety-Inducing Comedy Gold

Directed by Emma Seligman (also behind Bottoms!), Shiva Baby is a masterclass in claustrophobic comedy. Danielle, a bisexual Jewish woman, attends a shiva only to run into her sugar daddy and her ex-girlfriend. Talk about a recipe for disaster! The film brilliantly portrays anxiety and awkwardness, making it both hilarious and deeply relatable.

In & Out (1997): Coming Out in the Spotlight

Kevin Kline stars as a small-town English teacher who is unexpectedly outed on national television by a former student. The film explores the teacher's hilarious journey as he comes to terms with his sexuality, while his town reacts in equally funny, and often cringeworthy, ways.

Saving Face (2004): Love, Family, and Tradition

This gem explores the complex relationship between Hwei-Lan and her lesbian daughter, Wil, as they navigate cultural expectations and personal desires within a Chinese-American family. It's a touching and funny story about acceptance, identity, and the importance of being true to yourself. Alice Wu, the director, deserves major props for fighting to keep the characters Chinese, adding much-needed representation.

My Beautiful Laundrette (1985): A British Classic

Set in 1980s London, this film tells the story of Omar, a young Pakistani man who, with the help of his childhood friend Johnny, transforms a rundown laundrette into a thriving business. The film explores themes of race, class, and sexuality against the backdrop of Thatcher-era Britain. It's a compelling and nuanced story that remains relevant today.

Fire Island (2022): A Modern Rom-Com

Parties, romance, and a tropical island vacation? Yes, please! Fire Island is an unapologetic, modern-day rom-com following a group of queer best friends as they embark on an unforgettable summer adventure. It's a celebration of friendship, love, and living your best queer life.

The Half of It (2020): A Fresh Take on the Teen Rom-Com

Shy Ellie Chu agrees to help a sweet jock named Paul win over his crush through text messages. The problem? Ellie has feelings for the same girl. This charming film explores themes of belonging, miscommunication, and the complexities of queer identity against a small-town backdrop. It is heartwarming and thought-provoking.

Beyond the Laughter: What Makes a Great LGBTQ+ Comedy?

It's more than just punchlines. The best LGBTQ+ comedies:

Ready to Watch?

So, grab your popcorn, gather your friends (or cuddle up solo!), and prepare for a night of laughter and love. These LGBTQ+ comedy movies are guaranteed to brighten your day and remind you that everyone deserves a good laugh - and a happy ending.