Best Gay-Themed Films: Part One

Although "Brokeback Mountain" is probably the most famous gay-themed movie produced in recent years, there have also been a number of other films that have a particular appeal to the GLBT community. This article, the first in a series, will provide an overview of some of these films, pointing out why they are worthy of attention and viewing.

"Latter Days"-This film, which sensitively explores the complicated intersections between religion and faith, is a touching story about a young playboy who happens to fall in love with a closeted Mormon missionary. Through the trials and tribulations that typically accompany a romance of this type, the two lovers are finally united in the end (sorry to ruin the ending,) thus showing the power of love to overcome the restrictions placed upon it by dogmatic religion. A truly inspiring story of love flourishing in the midst of tribulation.

"Another Country"-This film, starring a very young Rubert Everett and Colin Firth, is the story of two young men, one a homosexual and the other a Marxist, as they confront the bigotry and restrictions of the early 20th Century British school system. The film includes some very touching and sensitive scenes of the love between men (especially between Everett and a very young Carey Elwes,) which makes it a particularly appealing film, especially given that it was made in the 1980s. Definitely a must-watch.

"Maurice"-This film, which also takes place in Britain during the early part of the 20th Century, is the touching story of a young, middle-class British man as he struggles to come to terms with his homosexuality in a culture that is incredibly intolerant of such sexuality. After a great many trials and tribulations, he finally gets together with a lower-class man, and the two settle in to a happily-ever-after ending.

"A Beautiful Thing"-Taking place in a lower-class British neighborhood, "A Beautiful Thing" also has a happy ending, although it takes a little bit of time to get there. This is a true coming-of-age story, in which two boys find love with one another in the face of disapproval from others. The ending, which features a touching dance scene in the street, is one of the best endings in a gay movie that I have ever seen.

"Touch of Pink"-This film, which also takes place in England (noticing a trend here?) follows a young man as he struggles to balance family (his mother doesn't know he's gay,) with his boyfriend's needs. Perhaps most interestingly, it also features the ghost of Carey Grant, who advises his young protege to avoid the mistakes he made in his own life. At once both touching and humorous, this film definitely deserves its place on the list of top gay films.

If you're settling in for a date night of watching films with your loved one, the consider any one of these great gay-themed movies. You'll be touched and richly rewarded by taking the time to watch them.