LGBTQ+ representation and same-sex partnerships on screen have not always been the main focus of mainstream cinema. While this is changing positively, with more LGBTQ+ storylines being on-screen in recent years, there is still plenty to be done in order for films to portray authentic gay relationships and identities.
While this is the case, Jim Parsons is starring in an upcoming release, Spoiler Alert, which is a mainstream film placing a same-sex relationship at its center. The story will follow him falling in love with another man during the festive season and them having to navigate the trials of life. With a heartwarming and hopeful tone, there is also a small legacy of uplifting and powerful LGBTQ+ films set during the holiday season that came before, which are also well worth a watch.
6 Happiest Season (2020)
Starring Kristin Stewart and Mackenzie Davis, Happiest Season revolves around Abby, a young gay woman wanting to propose to her fiancée, Harper, only to discover that Harper has not yet come out to her parents. While this plot is reminiscent of several LGBTQ+ films that deal with its protagonist being in the closet, this one does so with a lot more heart and authenticity.
This film does well to address that coming out is different for everyone and is especially challenging during the holiday season. Clea DuVall's direction ensures that Abby and Harper's relationship still feels fresh and exciting to its audience. It is a charming, holiday rom-com watch, with some fantastic performances from supporting cast members such as Dan Levy and Aubrey Plaza.
5 Tangerine (2015)
Shot entirely on an iPhone and set in the heart of Christmas in Hollywood, Sean Baker's film focuses on Sin-Dee and her best friend, Alexandra, seeking to confront Sin-Dee's boyfriend for having an affair. Despite being a challenging watch at times, the memorable moments of Tangerine are its laugh-out-loud comedy moments using real-life dialogue.
While Tangerine is not the most conventional Christmas film, it is a fantastic depiction of the struggles that black transgender women encounter every day. It is not always a positive watch, but the solidarity and love that the women have in their friendships with each other are wonderful. The humor that they exude despite their hardships is equally hilarious and hopeful. It is refreshing to see an alternative portrayal of the festive season.
4 Holiday Heart (2000)
Based on the play by Cheryl L. West, a gay man befriends a mother and daughter in the hope of helping them. It was originally aired in 2000 during the festive season to attract a wide LGBTQ+ audience. Although a heavy watch, it is heartwarming to see the importance of chosen family and community take center stage.
It was groundbreaking for its time for the film to place a gay black man as the film's protagonist. Set around Christmas time, the dynamic between Holiday and the young Niki is kind and gentle, as opposed to the challenges that they have faced. Alfre Woodard's performance as Niki's mother, Wanda, is raw and incredibly powerful as she handles the struggles of addiction. Although a hard watch, Holiday Heart is definitely an empowering one.
3 A New York Christmas Wedding (2020)
This Netflix film is both beautiful and bittersweet as it considers what might have been if a bride-to-be had followed her true feelings for her childhood best friend. Protagonist Jennifer must confront her true feelings in an alternative reality in order to accept her true self. This film is nothing new or exciting, but it is just a sweet watch.
While the plot is not realistic or plausible in any way, it does have a kind message about happiness and hope. Jennifer learning to be more present in the moment is a fun bit of festive cheer, but also very bittersweet. The same-sex love story depicted in the film feels authentic and is the most captivating part of the film. Viewers who love a movie with lots of escapism and a bit of magic will love this movie.
2 Single All The Way (2021)
Netflix's first attempt at a gay Christmas film actually turned out well. Peter, who is always single for the holidays, invites his longtime best friend to his family home for Christmas and both learn more about each other than they could have imagined. Starring Michael Urie and Philemon Chambers, Single All The Way is terribly cheesy, but there is something sweet about its story.
Despite a shaky start, the film picks itself back up and is actually very funny in a corny kind of way. Co-stars actually have a depth to their personalities and backstories and the story is sweet and romantic without being too awkward. With a powerhouse cast like Kathy Najimy and Jennifer Coolidge, the film successfully pokes fun at the stereotypical 'gay' holiday film by creating comedy in a safe environment where all gay characters can be open and loved.
1 Carol (2015)
With Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, there is no surprise that Carol remains one of the best festive LGBTQ+ films. Set over the Christmas period in 1950s New York, Therese and Carol meet and fall in love completely unexpectedly. With its fantastic production value and tender and thoughtful script, fans and LGBTQ+ audiences will continue to come back to this film during the festive period.
Although Christmas is not the key theme of Carol and Therese's journey, most of the action is set around the winter and festive months. Blanchett and Mara's chemistry is undeniably gentle and romantic and groundbreaking for its time considering that their love story was first written in the 1950s. Carol also sets a precedent for future LGBTQ+ storylines set during Christmas and that filmmakers can always do better for gay audiences.