Best LGBTQ+ Couples in Movies

Love stories on the big screen come in countless forms, and some of the most memorable follow couples whose relationships unfold outside the straight mainstream. This list brings together cinematic pairs whose romances drive the narrative, shape the stakes, and anchor the performances with character detail, historical context, and craft choices that made these films stand out.

Below, you’ll find couples from dramas, romances, thrillers, and coming-of-age stories across a range of countries and styles. For each one, we’ve included plot essentials, cast and crew facts, source material where relevant, and other production details—so you can easily spot what to watch next or revisit.

‘Brokeback Mountain’ (2005) – Ennis Del Mar & Jack Twist

Set across the American West, the story follows ranch hand Ennis Del Mar and rodeo cowboy Jack Twist as they form a bond while herding sheep on Brokeback Mountain and struggle to sustain it amid marriages, distance, and secrecy. Heath Ledger plays Ennis and Jake Gyllenhaal plays Jack, with Michelle Williams and Anne Hathaway in key supporting roles that intersect with the couple’s attempts to navigate family and work.

Ang Lee directs from a screenplay by Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana, adapted from Annie Proulx’s short story. Rodrigo Prieto handles cinematography, Gustavo Santaolalla provides the score, and the production was mounted by Focus Features and River Road, emphasizing natural locations that frame the pair’s meetings and separations.

‘Call Me by Your Name’ (2017) – Elio Perlman & Oliver

In northern Italy, teenager Elio Perlman and his family host graduate student Oliver, whose arrival reshapes Elio’s summer through shared music, literature, swimming, and long walks that bring the two closer. Timothée Chalamet portrays Elio and Armie Hammer portrays Oliver, with Michael Stuhlbarg, Amira Casar, and Esther Garrel rounding out the ensemble.

Luca Guadagnino directs, with a screenplay by James Ivory based on André Aciman’s novel. Sayombhu Mukdeeprom’s cinematography captures sun-washed exteriors and intimate interiors, and the soundtrack features work by Sufjan Stevens alongside period tracks, all released by Sony Pictures Classics.

‘Carol’ (2015) – Carol Aird & Therese Belivet

A department-store encounter in New York sets photographer Therese Belivet on a path toward a relationship with Carol Aird, a woman navigating a difficult divorce and custody dispute. Rooney Mara plays Therese, Cate Blanchett plays Carol, and Kyle Chandler and Sarah Paulson appear in roles tied to the couple’s personal and legal pressures.

Todd Haynes directs from Phyllis Nagy’s adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel ‘The Price of Salt’. Edward Lachman’s Super 16mm cinematography and Carter Burwell’s score shape the film’s look and sound, while production design by Judy Becker details homes, hotels, and stores that trace the pair’s travels.

‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ (2019) – Marianne & Héloïse

On a remote Breton island, painter Marianne is hired to create a wedding portrait of Héloïse, who resists being observed; their walks, conversations, and clandestine sittings gradually lead to a romance. Noémie Merlant plays Marianne and Adèle Haenel plays Héloïse, with Luàna Bajrami and Valeria Golino in supporting parts.

Céline Sciamma writes and directs, collaborating with cinematographer Claire Mathon to emphasize candlelit interiors and windswept cliffs. The film was produced by Lilies Films and Arte France Cinéma, with sparse use of music and detailed period costuming that supports its focus on gaze, memory, and art.

‘Moonlight’ (2016) – Chiron & Kevin

Told in three chapters, the film follows Chiron as a child, teenager, and adult while his connection with Kevin threads through schoolyard encounters, separation, and a later-life reunion. The role of Chiron is played by Alex Hibbert, Ashton Sanders, and Trevante Rhodes across the timelines; Kevin is portrayed by Jaden Piner, Jharrel Jerome, and André Holland, alongside Naomie Harris and Mahershala Ali.

Barry Jenkins directs from a screenplay adapted from Tarell Alvin McCraney’s play ‘In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue’. James Laxton’s cinematography and Nicholas Britell’s score shape the mood, and the film was produced by A24, Plan B Entertainment, and Pastel, with Miami locations grounding the story.

‘Blue Is the Warmest Color’ (2013) – Adèle & Emma

High-school student Adèle begins a relationship with art student Emma after a chance encounter, and the film follows their life together through studies, work, friends, and the challenges of growing up. Adèle Exarchopoulos plays Adèle and Léa Seydoux plays Emma, with support from a large ensemble of classmates, colleagues, and family.

Abdellatif Kechiche directs and co-writes with Ghalia Lacroix, drawing on Julie Maroh’s graphic novel ‘Blue Angel’. Handheld cinematography and extended scenes emphasize conversation and daily routines, and the production was released in multiple markets by Wild Bunch and IFC Films under the original title ‘La Vie d’Adèle – Chapitres 1 & 2’.

‘The Handmaiden’ (2016) – Sook-hee & Lady Hideko

A pickpocket named Sook-hee is hired as a maid to Lady Hideko as part of a con, but shifting loyalties, secret readings, and hidden rooms alter the scheme and bring the two women together. Kim Tae-ri plays Sook-hee and Kim Min-hee plays Hideko, with Ha Jung-woo and Cho Jin-woong as conspirators whose plans complicate the couple’s choices.

Park Chan-wook directs and co-writes with Chung Seo-kyung, adapting Sarah Waters’ novel ‘Fingersmith’ and transposing it to Korea under Japanese rule. Cinematography by Chung Chung-hoon, production design by Ryu Seong-hee, and music by Jo Yeong-wook contribute to elaborate settings released by CJ Entertainment and Amazon Studios in various territories.

‘Maurice’ (1987) – Maurice Hall & Alec Scudder

From public-school years through early adulthood, Maurice Hall’s path crosses with gamekeeper Alec Scudder as social class, university friendships, and family expectations push and pull their relationship. James Wilby plays Maurice, Rupert Graves plays Alec, and Hugh Grant appears as Clive Durham, whose choices influence the couple’s course.

James Ivory directs this Merchant Ivory production from E. M. Forster’s novel, with a screenplay by Ivory and Kit Hesketh-Harvey. Pierre Lhomme’s cinematography and Richard Robbins’ music complement period locations and costuming, while the film’s editing by Katherine Wenning keeps focus on the pair’s private and public worlds.

‘Weekend’ (2011) – Russell & Glen

After meeting at a bar, Russell and Glen spend a brief stretch of time together that spans conversations, parties, and plans that force them to define what they want from each other. Tom Cullen plays Russell and Chris New plays Glen, supported by actors portraying friends and neighbors who intersect with the couple’s short window.

Andrew Haigh writes and directs, shooting on location with cinematography by Ula Pontikos. The film was produced by Glendale Picture Company and distributed by Peccadillo Pictures and IFC Films, using naturalistic sound and framing to track the pair across flats, trains, and city streets.

‘God’s Own Country’ (2017) – Johnny Saxby & Gheorghe Ionescu

A young farmer in Yorkshire, Johnny Saxby, meets seasonal worker Gheorghe Ionescu during lambing season; long days on the hillsides and repairs around the farm pull them together amid family responsibilities. Josh O’Connor plays Johnny and Alec Secăreanu plays Gheorghe, with Gemma Jones and Ian Hart as relatives whose needs shape the farm’s routine.

Francis Lee writes and directs, with cinematography by Joshua James Richards emphasizing weather and landscape. The production was handled by British companies including BFI and Creative England partners, with distribution by Picturehouse Entertainment and Orion Classics, and field work staged around working farms.

‘Bound’ (1996) – Corky & Violet

An ex-con apartment renovator, Corky, and neighbor Violet plan to steal mob money and frame Violet’s boyfriend, setting off a series of double-crosses and close calls. Gina Gershon plays Corky, Jennifer Tilly plays Violet, and Joe Pantoliano appears as Caesar, whose suspicion propels the plot.

Written and directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski, the film features cinematography by Bill Pope and editing by Zach Staenberg. The neo-noir styling includes practical effects, tight interiors, and a soundtrack by Don Davis, with Gramercy Pictures releasing the film following a production backed by Dino De Laurentiis companies.

‘Desert Hearts’ (1985) – Vivian Bell & Cay Rivvers

An English professor, Vivian Bell, travels to Nevada for a quick divorce and meets free-spirited artist Cay Rivvers; their time at a Reno ranch leads to a romance challenged by social expectations. Helen Shaver plays Vivian and Patricia Charbonneau plays Cay, with Andra Akers and Audra Lindley among the supporting cast.

Donna Deitch directs and produces, adapting Jane Rule’s novel ‘Desert of the Heart’. Robert Elswit’s cinematography and Robert Estrin’s editing underscore the Western setting, and the film’s independently financed production led to theatrical distribution that brought the story to a wider audience.

‘Happy Together’ (1997) – Lai Yiu-fai & Ho Po-wing

Lai Yiu-fai and Ho Po-wing travel from Hong Kong to Buenos Aires, where break-ups, reconciliations, and new acquaintances complicate their efforts to restart together. Tony Leung Chiu-wai plays Lai and Leslie Cheung plays Ho, with Chang Chen as a co-worker whose friendship affects Lai’s outlook.

Wong Kar-wai writes and directs, collaborating with cinematographer Christopher Doyle on handheld, high-contrast images. The film features music by both Latin and Asian artists, uses locations across Argentina, and was produced by Jet Tone with international distribution by companies including Golden Harvest and Kino.

‘BPM (Beats per Minute)’ (2017) – Nathan & Sean

Within ACT UP Paris, HIV-positive activist Sean and newcomer Nathan build a relationship amid general assemblies, direct actions, and hospital visits. Nahuel Pérez Biscayart plays Sean and Arnaud Valois plays Nathan, with Adèle Haenel and Antoine Reinartz in key roles inside the group’s campaigns.

Robin Campillo writes and directs, drawing on firsthand experience, with editing that intercuts meetings and nightlife. Cinematography by Jeanne Lapoirie, music by Arnaud Rebotini, and production by Les Films de Pierre support a large ensemble cast and location work in offices, schools, and clinics.

‘Imagine Me & You’ (2005) – Rachel & Luce

At a London wedding, florist Luce meets bride Rachel, and the two form a connection that unfolds through family dinners, football matches, and bookstore visits as Rachel reassesses her life. Piper Perabo plays Rachel, Lena Headey plays Luce, and Matthew Goode plays Heck, the groom whose relationship with Rachel is central to the plot.

Ol Parker writes and directs this UK romantic comedy, with supporting performances by Anthony Head and Celia Imrie. The film was produced by Fragile Films and released by Entertainment Film Distributors and Focus Features, featuring a contemporary soundtrack and London locations.

‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ (1999) – Megan Bloomfield & Graham Eaton

High-school cheerleader Megan is sent to the True Directions conversion program, where group exercises, pink-and-blue chores, and supervised “graduation” plans are designed to enforce rigid roles; there she meets Graham. Natasha Lyonne plays Megan and Clea DuVall plays Graham, with Cathy Moriarty as program director Mary and RuPaul Charles as counselor Mike.

Jamie Babbit directs from a screenplay by Brian Wayne Peterson, with production design that uses bright color blocking and satirical props. The film was produced by Ignite Entertainment and released by Lions Gate/Trimark, with a soundtrack mixing pop and punk and cameos from performers tied to queer cinema.

‘Love, Simon’ (2018) – Simon Spier & Bram Greenfeld

Closeted teenager Simon Spier begins an online exchange with an anonymous classmate known as “Blue,” leading to a search for identity and a real-world connection with Bram Greenfeld amid school drama and family scenes. Nick Robinson plays Simon and Keiynan Lonsdale plays Bram, with Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp, Logan Miller, Jennifer Garner, and Josh Duhamel in supporting roles.

Greg Berlanti directs from a screenplay by Elizabeth Berger and Isaac Aptaker, adapting Becky Albertalli’s novel ‘Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda’. The film was produced by Temple Hill and released by 20th Century Fox, using Atlanta-area locations and a pop soundtrack to frame school events, home life, and emails.

‘The Way He Looks’ (2014) – Leonardo & Gabriel

Blind student Leonardo seeks independence from his protective parents and best friend Giovana, and the arrival of new classmate Gabriel leads to shared walks, school projects, and a budding romance. Ghilherme Lobo plays Leonardo, Fabio Audi plays Gabriel, and Tess Amorim plays Giovana, whose friendship is central to the story.

Daniel Ribeiro writes and directs, expanding his short ‘I Don’t Want to Go Back Alone’. Shot in São Paulo with cinematography by Pierre de Kerchove and a score featuring indie tracks, the film was released by Vitrine Filmes and Strand Releasing in different markets.

‘Saving Face’ (2004) – Wilhelmina “Wil” Pang & Vivian Shing

New York surgeon Wilhelmina Pang balances hospital shifts with family obligations in Flushing, and her relationship with dancer Vivian Shing develops alongside her mother’s unexpected return home. Michelle Krusiec plays Wil, Lynn Chen plays Vivian, and Joan Chen plays Wil’s mother, whose storyline intersects with the couple’s milestones.

Alice Wu writes and directs, focusing on Chinese-American community spaces, rehearsals, and apartment life. The film was produced by Will Smith’s Overbrook Entertainment and released by Sony Pictures Classics, with choreography sequences, multilingual dialogue, and location shooting around Queens and Manhattan.

‘The Favourite’ (2018) – Queen Anne & Abigail Masham

At the royal court, Abigail Masham rises from servant to confidante while Queen Anne navigates illness and state affairs; their relationship shifts amid political maneuvering and Sarah Churchill’s influence. Olivia Colman plays Queen Anne, Emma Stone plays Abigail, and Rachel Weisz plays Sarah, whose presence complicates the bond at the story’s center.

Yorgos Lanthimos directs from a screenplay by Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara. Robbie Ryan’s wide-angle cinematography, Sandy Powell’s costumes, and Fiona Crombie’s production design shape palace interiors and hunting grounds, with the film produced by Element Pictures, Scarlet Films, and Film4 and released by Fox Searchlight Pictures.

‘Benedetta’ (2021) – Benedetta Carlini & Bartolomea

In a Tuscan convent, novice Benedetta Carlini forms a relationship with Bartolomea while visions, church politics, and local crises converge around their lives. Virginie Efira plays Benedetta and Daphne Patakia plays Bartolomea, with Charlotte Rampling as the abbess whose authority clashes with events inside the convent.

Paul Verhoeven directs from a screenplay co-written with David Birke, inspired by Judith C. Brown’s book ‘Immodest Acts’. Cinematography by Jeanne Lapoirie, music by Anne Dudley, and production by Pathé and SBS Productions support period settings, processions, and communal rituals.

‘The Old Guard’ (2020) – Joe & Nicky

A team of immortal mercenaries includes Yusuf al-Kaysani (Joe) and Nicolò di Genova (Nicky), whose partnership spans centuries and remains central during a modern mission involving pharmaceutical interests and surveillance. Marwan Kenzari plays Joe and Luca Marinelli plays Nicky, alongside Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, and Chiwetel Ejiofor in the ensemble.

Gina Prince-Bythewood directs from a screenplay by Greg Rucka, adapting his and Leandro Fernández’s graphic novel. Filming took place across Europe and Morocco with cinematography by Barry Ackroyd and stunt coordination for large-scale action, released globally by Netflix after production by Skydance Media and Denver and Delilah.

‘The Danish Girl’ (2015) – Lili Elbe & Gerda Wegener

Painter Einar Wegener begins living as Lili Elbe with support from spouse Gerda Wegener, and the couple’s life together encompasses studio sessions, medical consultations, and art-world encounters. Eddie Redmayne plays Lili and Alicia Vikander plays Gerda, with Amber Heard, Ben Whishaw, and Matthias Schoenaerts in supporting roles tied to the art scene and the couple’s circle.

Tom Hooper directs from a screenplay by Lucinda Coxon inspired by David Ebershoff’s novel. Cinematography by Danny Cohen, costume design by Paco Delgado, and production design by Eve Stewart detail Copenhagen and Paris settings, with the film produced by Working Title and Pretty Pictures and released by Focus Features/Universal.

Share the couples you’d add—and the films you love for their craft, performances, and storytelling—in the comments!