7 Films/Series Worth Your Time This Pride Month
Of love, life and representation
“A picture is worth a thousand words.”
Cinema uniquely captures the nuances of identity, love, and struggle, bringing stories to life in ways that resonate deeply with viewers.
As Pride Month rolls around, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in films that offer a window into the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Here are seven films that I loved watching which I think you will love too:
1. Joyland
Saim Sadiq’s debut movie Joyland was one of the most talked about films of 2022.
Once banned in many parts of Pakistan, the film has unconventional storytelling and explores the complexities of desire, identity and societal expectations.
Joyland excels in the treatment of its subject matter. The film is made with extreme sensitivity and is utterly non-judgmental.
The story revolves around a young man torn between familial duties and his aspirations, navigating through societal norms and personal freedom. But it’s not just about him.
It’s also about what it’s like to be a gender minority in a society that barely sees them.
The film has individuals who feel claustrophobic and trapped in life. All they want is to run away to happiness for a little while. This happiness is represented by a nearby amusement park where the film gets its title.
The film’s visual storytelling is enhanced by its exceptional cinematography, capturing the essence of Pakistan’s urban and cultural landscape.
The use of light and shadow, and the meticulously crafted scenes immerse you into the world of Joyland.
2. Happy Together
Happy Together, directed by Wong Kar-wai, masterfully explores the intricacies of love, loss, and longing.
This film is a poignant portrayal of a tumultuous relationship, showcasing Wong Kar-wai’s unparalleled ability to delve into human emotion.
Set against the backdrop of Buenos Aires, Happy Together follows the volatile romance between Lai Yiu-fai and Ho Po-wing.
Wong Kar-wai’s direction brings out the raw, unfiltered emotions of the characters, with Tony Leung and Leslie Cheung delivering unforgettable performances that capture the pain and ecstasy of their love affair.
The film’s visual style is a feast for the eyes, featuring Christopher Doyle’s stunning cinematography juxtaposing the stark, neon-lit urban landscape with the intimate, tender moments shared by the protagonists. Part of the film is in black and white.
3. Kaathal the Core
Kaathal: The Core, directed by Jeo Baby, is a heartfelt exploration of love and relationships. The Malayalam word ‘Kaathal’ means ‘core’ or ‘essence’ of something.
The film’s narrative is treated with extraordinary subtlety evident in every frame and performance. I don’t think I have watched any film that portrays powerful moments and emotions through silence. It’s a treat to watch.
Set in a picturesque village in Kerala, Kaathal: The Core follows the lives of a couple navigating the challenges of their marriage amidst societal pressures.
Jeo Baby’s direction shines through in the authentic portrayal of everyday struggles and intimate moments, with standout performances that bring depth and realism to the characters.
Kaathal: The Core was one of the best films from Malayalam Cinema in 2023.
Mammooty, one of the biggest stars in India was appreciated for his performance and for not only taking up a role that the other superstars shy away from doing but also for producing an important film like this, making the subject matter more mainstream.
It created a huge political and cultural discourse not only in Kerala but also in other Indian states.
4. Mysterious Skin
Mysterious Skin, directed by Gregg Araki, is a haunting exploration of trauma, identity, and the search for truth.
Adapted from Scott Heim’s novel, this film delves into the lives of two boys who experience a shared traumatic event, yet cope with it in vastly different ways.
Set in a small Kansas town, Mysterious Skin follows the divergent paths of Neil McCormick and Brian Lackey.
The film navigates through their complex emotions and fragmented memories, gradually revealing the harrowing truth that connects them.
Araki’s direction is sensitive, capturing the raw pain and confusion of the characters. But there are shocking scenes which might not be for the faint-hearted.
The film’s visual style is striking, blending vivid, almost dreamlike sequences and stark realism that enhances the emotional impact.
The performances are strong, with Gordon-Levitt and Corbet delivering nuanced portrayals that bring depth and authenticity to their characters.
5. Carol
Carol, directed by Todd Haynes, is a stunning and emotionally rich exploration of forbidden love and societal constraints.
Based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel The Price of Salt, the film captures the delicate nuances of a romance between two women in 1950s America.
Carol follows the story of Therese Belivet, a young aspiring photographer played by Rooney Mara, and Carol Aird, an elegant, enigmatic woman portrayed by Cate Blanchett.
Their chance meeting sparks an undeniable connection that evolves into a deeply affecting love affair.
The film’s cinematography, characterized by its lush colour palette and intimate framing, enhances the period detail and emotional depth.
The visual storytelling is complemented by Carter Burwell’s hauntingly beautiful score, which underscores the film’s themes of longing and desire.
Blanchett and Mara deliver extraordinary performances, bringing authenticity and vulnerability to their roles. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, making their journey all the more compelling.
I am including two award-winning Thai series usually categorized into popular genres. I love them for their extraordinary storytelling that deserves mainstream recognition.
6. I Told Sunset About You
“At times sensual, at times heartbreaking, Sunset was a well-rounded, coming-of-age drama with good writing, and beautiful cinematography to match.”
— Bangkok Post
If you love the movie Call Me By Your Name, you’ll adore this 2020 Thai coming-of-age series. It captures a similar mood and the influence is undeniable, but even better if I may say so.
I Told Sunset About You directed by Naruebet Kuno is about friendship, teenage rivalry, dreams, and love, with characters rich in angst and complexity.
Protagonists Teh and Oh-Aew experience a whirlwind of emotions as they navigate their ambitions, unrequited love, confusion, and identity crises.
The love story is intensely passionate, with the filmmaking brilliantly capturing the essence of their relationship through stunning camerawork and subtle symbolism.
Many scenes convey deep emotions without a single word of dialogue.
I have never seen a movie or series that presents such unique and touching romantic moments between its characters.
Sunset was the most popular Thai series of 2020 and it won accolades at the Seoul International Drama Awards
7. Moonlight Chicken
Don’t let the title of this series deter you. Moonlight Chicken is so much more than its name suggests.
I was initially apprehensive about the title, but it perfectly fits the plot. The series is directed by Aof Noppharnach Chaiwimol who is arguably one of the best in drawing out the finest performances from his actors.
Moonlight Chicken has a tightly written screenplay, packed into just eight episodes. It explores complex relationship dynamics and the characters' emotional baggage, impacting their daily lives.
Set in rural Thailand and primarily shot at night, the series has exceptional camerawork and some breathtaking montages that make it stunning. The music is soulful and nostalgic, perfectly complementing the series’ tone.
As you watch this series you feel like you are walking the lanes of Thailand with these characters at beautiful midnights.
It also features the classic song “The Moon Represents My Heart” which aptly fits the narrative.
Here is a track I loved:
I hope some of these movies make it to your watchlist. They won’t disappoint you for sure.
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© Arya James 2024
