10 reasons to stay in this Valentine’s Day
[dropcap]W[/dropcap]hether you’re a couple or single; looking to laugh, cry or just swear off relationships all together; there is something in this list of movie gems to give you exactly what you really want this Valentines day… well a good movie at least.
1. The Birdcage (1996)
IMDB: 7.0/10
The late, great Robin Williams’ turn as an OTT cabaret club owner and his diva drag queen partner, portrayed by the sassy and ludicrous Nathan Lane is a laugh out loud comedy of errors as the two try to “play it straight” for their sons ultra right-wing conservative in laws. Shade is thrown. Laughs are had.
2. Beautiful thing (1996)
IMDB: 7.7/10
This story adapted from the stage play (by Jonathan Harvey) is loaded with inner turmoil, self discovery, family trouble, abuse, fear, love and acceptance that every struggling young gay man can identify with. Set to a backdrop of 90’s London, it manages to warm your heart, split your sides and make you root for young love.
Adam & Steve (2005)
IMDB: 6.0/10
The ever so common boy meets girl romcom is subverted to great effect in this guy meets guy story of embarrassment, forgotten pasts and missed opportunities. Absolutely crammed with laughs, this lesser known gem is a must watch for Parker Posey’s hilarity alone.
Milk (2008)
IMDB: 7.6/10
Need I say more? The true and inspirational story of Harvey Milk’s campaign for LGBT rights and his foray in politics is one that still resonates, especially in today’s political world. His passion was unequaled and Sean Penn’s portrayal was magnificent, earning him the Academy Award.
Moonlight (2016)
IMDB: 8.0/10
This multi-layered story chronicles the life of Chiron, an African American boy living in the shadow of drug abuse, violence and sexual confusion whilst trying to find his way through the turmoil of his life. The star turns of Mahershala Ali & Naomie Harris earned them both Oscar nods this year.
Pride (2014)
IMDB: 7.8/10
This historical-comedy is based on a true story and depicts the support of the Welsh Miners by an LGBT group. When the two worlds collide there is tension, humour, hostility and self-discovery on both sides. There are real laugh out loud moments; yet still shows what can be achieved through acceptance and equality.
Philadelphia (1993)
IMDB: 7.7/10
The story of one mans fight against his employers after he is wrongfully dismissed; after it’s discovered he is suffering from AIDS is an emotional tirade. Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington are both radiant throughout. Personally, I have never managed to sit through this film without tears flowing.
Tangerine (2015)
This indie film is shot entirely on iPhones and is the story of Sin-Dee, a trans sex worker who discovers her boyfriend (and pimp), has been cheating on her. Backdrop includes Hollywood on Xmas eve and is pure brilliance.
The Adventures of Priscilla Queen of the Desert (1994)
IMDB: 7.5/10
If you haven’t already seen “Priscilla”, either on stage or screen, then what are you doing with yourselves? A road trip movie with cabaret singing drag queens and a trans women is vivid, bold and original. Drag is the Drug.
Boys Don’t Cry (1999)
IMDB: 7.6/10
Before she was “Million Dollar Baby”, Hilary Swank was mesmerising as Brandon, a female-born transsexual looking to find himself, love and acceptance in Middle America. This look at trans acceptance and persecution is filled with romance and intense drama. A must see.
