In 2025, cinema showcased a diverse array of films featuring prominent gay characters or starring openly gay actors, reflecting the industry's ongoing commitment to inclusivity and representation. Here are ten notable films from that year:
1. "Tiger"
Directed by Anshul Chauhan, "Tiger" follows Taiga Katagiri, a 35-year-old closeted gay masseuse in Tokyo, portrayed by Takashi Kawaguchi. The film delves into the complexities of identity and family dynamics within Japan's LGBTQ+ community.
Lead Actors: Takashi Kawaguchi, Maho Nonami
2. "Pillion"
In this British romantic comedy-drama, Harry Melling plays Colin, a timid gay man who embarks on a BDSM relationship with Ray, an enigmatic biker portrayed by Alexander Skarsgård. The film explores themes of intimacy and self-discovery.
Lead Actors: Harry Melling, Alexander Skarsgård
3. "We'll Find Happiness"
Directed by Léa Pool, this Canadian drama stars Mehdi Meskar as Saad, a gay man from Morocco seeking refuge in Canada. The narrative unfolds as Saad attempts to secure his Iranian boyfriend's safety, highlighting the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ refugees.
Lead Actors: Mehdi Meskar, Aron Archer
4. "Sauna"
A Danish romantic drama directed by Mathias Broe, "Sauna" features Magnus Juhl Andersen as Johan, a gay man in Copenhagen who forms a deep connection with William, a trans man portrayed by Nina Rask. The film addresses themes of love, identity, and acceptance.
Lead Actors: Magnus Juhl Andersen, Nina Rask
5. "A Night Like This"
This British romantic drama, directed by Liam Calvert, stars Alexander Lincoln as Oliver, a struggling gay actor, and Jack Brett Anderson as Lukas, a wealthy businessman. Their unexpected encounter leads to a night of self-reflection and connection.
Lead Actors: Alexander Lincoln, Jack Brett Anderson
6. "Vanilla"
Directed by Joseph A. Adesunloye, "Vanilla" is a British LGBT romantic drama featuring Yann Gael as Bastien and Gabriel Winter as Matt. The film explores the complexities of an interracial gay couple attempting to repair their relationship during a holiday in Barcelona.
Lead Actors: Yann Gael, Gabriel Winter
7. "Blue Moon"
Richard Linklater's "Blue Moon" is a biographical drama about Lorenz Hart, the gay lyricist of the Rodgers and Hart songwriting duo. Ethan Hawke portrays Hart, with Andrew Scott as Oscar Hammerstein II. The film delves into Hart's personal and professional life.
Lead Actors: Ethan Hawke, Andrew Scott
8. "Kiss of the Spider Woman"
This musical adaptation of Manuel Puig's novel stars Jennifer Lopez as Molina, a gay hairdresser, and Diego Luna as Valentin, a political prisoner. Set in an Argentinian prison, the film explores themes of love, identity, and resilience.
Lead Actors: Jennifer Lopez, Diego Luna
9. "The Wedding Banquet"
Andrew Ahn's reimagining of Ang Lee's 1993 classic centers on Min and Chris, a gay couple in Seattle. To appease Min's traditional grandmother, they orchestrate a sham marriage, leading to comedic and heartfelt moments that explore family and identity.
Lead Actors: Kelly Marie Tran, Bowen Yang
10. "La Cage aux Folles"
Directed by Olivier Py, this revival of the classic musical features Laurent Lafitte as Albin/Zaza Napoli. The story of a gay couple running a drag cabaret in Saint-Tropez is reimagined to reflect contemporary themes of identity and acceptance.
Lead Actors: Laurent Lafitte
These films not only entertain but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue about LGBTQ+ representation in cinema, offering diverse narratives and performances that resonate with audiences worldwide.