Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to cozy up and watch some beautiful love stories. Netflix has an amazing collection of LGBTQ+ romance movies that are all about love in its many forms. Whether you’re planning a quiet night in by yourself, with your partner, or with friends, we’ve got the perfect list of movies that’ll make your heart flutter. From stories that’ll make you laugh to those that’ll bring a tear to your eye, we’re here to help you find the perfect movie to watch this Valentine’s Day. So, grab some popcorn, get comfy, and let’s dive into the world of LGBTQ+ love and romance on Netflix. Love is love, and we’re all here for it!
1. Good Grief ( 2023)
“Good Grief,” released in limited theaters on December 29, 2023, and Netflix on January 5, 2024, is a film directed and written by Dan Levy. The cast includes Daniel Levy, Ruth Negga, Himesh Patel, Luke Evans, and others. The story follows Marc, mourning his husband’s loss, as he and his two best friends embark on a journey of grief and acceptance.
2. Elisa & Marcela (2019)
“Elisa & Marcela” is a 2019 Spanish biographical romantic drama directed by Isabel Coixet. The film stars Natalia de Molina and Greta Fernández and tells the true story of Elisa Sánchez Loriga and Marcela Gracia Ibeas, who became the first same-sex couple to marry in Spain in 1901 by posing as a heterosexual couple.
3. Nuovo Olimpo (2023)
“Nuovo Olimpo” is a 2023 Italian romantic drama directed by Ferzan Özpetek. It narrates the love story of two men in late-1970s Rome, facing unexpected separation. Premiered at the Rome Film Festival and released on Netflix, this film explores themes of love, loss, and hope over decades.
4. The Half of It ( 2020)
“The Half of It” is a 2020 American coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Alice Wu. The film, which stars Leah Lewis, Daniel Diemer, and Alexxis Lemire, revolves around a shy, introverted student named Ellie Chu who agrees to write a love letter for a jock, only to find herself falling for his crush.
5. Bros (2022)
“Bros” is a 2022 American romantic comedy directed by Nicholas Stoller and stars Billy Eichner and Luke Macfarlane. The story revolves around two gay men in Manhattan, exploring themes of commitment and love. Notable for being one of the first major studio films with an openly LGBTQ+ principal cast, it premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival before a wider release.
6. Call Me By Your Name (2017)
“Call Me by Your Name” is a 2017 romantic drama directed by Luca Guadagnino, based on André Aciman’s novel. Set in 1983 Italy, it explores the relationship between 17-year-old Elio Perlman (Timothée Chalamet) and Oliver (Armie Hammer), a 24-year-old graduate student. The film is notable for its critical acclaim, particularly for its screenplay, direction, cinematography, and performances, winning the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. It is part of Guadagnino’s “Desire” trilogy, with a production journey starting in 2007.
7. Ride or Die (2021)
“Ride or Die” is a 2021 Japanese psychological thriller romance film directed by Ryuichi Hiroki, based on the manga series “Gunjō” by Ching Nakamura. The story revolves around Rei, a lesbian in her late 20s, who kills her former classmate and teenage crush Nanae’s abusive husband to prove her love. The film, starring Kiko Mizuhara and Honami Sato, explores the complex emotions and struggles that arise as Rei and Nanae turn to each other for love.
8. I Carry You With Me (2021)
“I Carry You with Me” is a Spanish-language drama directed by Heidi Ewing, spotlighting a love story that spans decades between an aspiring chef and a teacher from Mexico who journeyed to New York City. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 26, 2020, earning the NEXT Innovator and Audience Awards, and was released in the U.S. and Mexico in 2021. It has received critical acclaim, notably for its storytelling and emotional depth.
9. Single All The Way (2021)
“Single All the Way” is a 2021 Canadian Christmas romantic comedy directed by Michael Mayer, focusing on a man who convinces his best friend to pretend they’re dating during the holidays to avoid family judgment. The Netflix release features Michael Urie, Philemon Chambers, and Kathy Najimy among others. It explores themes of love, friendship, and the pressures of societal expectations during the festive season.
10. Happiest Season (2020)
“Happiest Season” is a 2020 holiday romantic comedy-drama directed by Clea DuVall, featuring Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis. The story revolves around a woman planning to propose to her girlfriend during Christmas at her family’s home, only to discover her girlfriend hasn’t come out to her conservative parents. The film, which offers a semi-autobiographical take from DuVall’s own experiences, was praised for its ensemble cast and received positive reviews. It also won a GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Film – Wide Release.
This Valentine’s Day, Netflix has a great selection of LGBTQ+ romance movies that are perfect for everyone. From heartwarming tales of first love to the complexities of relationships that stand the test of time, these films offer a glimpse into the different forms of love within our LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re celebrating love, friendship, or the joy of self-discovery, Netflix has something special for everyone. Explore these captivating stories that not only entertain but also inspire acceptance and understanding. Make this Valentine’s Day memorable by diving into the best LGBTQ+ romance movies.
