10 Classic Lesbian Movies on Netflix: You Must-Watch List
Looking for the best lesbian movies on Netflix? Whether you're planning a cozy movie night or searching for authentic LGBTQ+ stories, Netflix's 2024 collection has something special waiting for you. We've curated a list of must-watch films that range from heart-fluttering romances to thrilling dramas.
1. Carol
Theme & Date: Romance - 2015
This stunning period drama starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara remains one of the most beautiful lesbian films ever made. Set in 1950s New York, it follows the forbidden romance between an older woman going through a divorce and a young department store clerk.
Why You'll Love It:
- Breathtaking cinematography and costume design
- Powerhouse performances from both leads
- Slow-burn romance that'll make your heart ache
- Based on Patricia Highsmith's acclaimed novel
2. Blue Is the Warmest Color
Theme & Date: Self Discovery - 2013
This powerful French film follows Adèle's journey of self-discovery and first love when she meets the free-spirited artist Emma. It's an intimate and honest portrayal of young love and personal growth.
What You'll Love
- Raw, emotional storytelling
- Award-winning performances
- Deep character development
- Beautiful cinematography
3. Disobedience
Theme & Date: Drama - 2017
Starring Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams, this compelling drama tells the story of a woman who returns to her Orthodox Jewish community and reconnects with a childhood friend. Their forbidden attraction challenges their beliefs and community expectations.
Highlights
- Strong performances from acclaimed actors
- Complex exploration of faith and love
- Intense chemistry between leads
- Thoughtful handling of cultural themes
4. The Handmaiden (아가씨)
Theme & Date: Drama - 2016
This stunning Korean film sets the bar for lesbian cinema. Set in 1930s Korea, it follows a young woman who becomes a handmaiden to a Japanese heiress, but nothing is quite what it seems. Director Park Chan-wook creates a masterpiece that combines romance, suspense, and gorgeous period details.
Why You'll Be Hooked
- Intricate plot twists
- Beautiful period costumes
- Intense romance
- Award-winning cinematography
Note: This film is rated R and contains mature content.
5. Portrait of a Lady on Fire
Theme & Date: Romance - 2019
If you love period romances that take your breath away, this French masterpiece is for you. Set against the stunning backdrop of 18th-century France, it tells the story of an artist who falls deeply in love with the woman she's commissioned to paint.
What Makes It Special
- Breathtaking cinematography
- Slow-burn romance that'll make your heart ache
- Beautiful costumes and setting
- Powerful performances from both leads
6. Crush
Theme & Date: Rom-Com - 2022
Finally, a teen lesbian rom-com that's both cute and relatable! This sweet story follows a young artist forced to join her high school track team, where she falls for an unexpected someone. It's the kind of movie that'll make you smile and remember your own high school crushes.
Why You'll Love It:
- Super cute romantic moments
- Funny and light-hearted
- Great for a feel-good movie night
- Actually feels like real high school life
7. The Half of It
Theme & Date: Self-Discovery - 2020
Netflix struck gold with this modern twist on Cyrano de Bergerac. Meet Ellie Chu, a shy straight-A student who helps the school jock write love letters - but plot twist: they're to a girl she's crushing on too! This movie is smart, sweet, and refreshingly different from your typical teen romance.
Standout Features
- Clever writing that'll make you laugh
- Authentic characters you'll relate to
- Touching friendship story
- Perfect mix of humor and heart
8. Duck Butter
Theme & Date: Self-Discovery - 2018
Ever wonder what happens when you try to cram a whole relationship into 24 hours? This unique love story follows two women who decide to skip the small talk and dive right in, spending an entire day and night together. It's raw, real, and might make you think differently about your own relationships.
Quick Take
- Fresh take on modern relationships
- Real conversations about love
- Great for indie film lovers
- Interesting 24-hour concept
9. A Secret Love
Theme & Date: Documentary - 2020
This beautiful documentary follows Terry Donahue and Pat Henschel, who hid their relationship for nearly seven decades. It's a touching portrait of enduring love and the cost of living in secrecy.
Why Watch
- Real-life love story spanning decades
- Historical context of LGBTQ+ life in America
- Intimate look at aging and caregiving
- Powerful testament to lasting love
10. Elisa & Marcela
Theme & Date: Romance - 2019
Based on a true story from 1901 Spain, this black-and-white film follows two women who marry each other when one disguises herself as a man. It's a powerful tale of love defying societal constraints.
What Makes It Special
- Based on real historical events
- Beautiful black-and-white cinematography
- Explores themes of identity and forbidden love
- Netflix original production
How to Find More Lesbian Content on Netflix
Netflix's lesbian movie collection can be hard to navigate through regular browsing. Here are some pro tips:
Netflix Secret Codes:
- Use code 5977 for "Gay & Lesbian Movies"
- Code 4720 for "Gay & Lesbian Documentaries"
- Code 500 for "Gay & Lesbian Dramas"
- Code 3329 for "Romantic Gay & Lesbian Movies"
Conclusion
Whether you're in the mood for intense drama like "The Handmaiden," sweet romance like "Crush," or period pieces like "Portrait of a Lady on Fire." These Lesbian films show how far LGBTQ+ representation has come, giving us complex, real characters in stories that go beyond just coming out.
