Menu: Perfect Picks for Teens
31 Beautiful LGBTQ+ Teen Rom-Coms and Rom-Dramas to Brighten Your Day
by Jamie Carter
Updated: May 6, 2022
Originally Published: Sep. 24, 2021
Teen romantic comedies and coming-of-age tales have been a staple of cinema for decades. However, it was only in 2018, with the release of Love, Simon, that we witnessed a polished teen rom-com focused on a young man’s journey of coming out. Unlike many films that portray teens facing dire consequences for their sexuality, Love, Simon offers a refreshing narrative where the protagonist’s struggles are seamlessly integrated into a fun and thoughtful storyline.
The significance of Love, Simon in terms of LGBTQ+ representation cannot be overstated. As film critic Lisa Johnson noted in her review, “Recent films like Call Me by Your Name and Blue Is the Warmest Color showcase characters who are not punished for their sexuality, marking important progress. But Love, Simon stands out as a mainstream film aimed specifically at teenagers.” Who doesn’t enjoy a relatable teen movie that breaks away from traditional norms? If you’re eager for more films like Love, Simon, here’s a list to dive into.
Must-Watch Movies Like Love, Simon
- Alex Strangelove (2018)
Daniel Doheny stars as Alex Truelove, a high school student navigating friendships, academics, and the challenges of adolescence. His mission to lose his virginity to his girlfriend, played by Madeline Weinstein, gets complicated when he develops feelings for a classmate, Elliot. Critics have described it as “a new-age John Hughes film with plenty of humor and heart.” - Call Me By Your Name (2017)
While not a typical teen movie, Call Me By Your Name follows a young man’s transformative summer romance. Set in picturesque Italy, this film explores themes of love and self-discovery, making it a poignant watch for older teens. - The Thing About Harry (2020)
With a TV-14 rating, this film is more suited for older teens. Though it hints at intimate moments, it emphasizes a sweet love story between its charming characters, including Dr. Levi Schmitt from Grey’s Anatomy, portrayed by Jake Borelli. - The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Based on the beloved novel, this film tells the story of a shy boy grappling with trauma while trying to fit in. Prepare for an emotional journey complemented by a fantastic soundtrack.
More Movies to Explore
- Booksmart (2019)
- Geography Club (2013)
- Akron (2015)
- Moonlight (2016)
- Edge of Seventeen (1998)
- Boys (2014)
- Shelter (2007)
- The Way He Looks (2014)
- Handsome Devil (2016)
- Hidden Kisses (2016)
- Latter Days (2003)
- Being 17 (2016)
- Beautiful Thing (1996)
- Water Lilies (2007)
- Lost and Delirious (2001)
- Dating Amber (2020)
- Life Partners (2014)
- Every Day (2018)
- Weekend (2011)
- Lady Bird (2017)
- Boy Erased (2018)
- The Half Of It (2020)
- North Sea Texas (2011)
- Giant Little Ones (2018)
- Heartstone (2016)
- My Own Private Idaho (1991)
- Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013)
This collection of films celebrates the LGBTQ+ experience and showcases the beauty of love in all its forms. For a deeper dive into related topics, check out this article or learn more about home insemination kits at Make a Mom. Also, if you’re looking for guidance on pregnancy, visit March of Dimes for excellent resources.
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