The best gay movies of 2018

As 2018 draws to a close, PinkNews looks at the best gay films released across the year in queer cinema.

2018 saw gay movies break into the mainstream with Love, Simon and The Miseducation of Cameron Post, while plenty of other releases championed queer representation. We list the best gay movies with descriptions about them.

Rafiki

One of 2018’s most acclaimed gay movies was banned by Kenya because of its “homosexual theme and clear intent to promote lesbianism” (Rafiki)

This vivid, vibrant love story from Kenyan director Wanuri Kahiu stars Samantha Mugatsia and Sheila Munyiva as the daughters of two rival political candidates, falling in love and navigating homophobia attitudes.

The gay film made its debut at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival to overwhelming acclaim, but was banned in Kenya overs its gay themes.

But the ban hasn’t prevented global audiences falling in love with Rafiki, which has screened at major film festivals around the world.

Freak Show

Billy Bloom played by Alex Lawther in Freak Show. (BFI)

Despite a quiet commercial release in January, this comedy-drama starring Alex Lawther of The End of the F***ing World fame has earned praise from LGBT+ audiences for its nuanced and warm-hearted portrayal of gender non-confirming teen Billy as a fish out-of-water in a small conservative town.

Add in a scene-stealing turn from Bette Midler as Billy’s ‘Muv’ and a cameo from trans actor Laverne Cox, and you have the makings of a queer classic.

Based on the novel by James St James, Trudie Styler‘s directorial debut sends out a clear message of inclusivity to anyone who has ever felt different.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post

Chloë Grace Moretz, Sasha Lane and Forrest Goodluck in The Miseducation of Cameron Post, one of two 2018 gay films based on gay ‘cure’ therapy (Vertigo Releasing)

In one of two major gay movies in 2018 to tackle the subject of gay ‘cure’ therapy, grown-up Kick-Ass star Chloë Grace Moretz plays a teen caught having a sexual encounter with another girl.