After its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, Queer Film QueerStarring Daniel Craig and Drew Starr, it has been praised for its heartfelt exploration of love, identity, and self-discovery. As the film continues to gather global attention ahead of its release, we’ve curated a collection of audiobooks and films that celebrate a diverse spectrum of queer experiences. These recommendations are filled with stories of hope, resilience and connection, offering a deeper understanding of love and identity. From moving stories to feel-good stories, this collection is a must for anyone looking to explore the richness of queer storytelling.
listen to
Being Queer (audible)
Being Queer is a powerful anthology that offers a raw and real look at queer lives. The stories capture the complexities of love, identity and friendship through different voices.
From Heer and Sumira’s bond to Adira’s reflection on challenging the complexities of transgender experiences to how her parents’ divorce shaped her first love, this collection delves deep into the emotional landscapes of queer people. One standout story explores the journey to understanding asexuality, while another revisits an unexpected quetopia. This collection is an in-depth exploration of queer travel and provides insight into diverse queer experiences.
Under Desi Down (audible)
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Sydney’s Coogee Beach, Under Desi Down A coming-of-age story about childhood best friends – Devan, Meenu and their twin brother Rahul – who embark on their first foreign trip.
The story takes a turn when Rahul meets Taylor, an Italian resident who challenges his fear of commitment. What begins as a playful flirtation soon begins an exciting journey of self-discovery, love and emotional growth. Full of humor, adventure and romance, Under Desi Down A celebration of courage, self-acceptance, and love.
Shikhandi and other queer stories they don’t tell you (audible)
in Shikhandi and other queer stories they don’t tell youLegendary legend Devdutt Patnaik reimagines Indian mythology and its quirky characters. By exploring ancient Hindu stories such as Shikhandi, who changed gender to marry his wife, and Mahadeva, who became a woman to help a devotee, Pattanayak challenges contemporary notions of gender and identity.
The audiobook offers an in-depth exploration of queerness from an Indian perspective, blending ancient wisdom with modern-day understandings of gender fluidity and queer identity. This thought-provoking listen offers a deep dive into an under-explored side of Indian mythology and quirky history.
Red, white and royal blue (audible)
A sizzling enemy-to-lover romance, Red, white and royal blue Casey McQuiston follows Alex Claremont-Diaz, the adorable son of the US president, who finds himself reluctantly attracted to Britain’s Prince Henry after a scandalous photo makes headlines. Initially staged as a truce to protect their reputations, their relationship deepens, and their secret romance becomes a thrilling journey of self-discovery and passion. Set against a backdrop of political intrigue and familial pressure, this romantic tale is full of heart, humor, and emotional depth, making it a captivating listen.
to see
Joyland (Amazon Prime Video)
Joyland is a bold and emotional exploration of love, identity and defiance. Set in a family struggling with deep-rooted cultural expectations, the story centers on Haider, the youngest son, who secretly dares to fulfill his desires by joining a sensual dance theater.
There he falls for Biba, a trans starlet. Their love story challenges patriarchal expectations of family and offers a tender look at the courage needed to live authentically. Joyland A thought-provoking film that explores the complex dynamics of family, tradition and love, offering a raw, unflinching portrayal of eccentric desire in a conservative society.
Call me by your name (Amazon Prime Video)
Set in the idyllic summer of 1983 in Italy, Call me by your name Follows Elio, a 17-year-old boy, who is spending the summer with his family in their villa. Elio’s world is turned upside down when Oliver, an American scholar, arrives to work with Elio’s father. What begins as a casual friendship between the two soon develops into a passionate and complicated romance.
Call me by your name The first is a charming and poignant film about love, self-discovery, and the painful but beautiful passage of time. It’s a visual and emotional journey that stays with the audience after the credits roll.
Brokeback Mountain (Amazon Prime Video)
A powerful and heartbreaking love story, Brokeback Mountain It follows Ennis and Jack, two cowboys who form a deep bond while working together in the isolated wilderness of Wyoming.
Over the years, their friendship develops into a secret romance, hidden due to social pressure and fear of retaliation. Set against the sweeping, rugged landscapes of the American West, the film chronicles the emotional highs and lows of a love that defies the constraints of time, place and social expectations. Brokeback Mountain A story of desire, heartbreak and the complexities of identity, love and secrecy.