The Impact of LGBTQ+ Coming-of-Age Films

The Importance of LGBTQ+ Coming-of-Age Films

Coming-of-age movies are a beloved genre, but many films centered on the LGBTQ+ experience of growing up still fly under the radar. This is unfortunate because representation can be an important lifeline for younger viewers struggling with their identity. Outside the positive impact these films have on society, they are also genuinely great movies that showcase the filmmakers' craft.

The coming-of-age genre is defined by a plot that focuses on the growth, development, and changes that the protagonist goes through. A coming-of-age narrative does not necessarily have to center on teens or young people, but often does, as there is plenty of drama and discovery that occurs during that period of life. Falling in love can be one of the most defining experiences of growing up, as it's a big step emotionally and socially. For the young people in the films, discovering themselves and their sexualities at the same time can be a tall order.

Crush (2022)

Directed By: SAMMI COHEN. As more and more stories about Gen Z flood the media, Crush is a welcome addition that uses the themes of the use of technology and the sexual fluidity of the generation to its advantage. Following the development of the relationship between Paige (Rowan Blanchard) and AJ (Auli'i Cravalho) is refreshing. The two characters are already out, and not worried about being rejected due to their sexuality.

Dominique, Amy, Max, and Janet holding guns in D.E.B.S

Being queer is an important part of their identities, but it is not the only defining factor, and they have more reason to be together than simply being the only two LGBTQ+ students at the school. Crush makes the act of falling in love while queer a joyful and natural part of the teenage experience. Additionally, the film incorporates the other pitfalls of growing up like Paige committing herself to making art and being a good friend.

D.E.B.S (2004)

Directed By: ANGELA ROBINSON. D.E.B.S has become a cult favorite in the LGBTQ+ community, and though the film did not initially perform well, it gained recognition in the years following its release. The premise revolves around a group of girls who are training to become secret agents at a spy academy and must save the world time and again. This action-packed and campy premise is enjoyable enough on its own but is then backed up by the genuine romance between Amy (Sara Foster) and Lucy (Jordana Brewster). Seeing Amy and Lucy get to be together in the end is just as satisfying as seeing the agents catch criminals.

Lucy and Amy touching forheads in D.E.B.S

My First Summer (2020)

Directed By: KATIE FOUND. The romance that blossoms between Claudia (Markella Kavenagh) and Grace (Maiah Stewardson) is the one safe and beautiful part of the girls' lives. Most of the film focuses on Claudia's recent loss of her mother, and how, even while she was alive, she isolated Claudia from the outside world. This isolation is a larger metaphor for how sheltering children and keeping them from the world will not stop them from discovering who they are and expressing themselves. Grace's life is not as hard, but she understands Claudia's struggle and the two girls develop a bond through their time of crisis.

Claudia and Grace about to kiss in My First Summer

Dating Amber (2020)

Directed By: DAVID FREYNE. Dating Amber is a period piece set in the '90s, which follows two Irish teenagers, Eddie (Fionn O'Shea) and Amber (Lola Petticrew), who pretend to be in a relationship. Both of the two leads are gay, but the time and place of their high school experience are not the most conducive to coming out. It's not an easy journey for either of them to open up to their parents and their community, and Eddie especially struggles with trying to repress his feelings. Though they both intend to leave their hometown to find a more accepting place to live, what truly matters is that they learn to accept themselves.

Eddie and Amber lying on the floor in Dating Amber