The Yearning’s 1st Annual Gay Holiday Movie Guide

What to watch…and who to watch it with. Plus, a gift guide!

Dec 12, 2024

Yes, actually!

Ah, the holiday season. The weather is getting colder and we’re spending more time on our indoor pursuits. As we write this, the rain is pouring down outside our Brooklyn windows. There’s nothing better than cozying up on the couch with some good snacks, a mug of hot chocolate, and that ever-alluring plan: let’s watch a movie! But it’s never that simple, is it…

If you’re reading this, we assume you’re gay. Or you’re a really supportive and media-oriented ally. So—what movie to watch when you’re tired of the hetero Hallmark portfolio and can’t bear to watch Elf one more time? This time of year, you might be going home to spend time with family, traveling with friends, or staying in your apartment for a Grinch-worthy shut in. No matter where you’ll be, allow us to make some queer movie suggestions that are appropriate for whatever holiday season you’re planning to have.

Happy Holidays, Yearners! We adore you all. — Meg & Ali

What to watch with your parents:

Christmas at the Ranch (2021)

Go for this one if your folks are the Hallmark type. Listen, nobody is putting a Hallmark movie on with the intention of it being quality cinema. You’re putting it on because it's cute, it's cheesy, it's laidback Christmas watchin’. This one is like all the others: it’s about saving the family business! Back home! But in this one, our high powered businesswoman from the city Haley falls for the futch family ranch hand, Kate. They ride horses together, match on Tinder (no one else is around), and have an aggressive scene about stealing bed covers, three things that feel distinctly lesbian to us.

What to watch with your situationship:

Carol (2015)

I know what you’re thinking, this seems like a heavy choice for a mere situationship. But listen, a Carol viewing might be just what the two of you need to remind you that going on a road trip upstate together for the holidays after meeting only a week ago is maybe not the best idea. Or maybe…it is? We might have more to say about this next week.

What to watch with your cool cousin who might be gay:

Tangerine (2015)

Crime…comedy…Christmas! Set on Christmas Eve, this movie follows a trans sex worker Sin-Dee, who has just gotten out of a 28-day jail stint and has found out her boyfriend and pimp has been cheating on her. While sure to spark some thought-provoking conversation about legalizing sex work in this country, this movie is also a fun romp. It’s funny and chaotic with amazing performances. And the content lends a grittiness to your holiday watch that will definitely score you cool points.

What to watch with your queer friends:

The Jinkx and Dela Holiday Special (2020)

What says “let’s celebrate queer family” better than a variety show featuring two drag besties? Pop this on and sing along as you host your own Secret Santa or White Elephant! It’s easy, festive viewing that you can tune in and out of, but it will provide a ceaselessly upbeat and gay vibe for any and all holiday fêtes.

Happiest Season" Roundtable: Yikes, Harper! Wooowwww, Aubrey Plaza! | Autostraddle

What to watch when you’re thinking about breaking up:

Happiest Season (2020)

This one is simple—watch Kristen Stewart pick the wrong lesbian together and ask them if you think she made the right choice. If they say yes, then chances are, you know what should happen next. Aubrey Plaza, we would have picked you!!

What to watch with your Christmas crush:

A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter (2024)

Okay, we’re going to be straight up with you: put this on for the Sabrina / Chappell duet. First you and your crush can debate which of the two you’d want to be vs. want to be with (maybe it’s both?). Then you can let the rest of the special play in the background while you…get caught underneath the mistletoe <3