Old Hollywood movies had to follow strict guidelines throughout the 1930s–1960s, known as the Hays Code. This basically prevented all US films from featuring anything that was overtly sexual or "inappropriate," which forced a lot of filmmakers to get innovative about how they could navigate potential censorship. I contain running lists on Letterboxd of every Old Hollywood and LGBTQ+ movie that I watch, so I sifted through them to discover a bunch from the Hays Code era that are subtly (and not so subtly) suuuuuper gay. Here are some of my favorites. Enjoy!
1.Rebel Without a Cause (1955) stars James Dean as a bi-curious hottie, so you really can't inquire for much more. The original script had his traits kissing Plato, who was one of the first lgbtq+ teen characters on screen, but the Hays Code rapidly squashed that from happening. Still, this movie is edgy and dramatic and romantic, and the whole cast is just so amusement to look at.
2.All About Eve (1950) is a witty and toxic drama about an aging actress who befriends a fan who ultimately tries to usurp her. This movie shares the record for the most Oscar nominations ever, with 14, and it briefly features Marilyn Monroe in one of her f
The 50 Best LGBTQ Movies Ever Made
50
Love, Simon (2018)
AmazonApple
If it feels a bit like a CW version of an after-school special, that's no mistake: Teen-tv super-producer Greg Berlanti makes his feature-film directorial debut here. It's as chaste a love story as you're likely to see in the 21st century—the hunky gardener who makes the title teen question his sexuality is wearing a long-sleeved shirt, for God’s sake—but you know what? The queer kids of the future need their wholesome entertainment, too.
49
Rocketman (2019)
AmazonHulu
A gay fantasia on Elton themes. An Elton John biopic was never going to be understated, but this glittering jukebox musical goes way over the top and then keeps going. It might be an overcorrection from the straight-washing of the previous year's Bohemian Rhapsody, but when it's this much fun, it's best not to overthink it.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
48
Handsome Devil (2016)
NetflixAmazon
A charming Irish production that answers the question: "What if John Hughes were Irish and gay?" Misfit Ned struggles at a rugby-obsessed boarding school until a mysterious unused kid moves in and an unlikely fri
If you’re looking for something decent to watch for Pride, you’re sure to discover it in this list of the best queer movies from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Some of the films listed are modern gay classics, others are hidden gems.
The Boys in the Band (1970)
The Boys in the Band directed by William Friedkin is a must-see for anybody interested in gay cinema. It’s not an easy film to watch, but it’s an honest depiction of the emotional damage caused from living in the closet.
You can read my review of The Boys in the Band here.
The Hunger (1983)
The Hunger is a sexy bisexual vampire horror starring Catherin Deneuve, David Bowie, and Suan Sarandon. Bowie plays a vampire who is rapidly aging, Deneuve is Bowie’s wife and Sarandon is the girl Deneuve is planning to operate as Bowie’s replacement.
The Hunger is hip, cool, highly stylized, and sexy.
An Early Frost (1985)
An Early Frost is a made for TV movie, and the first film made by a major studio to talk about AIDS. It has a top-notch cast and was viewed in 34 million households across the United States when it aired
Double Indemnity (with "Old Essence Movie Podcast")
Welcome back Prized listeners to "That Ol' Gay Classic Cinema", We are so honored to have the opportunity to have the hosts of "Old Soul Movie Podcast", Emma & Jack Oremus! This episode we argue the very first movie noir, "Double Indemnity" starring Barbara Stanwyck & Fred MacMurray! Summary of the Film In this classic film noir, insurance salesman Walter Neff (Fred MacMurray) gets roped into a murderous scheme when he falls for the sensual Phyllis Dietrichson (Barbara Stanwyck), who is intent on killing her husband (Tom Powers) and living off the fraudulent accidental death claim. Prompted by the late Mr. Dietrichson's daughter, Lola (Jean Heather), insurance investigator Barton Keyes (Edward G. Robinson) looks into the case and gradually begins to uncover the sinister truth. Key Takeaways Double Indemnity is a pinnacle of the movie noir genre, capturing the anxieties and aesthetics of the era. The motion picture features exceptional writing, directing, and acting, with standout performances from Barbara Stanwick and Edward G. Robinson. The relationship between Walter Neff and Barton Keys is a highlight, showcasing a deep male