10 Movies to Watch During Queerantine

We've all seen, from our politicians to social media, to stay at home during this COVID-19 pandemic. I for one hope you, reader, are doing just that. But if you're anything like me, staying at home for two weeks straight (or maybe even longer) can induce killer boredom and anxiety.

I'm a film lover, so when I'm anxious--and especially when I'm bored--I turn to my favorite pass time, which is watching films. And to make the most of these statewide Stay at Home orders, I've compiled a short list so that you all can try and enjoy this collective Queerantine with me. As always, the movies listed here are gay AF!

And the Band Played On (1993) dir. Roger Spottiswoode

The first film on this list is a biopic detailing the struggles of the HIV/AIDS epidemic from the perspective of the CDC workers who began initial research on the virus. Unlike other biopics on the AIDS crisis, this one is less of a tearjerker and more of a thought provoking, frustrating, and quietly infuriating look at a relatively unexplored perspective of the fight against AIDS. Based on the book of the same name by Randy Shilts.

The Watermelon Woman (1996) dir. Cheryl Dunye

This film, the first feature film directed by an out black lesbian, is about a woman named Cheryl who is trying to make a film about a black actress from the 1930's known for playing stereotypical "mammy" roles. The film is of lower budget, filmed in a quasi-documentary style, and a fictionalized rendering of the director's real life.

Monster (2003) dir. Patty Jenkins

A biopic about America's first female serial killer, Aileen Wuornos, who shot 7 Florida men at point blank range. Charlize Theron's performance in this film won her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Many documentaries have been devoted to Aileen Wuornos, so if docs aren't your thing but your interest in serial killers is piqued, give this biopic a try.

Brokeback Mountain (2005) dir. Ang Lee

This film explores social isolation of a different kind. It's also a classic staple of queer cinema. Beginning in 1963, this movie details the on and off relationship between Ennis and Jack and the things inside and outside of their control keeping them apart. Do you like cowboys? Do you like Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger? Make sure to check this essential film off your list during queerantine.

Another Gay Movie (2006) dir. Todd Stephens

Fair warning, this movie absolutely sucks, no pun intended. The ultimate irony of it being campy is hard to miss, because I'm not sure if it's this bad on purpose or if it's just a shit film (again, no pun intended--you'll understand when you watch it). If you thought American Pie was stupid, you'll definitely think this one is far stupider. I added this to the list to remind us all that no matter how bad things get, there are always far worse things out there.

We Were Here (2011) dir. David Weissman, Bill Weber

I consider this documentary to be essential (and underrated) viewing of the AIDS epidemic, specifically in San Francisco. Many people, myself included, can see parallels between the early HIV/AIDS epidemic and the current COVID-19 pandemic in terms of language, stigma, lack of resources, and government inaction. One of the best ways to understand current issues is by studying similar issues of the past. We Were Here is a great example of how people can come together to take care of one another during unprecedented tragedy.

Queens and Cowboys: A Straight Year on the Gay Rodeo (2014) dir. Matt Livadary

I am often frustrated by my community's ability to uphold the mantra of inclusivity while simultaneously ignoring many queer people who live a lifestyle unlike our coastal counterparts'. This is why, when I came across this documentary (tying together people from my community and also a hidden interest of mine, the rodeo) I was delightfully surprised. I would recommend this film to anyone interested in queer history, big and small, the rodeo, and to anyone trying to break free from their city-life bubble.

King Cobra (2016) dir. Justin Kelly

An interesting film about the business end of the adult film industry, the social repercussions of working in that industry, and murder. This movie is based on Andrew E. Stoner and Peter A. Conway's book Cobra Killer: Gay Porn, Murder, and the Manhunt to Bring the Killers to Justice. Despite the film being a biopic and not a documentary on the subject, it may interest you to look further into Sean Paul Lockhart/Brent Corrigan and his current work (not in adult films).

BPM (Beats Per Minute) (2017) dir. Robin Campillo

This French biopic is an absolute powerhouse. It's about ACT UP Paris's efforts to organize and agitate during the HIV/AIDS crisis. The activists target pharmaceutical companies and, in one scene, even descend on a school to pass out safer sex pamphlets to students in the middle of lectures. It's emotional without being gut-wrenching, inspiring without being preachy, and has an absolutely unforgettable end sequence.

Duck Butter (2018) dir. Miguel Arteta

Are you slowly going stir crazy with your partner (or partners) in the midst of this queerantine? Have I got the movie for you. Duck Butter is about two women who meet and decide to stay up together for 24 hours straight. Unsurprisingly it devolves into hysteria, which many may find super relatable right now. Watch this movie and then imagine the premise, but for two weeks straight.

That's all for this list, folks. Stay home, stay healthy, and stay sane during this queerantine! And remember: just because we can't be physically close doesn't mean we can't collectively act.