We are already halfway through June, and I’m only writing this now. It’s been a hectic few weeks, but I’ve actually sat down to write several times, and just couldn’t do it for some reason. But here we are! We’re here, we’re queer, and we want to consume exclusively queer content. This article contains a list of shows, movies and books that I’m enjoying this Pride, some I finished and some I’m still enjoying.
Let’s get into it!
- Fire Island (movie)
Joel Kim Booster’s new movie is an ode to a physical and mental place, a place of freedom and liberation for queer people (mostly gay men, but still). It’s sweet, funny, sexy and young, touches on some real issues while still keeping you in the fantasy. Also, incredible Asian-American representation. More relevant to gay men for sure, but I still enjoyed it. And it’s inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice!
2. Hetero (web series)
With only one episode out, there’s not much to say yet. The show seems to follow a high school’s GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) that causes trouble to the teachers and principal. First impression — heavy on the Gen-Z vibes, and the script feels a little forced. I’m looking forward to see where it goes, and I’m always here for young queer creations.
3. Ophelia After All — Raquel Marie (book)
I’m about halfway through this book, and I’m loving every word. I love bi-awakenings, a Latin protagonist and POC representation. It’s light and fun, very readable with great dialog. On one hand, I can’t wait to see the ending, on the other hand, I don’t want it to end.
4. Trixie Motel (tv series)
If you haven’t heard of Trixie Mattel I don’t think this list is for you. Trixie and her partner David bought a motel in Palm Springs and they made a show following it’s renovation. I haven’t finished it yet, considering it’s still airing, but already there are plenty of celebrity guests, queer creatives, and all around fun.
5. Queer as Folk (2022, tv series)
The first queer anything I have encountered was the 2000s show Queer as Folk, by the legend Russel T. Davis. It left an undeniable mark on me, and while it’s really problematic, it has a special place in my heart. When I heard about the reboot, I was curious. I only watched one episode so far, but I’ll definitely keep watching.
6. Boyfriend Material — Alexis Hall (book)
I beg you to ignore the title and give this book a chance. It’s ironic, ok? Just try to get past it. I read this book 3 times and listened to the audiobook, that should prove how much I love it. I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone, just go read it as soon as possible. The audiobook is on Spotify for free!
7. A Very English Scandal (mini series)
Maybe I’m late to the party, but this is a masterpiece. Again by Russel T. Davis, this mini-series recounts the true story of British Parliament member Jeremy Thorpe and his former lover Norman Josiffe (later Scott). No spoilers this time! Just go watch it.
8. I kissed Shara Wheeler — Casey McQuiston (book)
Casey McQuiston does it again folks. This book had me in a chokehold immediately, and I couldn’t stop reading until I finished (even while at work, I hope my boss didn’t notice). Queer people living in the bible-belt, this one’s for you.
9. We’re Here (tv show)
Lucky us we got season 2 of We’re Here! The non-scripted show features legendary Drag Queens— Bob the Drag Queen, Shangela and Eureka. The three Queens travel to small towns all across the US and put on fabulous Drag Shows together with the locals, while learning the history of those towns and empowering the local queer communities.
10. Pride (2014, movie)
Once again, my favorite movie of all time, Pride! I’m re-watching Pride this June, like all pride months, because it’s a mastery of queer solidarity and queer joy. It combines my love for true stories with my bias towards the Found Family trope, and melts them into this masterpiece. Go watch it.
Happy Pride Month!
