Cinema, over the years, has produced masterpieces that tell of adventures and travels around the world, featuring protagonists of different ethnicities, cultures and sexual orientations. These include “on the road” films that highlight the stories of LGBTQ+ characters who embark on unforgettable journeys, enriching the plot with unique life experiences.
Here are 5 queer road movies that will keep your mind traveling as you wait to book your next vacation, perhaps right with Quiiky Travel.
“Supernova” (2020) – England
We can count among the gay-themed road movies the 2020 film “Supernova” (directed by Harry Macqueen and starring Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci): it follows the story of a longtime gay couple, Sam and Tusker, who embark on a road trip through England.
The main reason for the trip is to visit some of the couple’s favorite places before Tusker, suffering from a terminal illness, loses his memory completely. Along the way, the two men face the challenges of Tusker’s illness and their relationship is tested.
During the journey, Sam and Tusker come up against the reality of the disease, which leads to increased tension and difficult emotional choices. They also confront the reaction of friends and family to their relationship, which in some cases proves sympathetic, but in others remains a source of conflict.
The main theme of the film is love and acceptance, which are explored through Sam and Tusker’s relationship. In addition, the film presents important themes such as death, euthanasia, memory, and the meaning of love under difficult conditions.
Overall, “Supernova” is a touching and profound film that sensitively addresses universal themes through the story of a gay couple, making it a significant example of an LGBTQ+-themed road movie.
“The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” (1994) – Australia
Directed by Stephan Elliott, this iconic Australian film is the quintessential queer road movie that follows the adventures of two drag queens and a transgender woman: Mitzi (Hugo Weaving), Felicia (Guy Pearce) and Bernadette (Terence Stamp) embark on a journey across the Australian desert aboard an old bus, nicknamed “Priscilla.”
The journey is an opportunity for the protagonists to confront societal prejudices, but also to make new friends and discover new horizons.
Colorful, exuberant and moving, “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” is a must-see film for lovers of the genre.
“To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar” (1995) – USA
“To Wong Foo, Thank You for Everything! Julie Newmar” is a 1995 comedy directed by Beeban Kidron and starring Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes and John Leguizamo. The film follows the adventures of three drag queens who embark on a road trip across the United States.
The three protagonists, Vida Boheme (Patrick Swayze), Noxeema Jackson (Wesley Snipes) and Chi-Chi Rodriguez (John Leguizamo), set out from New York to participate in the Miss Drag Queen America beauty pageant in Hollywood. Along the way, they meet different characters and run into funny and dangerous situations.
On the way, the three drag queens stop in a small Midwestern town, where they meet a young woman named Carol Ann (Stockard Channing) who is on the run from her abusive husband. The three drag queens help Carol Ann find the strength to leave her husband and follow her dreams.
As they continue their journey, the three protagonists also encounter a group of local youths who mock and insult them because of their gender expression. However, through their inner strength and determination, the drag queens manage to overcome the obstacles and reach Hollywood, where they participate in the beauty pageant and make a big impression on the audience.
The film is an example of a queer road movie that addresses important themes such as acceptance of self and others, friendship, and the courage to follow one’s dreams.
“Call me by your name” (2017) – Italy
The film “Call Me by Your Name,” directed by Luca Guadagnino and based on the novel of the same name by André Aciman, tells the love story between young Elio (Timothée Chalamet) and Oliver (Armie Hammer), an American student visiting in the summer of 1983.
Set in Lombardy (Italy), the film offers breathtaking glimpses of the Italian countryside, with its lush green landscapes, historic villas and charming small villages.
“Call Me by Your Name” is a hymn to love and self-acceptance, but also an invitation to discover the hidden beauties of the beautiful country.
Once you’ve seen this film you will surely be born with the desire to visit these landscapes. We at Quiiky Travel have thought of a gay friendly group itinerary to discover the locations of this spectacular film. Click on the text below for more info: CMBYN Gay Tour
“Dream Boat” (2017) – queer road movie on the Mediterranean sea
“Dream Boat” is a 2017 documentary directed by Tristan Ferland Milewski that follows the stories of five men from different parts of the world on a cruise trip through the Mediterranean Sea: a gay cruise with the theme “Dream Boat,” where participants can socialize, relax and have fun.
In addition to the five protagonists, the documentary also follows other passengers and crew members on the ship.
The documentary explores the protagonists’ different experiences and points of view regarding love, sexuality and life in general.
The protagonists represent different ages, backgrounds, and cultures, which allows it to show the variety and complexity of the LGBTQ+ experience.
