8 Queer Shows and Films to Watch If You Loved 'Heartstopper'
Netflix's queer teen romance Heartstopper has taken the world and our hearts by storm. If you are looking for more LGBTQ+ friendly things to watch (after you've finished crying, that is), here are eight series and films with similar vibes to set your sights on next.
All feature queer characters in a main role, and contain elements that you might recognise from Heartstopper - from cute moments and queer romance to teen stress and characters figuring out who they are.
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Sex Education (TV Show)
Socially awkward Otis may not have much experience in the lovemaking department, but he gets good guidance on the topic through his mum Jean, who is a sex therapist. Being surrounded by manuals, videos and tediously open conversations about sex, Otis has become a reluctant expert on the subject. When his classmates learn about his home life, Otis decides to use his insider knowledge to improve his status at school, and teams up with bad girl Maeve to set up an underground sex therapy clinic. Known for it's take on adolescent sexuality, Sex Education also includes non-binary, pansexual and asexual characters, and characters who are still exploring their identities.
Love, Simon (Film)
Simon Spier keeps a huge secret from his family, his friends and all of his classmates: he's gay. When that secret is threatened, Simon must face everyone and come to terms with his identity. There is also a spin off TV show called Love, Victor which follows a different storyline in the same universe, with Simon as a cameo. Available on Netflix.
The Prom (Film)
A troupe of hilariously self-obsessed theatre stars swarm into a small conservative Indiana town in support of a high school girl who wants to take her girlfriend to the prom. Available on Netflix.
Julie and the Phantoms (TV Show)
Julie is a teenage girl who finds her passion for music and life with the help of a high-concept band of teen boys (The Phantoms) who have been dead for 25 years. Julie, in turn, helps them become the band they were never able to be. Available on Netflix.
The Half of It (Film)
This American coming-of-age film is not your typical teen rom-com as the main characters are not in love with each other. When smart but cash-strapped teen Ellie Chu agrees to write a love letter for a jock, she doesn't expect to become his friend - or fall for his crush. Available on Netflix.
Young Royals (TV Show)
Prince Wilhelm adjusts to life at his prestigious new boarding school, Hillerska, but following his heart proves more challenging than anticipated. The young, queer love story has many similarities to Heartstopper, and fans are debating over which show they enjoyed the most (spoiler warning), but we can all agree that both are worth watching!
Single All The Way (Film)
No matter what season it is outside, this cute holiday film makes our heart happy in a similar way to how Heartstopper did. Desperate to avoid his family's judgement about being single, Peter persuades best friend Nick to pose as his boyfriend on a trip home for the holidays. And of course things go wrong from there. Available on Netflix.
Bad Buddy (TV Series)
A special mention for Bad Buddy, a 2021 Thai romantic comedy-drama series starring Korapat Kirdpan and Pawat Chittsawangdee. It tells the story of two boys who come from warring, neighbouring families who found themselves competing for almost everything. Available on Youtube (with English subtitles).
This blog post was written by Lauren S. You can follow her reviews on Instagram @hobbitsbooksandbeyond
