Following its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, the queer film Queer, starring Daniel Craig and Drew Starkey, has been lauded for its heartfelt exploration of love, identity, and self-discovery. As the film continues to gather global attention ahead of its release, we have curated a collection of audiobooks and films that celebrate the diverse spectrum of queer experiences. These recommendations are filled with stories of hope, resilience, and connection, offering a deeper understanding of love and identity. From moving narratives to feel-good tales, this collection is a must for anyone looking to explore the richness of queer storytelling.
TO LISTEN
Being Queer (Audible)
Being Queer is a powerful anthology that provides a raw and real look at queer lives. The stories capture the complexities of love, identity, and friendship through diverse voices.
From Heer and Sumira’s bond that challenges the intricacies of transgender experiences to Adira’s reflection on how parental disconnection shaped her first love, this collection delves deep into the emotional landscapes of queer individuals. One standout tale explores the journey of understanding asexuality, while another revisits an unexpected queertopia. This collection is a profound exploration of the queer journey and offers intimate insights into the diverse queer experience.
Desi Down Under (Audible)
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Coogee Beach in Sydney, Desi Down Under is a coming-of-age tale about childhood best friends—Devan, Meenu, and her twin brother Rahul—who embark on their first trip abroad.
The story takes a turn when Rahul meets Taylor, an Italian resident who challenges his fear of commitment. What begins as a playful flirtation soon sparks a thrilling journey of self-discovery, love, and emotional growth. Filled with humor, adventure, and romance, Desi Down Under is a celebration of courage, self-acceptance, and love.
Shikhandi and Other Queer Stories They Don’t Tell You (Audible)
In Shikhandi and Other Queer Stories They Don’t Tell You, renowned mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik reimagines Indian mythology and its queer characters. By exploring ancient Hindu stories like Shikhandi, who changed genders to marry her wife, and Mahadeva, who became a woman to help a devotee, Pattanaik challenges contemporary notions of gender and identity.
The audiobook offers a profound exploration of queerness from an Indian perspective, blending ancient wisdom with modern-day understandings of gender fluidity and queer identity. This thought-provoking listen offers a deep dive into a lesser-explored aspect of Indian mythology and queer history.
Red, White & Royal Blue (Audible)
A sizzling enemies-to-lovers romance, Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston follows Alex Claremont-Diaz, the charming son of the U.S. President, who finds himself reluctantly drawn to Prince Henry of Britain after a scandalous photo makes headlines.Initially staged as a truce to protect their respective reputations, their relationship deepens, and their secret romance becomes a thrilling journey of self-discovery and passion. Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and family pressures, this romantic tale is filled with heart, humor, and emotional depth, making it a gripping listen.
TO WATCH
Joyland (Amazon Prime Video)
Joyland is a bold and emotional exploration of love, identity, and defiance. Set in a family struggling with deep-rooted cultural expectations, the story centers on Haider, the youngest son, who dares to pursue his desires by secretly joining an erotic dance theatre.
It is there that he falls for Biba, a trans starlet. Their love story challenges the family's patriarchal expectations and provides a tender look at the courage it takes to live authentically. Joyland is a thought-provoking film that explores the complex dynamics of family, tradition, and love, offering a raw, unflinching portrayal of queer desire in a conservative society.
Call Me by Your Name (Amazon Prime Video)
Set in the idyllic summer of 1983 in Italy, Call Me by Your Name follows Elio, a 17-year-old boy, who is spending the summer with his family at their villa. His world is turned upside down when Oliver, an American scholar, arrives to work with Elio’s father. What starts as a casual friendship between the two quickly develops into a passionate and complicated romance.
Call Me by Your Name is a captivating and poignant film about first love, self-discovery, and the painful but beautiful passage of time. It is a visual and emotional journey that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.
Brokeback Mountain (Amazon Prime Video)
A powerful and heartbreaking love story, Brokeback Mountain follows two cowboys, Ennis and Jack, who form a deep bond while working together in the isolated wilderness of Wyoming.
Over the years, their friendship evolves into a secret romance, one that is hidden due to societal pressures and the fear of retribution. Set against the sweeping, rugged landscapes of the American West, the film chronicles the emotional highs and lows of a love that defies the constraints of time, space, and societal expectations. Brokeback Mountain is a story of longing, heartbreak, and the complexities of identity, love, and secrecy.
