If you were moved by the emotional depth and poignant storytelling of 'Man in an Orange Shirt' (2017), you're likely searching for similar films or shows that explore themes of love, identity, and historical struggles. This article curates 10 compelling titles that resonate with the same heartfelt narrative and rich character development, offering you a guide to more stories that will tug at your heartstrings and leave a lasting impact.

Maurice (1987)
Description: Similar to 'Man in an Orange Shirt' in its Edwardian setting and exploration of class and sexuality. Both films depict the challenges of same-sex love in early 20th century Britain.
Fact: James Wilby and Hugh Grant made their film debuts. The film had a happy ending added not present in the book. Director James Ivory had to fight to keep the love scenes.


Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Description: Like 'Man in an Orange Shirt', this film explores the complexities of a long-term same-sex relationship in a time when such love was socially unacceptable. Both stories span decades and show the enduring impact of suppressed love.
Fact: Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal initially turned down the roles. The film was shot in just 30 days. The famous shirts from the film were auctioned for charity in


The Danish Girl (2015)
Description: Shares with 'Man in an Orange Shirt' the theme of personal transformation and the challenges of living authentically in a conservative society. Both films deal with identity and acceptance.
Fact: Eddie Redmayne spent a year preparing for the role. The film was in development for 15 years. Alicia Vikander won an Oscar for her supporting role.


A Single Man (2009)
Description: Similar to 'Man in an Orange Shirt' in its portrayal of grief and love in mid-century settings, focusing on the interior life of a gay man. Both films use visual aesthetics to reflect emotional states.
Fact: Tom Ford's directorial debut. Colin Firth lost 20 pounds for the role. The film's color palette changes based on the protagonist's mood.


The Way He Looks (2014)
Description: Shares with 'Man in an Orange Shirt' the theme of self-discovery and first love, though in a younger context. Both films beautifully capture the emotional journey of accepting one's sexuality.
Fact: Expanded from a 2010 short film. The lead actor is not blind in real life. The film won over 30 international awards.


Carol (2015)
Description: Like 'Man in an Orange Shirt', this film explores forbidden love in a historical context, showing the societal pressures on LGBTQ+ relationships. Both feature beautifully restrained performances and period-accurate production design.
Fact: Based on Patricia Highsmith's novel 'The Price of Salt'. Cate Blanchett did all her own driving in the film. The film was shot on Super 16mm film to achieve its distinctive look.


Moonlight (2016)
Description: Shares with 'Man in an Orange Shirt' the exploration of LGBTQ+ identity across different life stages, showing how societal expectations shape personal relationships. Both films deal with themes of masculinity and vulnerability.
Fact: The film was made for just $


Love, Simon (2018)
Description: While more contemporary than 'Man in an Orange Shirt', both films explore the universal experience of coming out and the fear of rejection. They show how love can transcend societal expectations.
Fact: First major studio teen rom-com with a gay lead. The film's title was changed from 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda'. The Ferris wheel scene was filmed in one take.


God's Own Country (2017)
Description: Similar to 'Man in an Orange Shirt' in its exploration of rural LGBTQ+ relationships and the emotional struggles of coming to terms with one's sexuality. Both films depict the challenges of love in conservative environments.
Fact: The film was shot in just 24 days. It was director Francis Lee's debut feature film. The lead actors had to learn how to perform farm work authentically.


Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Description: Shares with 'Man in an Orange Shirt' the theme of a summer romance that leaves a lasting impact, exploring the intensity and fleeting nature of first love. Both films beautifully capture the emotional and physical aspects of a same-sex relationship.
Fact: Timothée Chalamet learned to speak Italian and play piano for the role. The peach scene was filmed in one take. The film's setting was inspired by director Luca Guadagnino's own childhood summers in Italy.
