If you loved the heartfelt and touching story of 'Gossamer Folds' (2020), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of family, identity, and self-discovery. Whether you're drawn to its emotional depth, LGBTQ+ representation, or small-town charm, these recommendations will keep you engaged and moved. Dive in to find your next favorite watch!

Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Description: Brokeback Mountain, like Gossamer Folds, is a deeply emotional story about love and identity, set against the backdrop of societal constraints. Both films portray the pain and beauty of forbidden love, with a focus on the internal struggles of their characters. The sweeping landscapes and intimate storytelling in Brokeback Mountain create a poignant parallel to the emotional depth of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: Brokeback Mountain was directed by Ang Lee and is based on a short story by Annie Proulx. Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal learned to ride horses and herd sheep for their roles. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Director for Ang Lee.


A Single Man (2009)
Description: A Single Man, like Gossamer Folds, explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life. Both films use a visually striking style to convey the emotional states of their protagonists, creating a deeply immersive experience. The focus on personal introspection and the impact of relationships in A Single Man aligns with the introspective nature of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: A Single Man marked the directorial debut of fashion designer Tom Ford. The film is based on the novel by Christopher Isherwood. Colin Firth received an Academy Award nomination for his performance as George Falconer.


The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Description: The Perks of Being a Wallflower, similar to Gossamer Folds, is a poignant coming-of-age story that deals with themes of trauma, friendship, and self-acceptance. Both films portray the struggles of adolescence with sensitivity and depth, offering a heartfelt look at the process of healing and finding one's place in the world. The emotional resonance and character-driven narratives in both films make them deeply relatable.
Fact: The film is based on the novel of the same name by Stephen Chbosky, who also directed the movie. Emma Watson's character, Sam, was originally written as American, but Watson kept her British accent. The iconic tunnel scene was filmed in Pittsburgh, where the story is set.


The Way He Looks (2014)
Description: The Way He Looks shares with Gossamer Folds a focus on the coming-of-age journey of a young LGBTQ+ individual. Both films highlight the protagonist's desire for independence and self-acceptance, set against the backdrop of their personal and social challenges. The tender and authentic portrayal of first love in The Way He Looks resonates with the heartfelt narrative of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: The Way He Looks is a Brazilian film originally released as a short before being expanded into a feature. The film's protagonist, Leonardo, is blind, adding a unique layer to his coming-of-age story. Director Daniel Ribeiro drew from his own experiences as a gay man growing up in Brazil.


Carol (2015)
Description: Carol and Gossamer Folds both explore the complexities of love and identity, particularly in the context of societal expectations. Both films feature nuanced performances and a careful attention to emotional detail, creating a powerful sense of intimacy. The period setting of Carol adds a layer of historical context to its exploration of LGBTQ+ themes, much like the contemporary yet timeless feel of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: Carol is based on the novel 'The Price of Salt' by Patricia Highsmith. The film was shot on 16mm film to achieve a vintage look. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara's performances earned widespread acclaim, with Mara winning the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival.


Moonlight (2016)
Description: Moonlight shares similarities with Gossamer Folds in its exploration of identity, self-discovery, and the struggles of growing up in a marginalized community. Both films delve into the emotional and psychological journey of their protagonists, highlighting themes of acceptance and personal transformation. Moonlight's poetic storytelling and intimate character study resonate with the nuanced narrative of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: Moonlight won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2017, making it the first LGBTQ+ film and the first film with an all-black cast to win the award. The film is divided into three acts, each representing a different stage in the protagonist's life. Director Barry Jenkins was inspired by the play 'In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue' by Tarell Alvin McCraney.


Love, Simon (2018)
Description: Love, Simon shares with Gossamer Folds a focus on the challenges of coming out and the search for identity in a world that often feels unwelcoming. Both films balance heartfelt drama with moments of humor and hope, creating relatable and uplifting narratives about LGBTQ+ youth. The emphasis on family dynamics and personal growth in Love, Simon echoes the themes of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: Love, Simon is the first major studio teen romantic comedy to feature a gay protagonist. The film is based on the novel 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda' by Becky Albertalli. Director Greg Berlanti is known for his work on popular TV shows like 'Riverdale' and 'The Flash.'


God's Own Country (2017)
Description: God's Own Country, similar to Gossamer Folds, is a story of personal transformation and the healing power of love. Both films explore themes of isolation, connection, and the struggle to express one's true self. The raw and naturalistic style of God's Own Country mirrors the authentic and emotional storytelling of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: God's Own Country is the debut feature film of director Francis Lee. The film was shot in Yorkshire, where Lee grew up. The actors, Josh O'Connor and Alec Secareanu, performed many of the farm tasks themselves to add authenticity to their roles.


Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Description: Call Me by Your Name, like Gossamer Folds, is a coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of first love and self-discovery. Both films capture the bittersweet nature of youthful experiences and the emotional intensity of formative relationships. The lush, atmospheric visuals and tender storytelling in Call Me by Your Name mirror the evocative tone of Gossamer Folds.
Fact: The film is set in the summer of 1983 in northern Italy and was shot on location in Crema. Timothée Chalamet learned to speak Italian and play the piano for his role as Elio. The peach scene became one of the most talked-about moments in the film and was improvised by Chalamet.


The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018)
Description: The Miseducation of Cameron Post, like Gossamer Folds, deals with the challenges of being a LGBTQ+ youth in a conservative environment. Both films address the themes of self-acceptance and resistance against societal pressures, offering a powerful commentary on the importance of being true to oneself. The strong performances and emotional depth in both films make them compelling and relatable.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Emily M. Danforth. It won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Chloë Grace Moretz prepared for her role by reading accounts of survivors of conversion therapy.
