If you were moved by the emotional journey of 'Joe Bell' (2021), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows that tackle themes of family, resilience, and social justice. This article is perfect for fans seeking powerful stories that inspire change and empathy.

Philadelphia (1993)
Description: A groundbreaking drama addressing HIV/AIDS discrimination and the fight for justice in the workplace.
Fact: One of the first mainstream Hollywood films to address HIV/AIDS. Features an iconic opera scene set to 'La Mamma Morta'.


Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Description: A tragic love story about two cowboys navigating their forbidden relationship in a conservative society.
Fact: Based on a short story by Annie Proulx. Initially controversial for its portrayal of a gay relationship in a Western setting.


Prayers for Bobby (2009)
Description: A moving drama about a mother's journey to acceptance after her gay son's suicide, highlighting the impact of religious intolerance.
Fact: Based on a true story. Originally aired as a TV movie on Lifetime.


A Single Man (2009)
Description: A visually stunning film about grief, love, and the struggle to find meaning after loss, centered around a gay professor.
Fact: Fashion designer Tom Ford's directorial debut. The film's color palette shifts to reflect the protagonist's emotional state.


The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Description: A coming-of-age story that touches on trauma, mental health, and the search for belonging, with LGBTQ+ themes woven into the narrative.
Fact: Written and directed by the author of the original novel, Stephen Chbosky. Features a memorable soundtrack including David Bowie's 'Heroes'.


The Normal Heart (2014)
Description: A powerful narrative about the early days of the AIDS crisis and the activism that emerged to combat government indifference.
Fact: Based on Larry Kramer's semi-autobiographical play. The film was in development for over 20 years before its release.


Moonlight (2016)
Description: A deeply emotional coming-of-age story that delves into identity, masculinity, and love within the Black LGBTQ+ community.
Fact: First LGBTQ+ film and first film with an all-Black cast to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Divided into three acts depicting different stages of the protagonist's life.


Love, Simon (2018)
Description: A heartfelt teen drama about coming out and the struggles of accepting one's sexuality in high school.
Fact: First major studio film to focus on a gay teenage romance. Based on the novel 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda' by Becky Albertalli.


Call Me by Your Name (2017)
Description: A poignant romance that captures the intensity of first love and the pain of longing, set in a picturesque Italian summer.
Fact: The peach scene became iconic and sparked much discussion. The film's soundtrack features original music by Sufjan Stevens.


The Miseducation of Cameron Post (2018)
Description: Explores themes of self-discovery and societal rejection faced by LGBTQ+ youth, set against a backdrop of conversion therapy.
Fact: Won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Based on a novel by Emily M. Danforth.
