10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to It’s a Sin (2021)

Description: One of the first mainstream films to address HIV/AIDS and homophobia, similar to 'It's a Sin' in its emotional depth and social relevance. Both works humanize the struggle against discrimination and illness.

Fact: Tom Hanks won his first Oscar for this role. Directed by Jonathan Demme. Features Bruce Springsteen's Oscar-winning song 'Streets of Philadelphia'.

Description: While not directly about the AIDS crisis, 'The Hours' shares 'It's a Sin's' exploration of queer identity, mental health, and the impact of societal constraints. Both are emotionally intense and feature stellar ensemble casts.

Fact: Based on Michael Cunningham's Pulitzer-winning novel. Stars Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep, and Julianne Moore. Kidman won an Oscar for her role as Virginia Woolf.

Description: Like 'It's a Sin', this show focuses on LGBTQ+ characters and their interconnected lives, though it centers on lesbian women in Los Angeles. Both series are celebrated for their representation and complex character dynamics.

Fact: One of the first TV shows to focus on lesbian and bisexual women. Ran for six seasons. Inspired a sequel series, 'The L Word: Generation Q'.

Description: Like 'It's a Sin', this film tackles the AIDS epidemic, focusing on activism and the fight for treatment. Both stories highlight the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies during the crisis.

Fact: Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto won Oscars for their roles. Based on the true story of Ron Woodroof. Filmed on a modest budget but was a critical and commercial success.

Description: Similar to 'It's a Sin' in its exploration of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s, focusing on the emotional and political struggles of the LGBTQ+ community. Both are poignant dramas that highlight activism, love, and loss during a devastating epidemic.

Fact: Based on Larry Kramer's semi-autobiographical play. Mark Ruffalo and Matt Bomer star in lead roles. Won the Emmy for Outstanding Television Movie.

Description: A documentary that, like 'It's a Sin', chronicles the AIDS crisis and the activism of groups like ACT UP. Both are powerful accounts of a community fighting for survival and justice.

Fact: Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary. Uses archival footage to tell its story. Focuses on the grassroots efforts that changed public health policy.

Description: Shares the LGBTQ+ narrative focus of 'It's a Sin', but with a more contemporary setting. Both series delve into the personal lives, relationships, and challenges faced by gay men, though 'Looking' is more centered on everyday life rather than a historical crisis.

Fact: Created by Michael Lannan. Features Jonathan Groff in the lead role. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of gay life in San Francisco.

Description: This Australian film, like 'It's a Sin', is a heartfelt love story set against the backdrop of the AIDS epidemic. Both depict the personal toll of the crisis on relationships and families.

Fact: Based on Timothy Conigrave's memoir. Won several Australian Academy Awards. Explores a 15-year relationship impacted by HIV/AIDS.

Description: Created by Russell T Davies, who also created 'It's a Sin', this series shares his signature storytelling style—blending humor, drama, and poignant social commentary about gay life. Both shows are deeply character-driven.

Fact: Part of a trilogy with 'Banana' and 'Tofu'. Focuses on the lives of gay men in Manchester. Known for its bold and unconventional narrative structure.

Description: A continuation of 'The L Word', this series, like 'It's a Sin', explores modern LGBTQ+ issues and relationships, blending drama with social commentary. Both shows highlight the evolution of queer identities over time.

Fact: Brings back original cast members alongside new characters. Addresses contemporary issues like gender identity and polyamory. Set in Los Angeles, like its predecessor.