In the world of cinema, period dramas hold a special place for their ability to transport viewers to a different era, offering a unique glimpse into the lives, emotions, and struggles of characters from the past. In this blog post, we will be exploring the top 10 classic European and American lesbian period dramas, which not only captivate audiences with their stunning visuals and compelling storylines but also challenge societal norms and highlight the resilience of love and passion in the face of adversity. As you read on, you’ll discover how these films have become influential in promoting LGBTQ+ representation in cinema and why they are worth watching.
1. Carol (2015)
Directed by Todd Haynes and based on the novel “The Price of Salt” by Patricia Highsmith, “Carol” tells the story of a young aspiring photographer named Therese (Rooney Mara) who becomes enamored with an older, sophisticated woman named Carol (Cate Blanchett) in 1950s New York. Despite the societal constraints and personal obstacles they face, the two women embark on an intense and passionate love affair. With its stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and delicate exploration of forbidden love, “Carol” has become a modern classic in the realm of lesbian period dramas.
2. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
French director Céline Sciamma’s “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” is a mesmerizing and visually striking film set in 18th century France. It follows the story of a young painter, Marianne (Noémie Merlant), who is commissioned to create a portrait of a reluctant bride-to-be, Héloïse (Adèle Haenel), without her knowledge. As the two women grow closer, their relationship evolves into a passionate romance that defies the expectations of their time. The film has been praised for its breathtaking cinematography, powerful performances, and tender exploration of love and desire.
3. Fingersmith (2005)
Based on Sarah Waters’ novel of the same name, “Fingersmith” is a British miniseries that tells the story of two young women, Sue (Sally Hawkins) and Maud (Elaine Cassidy), who become embroiled in a complex plot of deception and betrayal in Victorian England. As their paths intertwine, the two women develop a deep and passionate connection that transcends the confines of their rigid social environment. “Fingersmith” is a thrilling and suspenseful drama that skillfully intertwines elements of romance, intrigue, and mystery.
4. Tipping the Velvet (2002)
Another adaptation of a Sarah Waters novel, “Tipping the Velvet” is a British miniseries that follows the life of Nan Astley (Rachael Stirling), a young oyster girl who falls in love with a male impersonator named Kitty Butler (Keeley Hawes) in 1890s England. The series explores themes of love, identity, and self-discovery, as Nan navigates the world of Victorian music halls and the underground lesbian subculture. “Tipping the Velvet” has been praised for its engaging storyline, strong performances, and its unapologetic portrayal of lesbian love and desire.
5. Desert of the Heart (1985)
Based on the novel by Jane Rule, “Desert of the Heart” is a groundbreaking film that tells the story of a repressed English professor named Vivian (Helen Shaver) who embarks on a journey of self-discovery when she meets a free-spirited casino worker named Cay (Patricia Charbonneau) in 1950s Nevada. The film explores the complexities of love, identity, and society’s expectations, as the two women navigate the challenges of their unconventional relationship. “Desert of the Heart” is notable for its sensitive and honest portrayal of lesbian love and remains a significant film in LGBTQ+ cinema history.
6. Gentleman Jack (2019)
“Gentleman Jack” is a British television series based on the diaries of Anne Lister, a 19th-century landowner, and lesbian in Yorkshire, England. Played by Suranne Jones, Anne Lister defies societal norms by dressing in masculine attire and refusing to adhere to traditional gender roles. The series follows Anne’s life, including her relationships with various women, most notably her passionate romance with Ann Walker (Sophie Rundle). “Gentleman Jack” has been praised for its engaging storylines, strong performances, and its unapologetic portrayal of a trailblazing lesbian figure.
7. The World to Come (2020)
Set in 19th-century America, “The World to Come” tells the story of two neighboring farmwives, Abigail (Katherine Waterston) and Tallie (Vanessa Kirby), who forge a deep and passionate connection amidst the challenges of their isolated lives. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the search for connection, offering a poignant and visually stunning portrayal of forbidden love. “The World to Come” has received critical acclaim for its performances, cinematography, and its sensitive exploration of lesbian romance.
8. Ammonite (2020)
“Ammonite” is a British drama film inspired by the life of pioneering paleontologist Mary Anning (Kate Winslet) and her romantic relationship with Charlotte Murchison (Saoirse Ronan) in the 1840s. As the two women work together to uncover the secrets of the past, their professional partnership evolves into an intense and passionate love affair. The film has been praised for its performances, particularly by Winslet and Ronan, and its nuanced exploration of love and desire in a time of societal constraints.
9. Colette (2018)
“Colette” is a biographical drama that follows the life of the celebrated French author Colette (Keira Knightley), who is pushed by her husband to write novels under his name. As she gains fame for her writing, Colette begins to explore her sexuality and embarks on a relationship with a gender-nonconforming artist named Missy (Denise Gough). The film delves into themes of identity, creativity, and female empowerment, offering a compelling portrayal of a trailblazing woman who defied societal expectations.
10. The Secret Diaries of Miss Anne Lister (2010)
This BBC television film is based on the life and diaries of Anne Lister, a 19th-century English landowner, diarist, and lesbian. Played by Maxine Peake, Anne Lister’s story is brought to life as she navigates the challenges of her personal and professional life, including her passionate relationships with various women. “The Secret Diaries of Miss Anne Lister” has been praised for its engaging story, strong performances, and its sensitive exploration of lesbian love in a time of societal constraints.
These 10 European and American lesbian period dramas offer captivating and emotionally powerful stories of love, passion, and resilience in the face of societal expectations and restrictions. Whether you’re looking for a heart-wrenching romance, a thrilling tale of deception, or a biographical account of a trailblazing figure, these films are sure to leave a lasting impression. By watching these exceptional dramas, you’ll not only be immersed in the beauty of their storytelling but also contribute to the ongoing push for greater LGBTQ+ representation in cinema. So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and embark on a journey through time with these unforgettable lesbian period dramas that are sure to captivate your heart and mind.
