Queering the Lens: How LGBTQ+ Stories are Gaining Ground in Film and Media

As a transmasculine filmmaker, I’ve seen how powerful queer storytelling can be. In the past few years, LGBTQ+ stories have moved from the sidelines to the spotlight. They’re no longer just side plots or stereotypes—they’ve become real, meaningful stories that help people understand each other and themselves.

For a long time, queer characters in films and TV were hidden or shown in negative ways. They were often tragic figures or jokes. But things are changing. Films like Moonlight and shows like Heartstopper and Pose are showing LGBTQ+ people in a whole new light—full of love, struggle, and hope.

What’s making the difference is that more LGBTQ+ creators are telling their own stories. For me, seeing trans characters treated with care and respect feels personal. It’s not just about being seen—it’s about being seen honestly.

Streaming platforms have helped, too. Without the limits of traditional TV and film studios, these stories can reach a wider audience. Movies like Rafiki and A Fantastic Woman also show how much variety there is in queer experiences—across cultures, races, and genders.

But there’s still work to do. Many queer filmmakers struggle to get funding, and most LGBTQ+ stories in the spotlight come from Western countries. We need to hear more voices from all over the world, especially from places where being LGBTQ+ is still dangerous.

Queer storytelling is changing how we see the world. It’s not just about representation—it’s about creating understanding and connection. The future of LGBTQ+ stories is bright, and I’m proud to be part of it.