The 40+ Best R-Rated Gay Movies

Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 40+ Best R-Rated Gay Movies
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List of R-Rated gay movies, ranked from best to worst with movie trailers when available. This list takes the best R-Rated gay movies and pits them against each other to see once and for all what the greatest R-Rated Gay movie of all time is. This list of popular R-Rated gay movies includes information like who directed the film, when it was released and which actors starred in the movie. If you think the top R-Rated Gay movie isn't as high as it should be then be sure to vote it up so it can take its rightful place among the other great R-Rated Gay films on this list. If you're trying to find a specific R-Rated Gay film you can search this list and filter to find what you're looking for.

This list is made up of a variety of movies, including The Kids Are All Right and Boys Don't Cry.

If you're trying to find out "What are the best R-Rated gay movies?" and "What are the most famous R-Rated gay movies?" then this list is the perfect resource for you.

Use this list if you're looking for some new gay movies that are rated R. Between Netflix, Hulu and other services there are thousands of great gay movies rated R, so get out there and start watching.

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Did you know that Peter Jackson and Stephen Frears have both directed Gay R movies?

Latest additions: Red, White & Royal Blue, Fire Island
Ranked by
  • Maurice
    1
    James Wilby, Hugh Grant, Rupert Graves
    35 votes
    • Released: 1987
    • Directed by: James Ivory

    Set in early 20th-century England, this poignant film adaptation of E.M. Forster's classic novel explores the forbidden love story between two young men from different social classes. Faced with societal expectations and their own desires, they struggle to find a sense of identity and happiness in a world that seeks to suppress their passion. Through its period setting and compelling characters, Maurice delivers a thought-provoking look at the complexities of homosexuality in a bygone era.

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  • Gods and Monsters
    2
    Ian McKellen, Brendan Fraser, Lynn Redgrave
    25 votes
    • Released: 1998
    • Directed by: Bill Condon

    This biographical drama delves into the final days of British film director James Whale, played by Ian McKellen, as he forms an unexpected bond with his gardener, played by Brendan Fraser. Through flashbacks, the film reveals Whale's struggles with his homosexuality, artistic ambition, and the impact of his past on his present. Boasting compelling performances and an insightful script, Gods and Monsters paints a memorable portrait of the complexities of self-identity.

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  • The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
    3
    Terence Stamp, Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce
    82 votes
    • Released: 1994
    • Directed by: Stephan Elliott

    This iconic Australian comedy-drama centers on three drag queens, played by Hugo Weaving, Guy Pearce, and Terence Stamp, as they embark on a road trip across the Outback in their vibrant bus "Priscilla." Along the way, they encounter a diverse array of locals and discover new friendships, love, and acceptance. Filled with campy humor, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable performances, this film provides an entertaining look at the power of self-discovery and the importance of community.

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  • My Own Private Idaho
    4
    River Phoenix, Keanu Reeves, James Russo
    51 votes
    • Released: 1991
    • Directed by: Gus Van Sant

    Directed by Gus Van Sant, this cult classic follows River Phoenix and Keanu Reeves as two young hustlers navigating the seedy world of street life and prostitution in the Pacific Northwest. Loosely based on Shakespeare's Henry IV, the film tackles themes of loneliness, addiction, and the quest for family. With its surreal visuals and memorable performances from its leads, My Own Private Idaho remains a powerful examination of life on society's fringes.

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  • But I'm a Cheerleader
    5
    Natasha Lyonne, Cathy Moriarty, Bud Cort
    35 votes
    • Released: 1999
    • Directed by: Jamie Babbit

    This satirical comedy stars Natasha Lyonne as a high school cheerleader who is sent to a conversion therapy camp after her family suspects she may be a lesbian. While there, she discovers her true sexuality and falls in love with a fellow camper, played by Clea DuVall. With its candy-colored visuals, pitch-black humor, and sharp critique of conversion therapy, But I'm a Cheerleader remains a cult classic with a powerful message.

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  • The Boys in the Band
    6
    Cliff Gorman, Leonard Frey, Peter White
    35 votes
    • Released: 1970
    • Directed by: William Friedkin

    Based on the groundbreaking play by Mart Crowley, this 1970 film features a group of gay friends who gather in a New York City apartment for a friend's birthday party. As the night unfolds, these men confront their relationships, hidden desires, and the challenges they face living as gay men in a prejudiced society. With its raw emotions and ahead-of-its-time exploration of LGBTQ+ themes, The Boys in the Band is a seminal work in queer cinema.

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