20 Movies Where the Trans Love Interest Is Front and Center

For a long time, transgender characters in movies were often portrayed through sad storylines or as having hidden identities. Now, we’re seeing a positive change, with more filmmakers creating complex and genuine stories about transgender people, including their romantic lives. These new films often show characters whose transgender history is openly known, allowing the story to focus on the relationship itself, rather than the reveal of a secret. The films that follow showcase transgender characters finding love and connection with honesty and openness.

‘A Fantastic Woman’ (2017)

Marina, a young woman working as a waitress and singer, experiences prejudice following the unexpected death of her partner. The film portrays her journey of grieving while navigating disapproval from his family and scrutiny from authorities who challenge who she is. It’s a story about her strength and self-respect, openly addressing her past without shame. This Chilean film received the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film for its moving and impactful narrative.

‘Tangerine’ (2015)

Sin-Dee Rella heads back to Los Angeles on Christmas Eve, determined to find the man who hurt her. With her friend Alexandra, she searches the city for the woman he cheated with. The movie was filmed entirely on iPhones, giving it a raw, energetic feel that captures the reality of life on the streets. It honestly portrays the characters’ lives and relationships, and importantly, doesn’t make their transgender identities the focus of the story.

‘Boy Meets Girl’ (2014)

Ricky is a young transgender woman in Kentucky with big dreams of becoming a fashion designer. As she pursues her passion, she forms an unexpected friendship with Francesca, a debutante, and grapples with her feelings for her close friend, Robby. The story honestly and openly explores themes of gender and sexuality, offering a new perspective on the romantic comedy genre by focusing on a transgender woman’s journey to find love.

‘Laurence Anyways’ (2012)

Laurence comes out to his girlfriend, Fred, sharing that he is a transgender woman and wants to live authentically as herself. Over a challenging ten years, the couple tries to work through this change together. Their relationship is tested by both external prejudice and their own individual growth. Directed by Xavier Dolan, this beautifully shot film focuses on the deep emotional connection between Laurence and Fred.

‘Port Authority’ (2019)

When Paul arrives in New York City, he’s captivated by Wye, a performer in the vibrant kiki ballroom scene. As he tries to build a relationship with her, he confronts his own self-doubt and the biases of others. The film explores how different communities collide in the city and the challenges of finding acceptance. Notably, it’s executive produced by Martin Scorsese and stars a trans woman in the leading role.

‘Anything’s Possible’ (2022)

Kelsa, a self-assured high school student, catches the eye of a kind classmate named Khal. The story follows their developing relationship as they deal with the typical challenges of senior year and the pressures of social media. This heartwarming coming-of-age story focuses on the joy and positivity of being transgender, rather than portraying hardship. It’s also the first film directed by Billy Porter and reflects how Gen Z views identity.

‘Joyland’ (2022)

Haider finds work as a dancer at a theater known for its sensual performances and becomes captivated by Biba, a transgender performer. Their connection grows into a powerful emotional bond, which clashes with Haider’s family’s traditional beliefs. The film examines the struggle between following your heart and meeting the expectations of society in Pakistan, and has been praised worldwide for its thoughtful and moving depiction of a taboo love story.

‘Lingua Franca’ (2019)

I recently watched this really moving film about Olivia, a caregiver in Brooklyn. She’s working hard to get her green card while also falling for the grandson of the woman she cares for – and he’s going through a lot himself. What struck me most was how the film beautifully explored being transgender alongside the very real fears of being an undocumented immigrant. It wasn’t about big reveals or dramatic ‘coming out’ moments, though. Instead, it focused on the quiet, genuine connection and intimacy between Olivia and this guy, and that felt so much more powerful.

‘Monica’ (2022)

The story follows a woman who comes home to care for her sick mother, but their relationship is strained after years of being apart, and her mother doesn’t immediately recognize her. As she fulfills her family obligations, she begins to reconnect with her past and open herself up to new relationships. The film tells this emotional journey through strong visuals and understated acting, focusing on the universal themes of family, acceptance, and forgiveness.

‘Mutt’ (2023)

Feña has a whirlwind 24 hours in New York City, unexpectedly reconnecting with both his father and a former boyfriend. The film follows him as he tries to manage these emotional encounters alongside the practical difficulties of his transition. It’s a raw and honest portrayal of relationships, especially how intimacy evolves even after someone changes, offering a realistic look at life as a trans man.

‘Fanfic’ (2023)

Tosia feels lost and confused about his gender and struggles to fit in until he meets Leon, a new student. Their connection helps Tosia embrace his true identity and start transitioning. This Polish movie beautifully captures the passionate emotions of first love alongside the freedom of discovering who you are, all told with a gentle and visually delicate style.

‘Romeos’ (2011)

I recently saw this film about Lukas, a young trans man doing his mandatory service, and it really stuck with me. He ends up living in the women’s dorm, which creates all sorts of awkward and interesting social dynamics. Beyond that, he develops a connection with this really charismatic guy, Fabio, and the movie beautifully explores the challenges Lukas faces – specifically, how much of himself he feels he needs to reveal, especially in a new relationship. It’s a really unique and refreshing look at trans male romance, and honestly, I haven’t seen anything quite like it in European cinema before.

‘Soldier’s Girl’ (2003)

Barry Winchell, a soldier, and Calpernia Addams, a performer, fell in love. Their relationship grew despite the strict and unwelcoming atmosphere of the military. The story highlights the heartbreaking results of prejudice while celebrating the real love they shared. It’s based on actual events that led to a national discussion about rules within the military.

‘The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’ (1994)

Bernadette, a transgender woman, embarks on a hilarious and heartwarming road trip across Australia in a vibrant bus with two drag queens. Along the way, she unexpectedly falls in love with Bob, a kind mechanic who truly sees her. The film blends dazzling musical performances with tender, genuine moments, and is celebrated as a groundbreaking achievement in LGBTQ+ cinema for its respectful and complex portrayal of a transgender character.

‘Alice Júnior’ (2020)

Alice, a lively transgender YouTuber, moves to a small, traditional town in Brazil. She’s determined to be herself and experience her first kiss, even while facing prejudice from some of the locals. The film is quick-paced and filled with pop culture, creating an energetic story that celebrates the strength and self-assurance of today’s transgender young people.

‘Lola and the Sea’ (2019)

Lola, a young transgender woman, is grieving the loss of her mother and facing rejection from her father. She takes a road trip with a childhood friend to scatter her mother’s ashes, and through this journey, they begin to repair their own fractured connection. The film is a story about healing, love, and how relationships can endure even through immense sadness. It portrays Lola as a fully realized person, with her identity being just one part of who she is.

‘Wild Side’ (2004)

Stephanie, a transgender woman, goes back to her small hometown to be with her mother as she nears the end of her life. She’s joined by her two partners, and their loving, open relationship provides her with strength. The story jumps between the past and present, showing the close connections built by people who often feel like outsiders. It portrays this unusual family with kindness and understanding.

‘Something Must Break’ (2014)

Sebastian and Andreas fall in love, and their relationship is intense and full of energy. Sebastian pushes back against traditional ideas about gender, wanting to be loved for who he truly is, even when society expects him to fit in. The film has a distinctive punk style and is known for its powerful, honest emotions. It beautifully portrays the exciting and sometimes painful experience of falling in love as a young person in Stockholm.

‘Close to You’ (2023)

Sam reluctantly returns home for a family reunion, marking his first visit since transitioning. While there, he reconnects with an old high school friend, and a surprising connection offers him some peace amidst the family drama. The movie feels realistic and personal because much of the dialogue was made up on the spot, showing the sometimes uncomfortable, but ultimately hopeful, experience of reconnecting with people from your past.

‘Rent’ (2005)

Angel, a talented street drummer, finds love and support with Collins. Their relationship is a central emotional anchor for the group as they navigate difficult times, including poverty and the AIDS epidemic. Angel is remembered for her kindness and strength, even when facing hardship. The musical highlights their love as genuine and vital to its overall message of embracing everyone.

2025-12-07 19:50