Movies That Let Black Queer Characters Be the Comic Relief (and Steal the Show)

For decades, movies have benefited from the energy and humor of Black queer characters. Often going beyond the typical “sassy best friend” role, these characters frequently become the most captivating and essential parts of a film—whether they’re moving the story forward or simply delivering the funniest lines. They grab your attention and aren’t easily ignored. The films below showcase performances where Black queer identities are central to the comedy.

‘Car Wash’ (1976)

This funny movie from the 1970s features Antonio Fargas as Lindy, a confident and openly cross-dressing employee. Lindy was a groundbreaking character for the time, refusing to be ridiculed and instead using cleverness to handle those who disapproved. In a particularly memorable scene, Lindy defends his identity with both humor and grace against a judgmental colleague. Fargas delivers a sensitive and thoughtful performance, avoiding stereotypes and making Lindy the film’s most captivating character.

‘Mannequin’ (1987)

Meshach Taylor is unforgettable as Hollywood, the wonderfully over-the-top window dresser who becomes a steadfast friend to the main character. Hollywood challenges traditional ideas of masculinity in the 1980s with his bold fashion and dramatic flair, bringing energy to every moment. Taylor’s brilliant comedic timing and expressive acting perfectly complement the film’s fantastical love story. His performance is still celebrated as a significant and heartwarming example of LGBTQ+ representation in popular 80s movies.

‘The Brady Bunch Movie’ (1995)

RuPaul appears in a memorable guest role as Mrs. Cummings, Jan Brady’s school counselor. Even with limited screen time, RuPaul perfectly delivers funny, matter-of-fact advice that contrasts with the Brady family’s innocent worldview. The character playfully hints that the show knows how silly the 1970s styles look in a 90s context. This appearance was an important step in bringing drag culture to a wider audience through family-friendly comedy.

‘To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar’ (1995)

Wesley Snipes gives a remarkable performance as Noxeema Jackson, one of three drag queens traveling across the country. Noxeema is the group’s no-nonsense, witty protector, offering memorable lines and playful insults. Snipes skillfully combines the role’s comedic moments with heartfelt emotion, especially when guiding a young woman in a small town. The film portrays Noxeema as both hilarious and deeply human.

‘The Fifth Element’ (1997)

Chris Tucker is incredibly energetic and funny as Ruby Rhod, a wildly expressive radio host from outer space who unexpectedly becomes part of a world-saving adventure. His fast-paced, loud delivery is a hilarious counterpoint to the film’s serious hero. Ruby Rhod challenged expectations with a unique style and personality, becoming a memorable figure in action movies. This role truly established Chris Tucker as a comedy star and remains a standout part of this beloved science fiction film.

‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ (1997)

Lady Chablis, a genuine drag queen, plays a version of herself in this moody Southern mystery and quickly became a fan favorite. She brings much-needed energy and humor to the serious courtroom scenes, captivating viewers whenever she’s on screen. Her lines are witty, realistic, and direct, offering a refreshing contrast to the polished world of Savannah’s elite. Chablis proved she was more than just a character from the book the film is based on – she’s a natural performer who stood out even alongside experienced Hollywood actors.

‘But I’m a Cheerleader’ (1999)

RuPaul plays a character named Mike, a counselor at a camp that tries to change teenagers’ sexual orientation. Mike presents himself as a traditionally masculine figure, ironically, while RuPaul is known worldwide as a drag queen. The humor comes from this contrast – RuPaul, in disguise, is teaching boys how to be “straight” and perform traditionally masculine activities like fixing cars. It’s a brilliant satire, where RuPaul uses a serious, over-the-top performance to expose how ridiculous the camp’s goals are. From the beginning, the audience knows Mike is a phony, making him a funny yet pointed authority figure.

‘Punks’ (2000)

This beloved romantic comedy focuses on the lives of a group of Black gay men in Los Angeles, offering both hilarious moments and genuine emotion. Rockmond Dunbar and Seth Gilliam give standout performances as they navigate the ups and downs of friendship and love within their community. Often compared to a queer ‘Waiting to Exhale,’ the film blends dramatic storylines with witty and relatable humor. It’s a unique and highly regarded look at Black gay life from around the year 2000.

‘Holiday Heart’ (2000)

Ving Rhames delivers a heartfelt and unexpected performance as Holiday, a drag queen who opens her home to a mother struggling with addiction and her daughter. Though the film tackles difficult subjects, Rhames brings a resilient humor and playful attitude to the role, offering moments of levity. Holiday uses lip-syncing and sharp wit to protect herself from a difficult world. This role allowed Rhames to demonstrate his versatility, stepping away from his usual tough-guy image to portray a character who is both caring, funny, and ultimately, tragic.

‘Kinky Boots’ (2005)

Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Lola, a vibrant cabaret singer who steps in to help a shoe factory owner whose business is failing. Lola brings energy and teaches the workers about acceptance through music and dance. Ejiofor’s performance is captivating, showing both Lola’s lively stage presence and her more subtle, thoughtful side. She sparks positive change, demonstrating how a touch of fun and understanding can help people connect despite their differences.

‘Rent’ (2005)

Wilson Jermaine Heredia is bringing his acclaimed Broadway performance as Angel back to the stage. Angel is a vibrant drummer and drag queen who holds the group of friends together with his infectious energy. Even while battling a serious illness, Angel fills the story with lightheartedness and joy, especially showcased in the lively musical number ‘Today 4 U’. His constant optimism and humor offer a welcome break from the heavier themes of struggle and survival.

‘The Skinny’ (2012)

This film, directed by Patrik-Ian Polk, centers on a group of college friends who reconnect in New York City. The movie is funny and often outrageous, with a talented cast delivering witty banter and navigating complicated relationships. It provides a realistic and honest portrayal of young Black gay men and their social lives, without shying away from authentic language or behavior. The comedy comes from the strong connection and chemistry between the actors and is rooted in their shared cultural experiences.

‘Pitch Perfect’ (2012)

Ester Dean portrays Cynthia Rose in the Barden Bellas, a character celebrated for her beatboxing and sarcastic wit. Despite appearing briefly, she consistently steals the show with her perfectly timed, dry delivery and habit of missing social cues. When she comes out, it’s played for laughs because everyone already knew, cleverly avoiding a typical dramatic reveal. Dean’s excellent comedic timing has made Cynthia Rose a beloved character in the a cappella movies.

‘Dear White People’ (2014)

I’m really impressed with Tyler James Williams’ performance as Lionel Higgins. He plays this incredibly relatable, shy, and gay college journalist who’s just trying to navigate the craziness happening around him. What I love is that Lionel isn’t in the thick of the campus drama, he’s observing it, and his reactions – whether it’s a silent, confused look or a muttered, sarcastic comment – are exactly what I’m thinking! Williams is brilliant at subtle comedy; he doesn’t need big gestures, and it makes Lionel the most down-to-earth character in what is already a pretty satirical show.

‘Dope’ (2015)

Kiersey Clemons shines as Diggy, a confident and authentic lesbian drummer navigating the challenges of high school in a rough area. Diggy’s relaxed, slightly masculine style and calm personality offer a funny counterpoint to the main character’s anxiousness. Her humor is understated – a raised eyebrow or a sharp comment says it all. Clemons perfectly portrays Diggy as someone who is effortlessly cool and refuses to conform to anyone else’s expectations.

‘Tangerine’ (2015)

Mya Taylor and Kitana Kiki Rodriguez shine as Alexandra and Sin-Dee in this funny and energetic Christmas Eve story set in Los Angeles. The film follows Sin-Dee’s wild pursuit of her unfaithful boyfriend, and it’s packed with quick-witted, hilarious conversations between the two leads. Their genuine connection and playful back-and-forth keep the fast-paced, sometimes tough, story grounded and make it a truly funny watch.

‘Hurricane Bianca’ (2016)

Shangela shines as Stephen, the main character’s upbeat and encouraging best friend, bringing her vibrant personality to the role. Stephen provides comedic relief and wholeheartedly supports the wild revenge scheme with Southern flair. Shangela’s natural stage presence, honed through drag performance, is a perfect fit for the film’s over-the-top humor. The strong connection between the actors makes the already playful script even more enjoyable, turning it into a lively tribute to drag culture.

‘Love, Simon’ (2018)

Clark Moore portrays Ethan, a confident and fashionable gay student at Simon’s school who isn’t afraid of bullies. Ethan contrasts with Simon, who is struggling with his sexuality, and demonstrates that being openly gay can be a positive experience. Moore’s performance brings a lot of humor to the film, particularly in Ethan’s clever responses to the vice principal. Importantly, Moore avoids portraying Ethan as a one-dimensional character, instead showing him as someone who uses humor to cope and thrive.

‘Dumplin” (2018)

Harold Perrineau is fantastic as Lee, a drag queen who guides a group of unconventional pageant contestants. He teaches them the skills they need – walking, performing, and self-acceptance – with a mix of tough love and humor. Perrineau plays Lee with a sense of both world-weariness and dazzling glamour, acting as a kind of wise older figure. His scenes are full of energy and happiness, and they’re key to helping the main character believe in herself.

‘A Star Is Born’ (2018)

Shangela and Willam shine as the witty and energetic hosts of the drag bar where Lady Gaga’s character, Ally, is first discovered. Shangela especially takes on a mentoring role, encouraging Ally to perform and keeping things running backstage. Their quick-witted conversations and playful teasing feel genuinely rooted in drag culture. These scenes offer a welcome dose of fun and levity before the movie shifts to more serious themes.

‘Booksmart’ (2019)

Austin Crute shines as Alan, a flamboyant theater student who first appears as a competitor but quickly proves to be a fun and energetic friend. His karaoke performance of “You Oughta Know” is one of the film’s funniest moments, demonstrating both his powerful voice and lively personality. Alan breaks away from typical tropes by being genuinely welcoming and joining in on all the night’s excitement. Crute’s expressive performance and physical comedy make Alan a memorable and hilarious character.

‘Like a Boss’ (2020)

Billy Porter shines as Barrett, a no-nonsense employee in the beauty world. He steals the show with a story about getting fired that starts sad but quickly becomes incredibly funny. Porter’s fantastic performance elevates his supporting role to a highlight of the film. Barrett acts like a narrator, bluntly pointing out the mistakes of the main characters.

‘Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend’ (2020)

Tituss Burgess is back as the hilarious Titus Andromedon in this special interactive movie! He’s at it again, this time dealing with the chaos of a film shoot where his over-the-top personality and cluelessness are hilariously exposed. Burgess delivers every line with incredible energy, transforming even the simplest problems into show-stopping performances. Titus continues to be a standout comedic character, perfectly blending self-absorption with a genuinely endearing charm – he’s a modern icon for Black queer comedy.

‘Zola’ (2020)

Colman Domingo delivers a captivating performance as X, the unsettling and surprisingly funny villain in this adventurous road trip story. Though dangerous, Domingo brings a chaotic energy to the role – complete with a constantly changing accent and unpredictable moods – that often lands as darkly humorous. This keeps viewers both anxious and amused, making X a truly memorable antagonist who expertly blends threat with absurdity.

‘Cinderella’ (2021)

Billy Porter puts a fresh spin on the Fairy Godmother, transforming her into “Fab G” – a magical, gender-neutral character who guides the main character toward her goals. Fab G makes a grand entrance with a stunning outfit and a playful, modern personality, replacing traditional rhymes with clever humor. Porter’s well-known sense of style shines through, making the magic feel like a high-fashion event. This new take on the character brings a welcome dose of contemporary flair to the classic fairy tale.

‘The Blackening’ (2022)

Dewayne Perkins, who also helped write the movie, plays Dewayne – a gay best friend determined to break the horror movie mold. He’s tired of seeing that character be the first to go, so he uses his knowledge of scary movies and pop culture to stay alive. Dewayne is a smart, sarcastic, and capable character who defies the typical helpless victim. Perkins makes him the witty heart of the film, delivering the best lines even while battling for survival.

‘Bros’ (2022)

Ts Madison shines as Angela, the protagonist’s no-nonsense neighbor. Though she’s only in a few scenes, her quick appearances are memorable and funny, as she bluntly calls him out on his overthinking from across the street. Madison infuses the role with the same vibrant energy she’s known for online, cutting through the main character’s self-importance. She offers a fresh, relatable voice from a different generation within the LGBTQ+ community, balancing the film’s more specific concerns with widespread humor.

‘Bottoms’ (2023)

Ayo Edebiri plays Josie, a somewhat awkward and anxious lesbian who tries to start a fight club, hoping to get the attention of the cheerleaders. Edebiri’s humor relies on physical comedy and uncomfortable moments, with her character often stumbling over words and overreacting to situations. While she’s the more grounded one compared to her wild best friend, it’s Josie’s attempts to seem cool that are the funniest parts. She’s a welcome change from typical confident LGBTQ+ characters, showing the often messy and confusing experience of having crushes in high school.

‘Theater Camp’ (2023)

Ayo Edebiri shines as Janet, a new camp counselor who pretends to have theater experience despite knowing very little about it. Her attempts to teach the kids – like suggesting cheating as a way to do stage fighting – are brilliantly funny. The humor comes from how unqualified she is compared to the dedicated theater kids and other staff. Edebiri delivers a wonderfully understated performance that keeps the show’s quirky style grounded.

‘Mean Girls’ (2024)

Jaquel Spivey plays the memorable role of Damian Hubbard in this musical version of the popular high school comedy. As Cady’s initial friend, Damian is a funny and insightful character who guides the story with a lot of personality. Spivey’s performance, including musical numbers woven into Damian’s famous lines, is scene-stealing. He also brings a modern take to the character, portraying Damian as a proud, openly queer Black individual, turning a potentially problematic stereotype into something joyful and comedic.

Tell us which of these iconic characters made you laugh the hardest in the comments.

2025-12-17 04:48