Abstract

LGBTQ+ acceptance rates are rapidly increasing, more so than any minority in history. While there can be many reasons for this, one possible facet is the portrayal of queer people on the big screen. It wasn’t until recent years that explicit LGBTQ+ characters were shown on screen, and even then, it is common for them to be stereotyped or heavily ignored by other characters and in plotlines. These marginal characters can actually encourage prejudice and misconceptions of identities. However, queer characters and stories that are accurate and true to the LGBTQ+ experience have had profound impacts on society. They have acted as a source of strength for LGBTQ+ people, especially youth. Accurate stories also help others understand queer identities and lives more, especially if there isn’t someone with an LGBTQ+ identity in their own lives. It is crucial that these stories are lifted up and brought into the spotlight in order to nurture acceptance and understanding in our world.