Netflix's 'LGBTQ' Section Is Mostly Just for Gay Men

Where are the female, trans, and bisexual movies?

arielsobelle

Netflix is being criticized for its underrepresentation of queer women and genderqueer individuals after a Twitter feed revealed its LGBTQ section consisted almost entirely of gay male films.

Twitter user @dspxna was the first to call out the lack of respresentation, launching a greater conversation about how gay men are the ones who most frequently have their stories told.

\u201cSomeone let netflix know that 678 gay men films and 2 lesbian films doesnt make a lgbtq section\u201d
— Des (@Des) 1535047812

There are 42 queer films on Netflix UK, reports Gay Star News; the Twitter user who complained is British. In the collection, 24 films centered on gay men, 10 on lesbians, and four included bisexuals. Only one featured a trans woman, but she was in a minor role.

\u201c@dspxna @debshalsey It's appalling how few lesbian films there are on Netflix UK. Considering there are some great lesbian films on DVD. I can't believe Imagine Me & You & Carol aren't on there for starters!\u201d
— Des (@Des) 1535047812

The discussion did not end there. Users went on to comment that most LGBTQ-centered films were considered "Mature" — to be viewed by audiences over 18.

\u201c@dspxna Like comics, video games, books. For whatever reason queer artists tend to create gay content, even if they sprinkle representation of other groups. However we should be supporting the little representation we have. Since there's still quality content for the rest of the acronym.\u201d
— Des (@Des) 1535047812

Others remarked about the shortcomings of the films when it comes to portraying queer women.

None
— Des (@Des) 1535047812

\u201c@DLHarpz @dspxna @debshalsey I'm all for more LGBTQ representation across the entertainment industry both in front & behind the camera. But in this case I'm specifically talking about lesbian & also bisexual women. As a lesbian I don't see nearly enough #WLW in happy & healthy relationships on TV & in films\u201d
— Des (@Des) 1535047812

\u201c@FionaQuinn66 @dspxna @debshalsey Me neither and I'm sure we're not the only ones. I'm tired of seeing the same story lines, the same tragedies, the same coming out scenarios. We exist beyond announcement.\u201d
— Des (@Des) 1535047812

But at least the discussion gave us another chance to celebrate The Babadook.