Favorite Movies

Pleased with the success of 1996’s initial presentation, HBO gathered another group of successful actresses for IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK 2. Set in the same suburban house as the original--but with different inhabitants--this made-for-cable trilogy is a dramatic exploration into the lives of three separate lesbian couples in three different moments in history. The first chapter, 1961, tells the somber story of an aging woman (Vanessa Redgrave) who is left facing prejudice and intolerance after the death of her longtime companion. Unable to come to terms with her complex situation, she is forced to suffer alone, confused and distraught. The second installment, 1972, follows a young lesbian college student (Michelle Williams) who falls in love with a masculine woman (Chloe Sevigny). Unfortunately, her feminist friends refuse to accept their union, creating even more turmoil in the young woman’s life. The film concludes with 2000, which tells the story of a lesbian couple (Sharon Stone and Ellen DeGeneres) who are searching for the perfect sperm donor to start a family. Featuring standout performances by Redgrave (who won a Golden Globe for her heartbreaking performance), Sevigny, and Stone, this enlightening made-for-cable drama was nominated for four Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Made for Television Movie.

This adaptation of Sarah Waters popular novel follows Nan Astley (Rachael Stirling) as she blossoms into womanhood and explores her sexuality, ostensibly forbidden in Victorian society. Nan seems destined for marriage to a nice, but dull, suitor in her seaside, English town. However, a trip to the theater changes everything when she falls in love at first sight with the ravishing Kitty Butler (Keeley Hawes), a gorgeous woman who makes a living posing as a young boy and singing in a vaudeville-style cabaret--even to the extent of cutting her hair short. Though at first unable to identify her feelings, Nan simply cannot get enough of Kitty, and soon begins to spend every available second with her. As the two grow closer, Kitty invites Nan to accompany her to London. Against her family's wishes, the two move, and Nan eventually joins the show as another gender-bending performer. However, while Nan feels only blissful love for Kitty, Kitty cannot accept the fact of their relationship, and soon begins an affair with a man. Her relationship over, devastated Nan has no career and no love. Using the boyish costumes from her show, Nan begins to prostitute herself to men who are looking for teenage boys. From there, her life spins in wild directions, as she resolves her sexuality, becomes a concubine for an abusive wealthy woman, again ascends to stardom, and finds true love.

Showtime's frank and vibrant television drama The L Word details the personal and professional exploits of a group of lesbian and bisexual women in the hip West Hollywood section of Los Angeles. Writer Jenny (Mia Kirshner) is fresh out of college and has just moved to the city to be with her swim coach boyfriend Tim (Eric Mabius). Their neighbors, Bette (Jennifer Beals) and Tina (Laurel Holloman), are a lesbian couple looking for a sperm donor so they can become parents. Among their friends are closeted tennis player Dana (Erin Daniels), kooky bisexual Alice (Leisha Haley), promiscuous Joan Jett-lookalike Shane (Katherine Moennig), and Bette's recovering alcoholic half-sister Kit (Pam Grier). As Jenny becomes integrated into this group of strong personalities, she begins to challenge her lifelong heterosexuality with a torrid affair with exotic cafe owner Marina (Karina Lombard). Driven by smart writing, moody direction, and provocative storylines, The L Word is a truly groundbreaking series that delves into issues specific to the lesbian community without sacrificing universality.