The Reel Deal: LGBTQIA+ Live Action Adaptations
- Ingrid Rivera
- Jun 14, 2024
- 4 min read
We're diving into the captivating world of book-to-screen adaptations! From the silver screen to the small screen, literature has long served as a wellspring of inspiration for filmmakers and television creators alike. Join us as we explore the magic of storytelling in both cinematic and episodic formats, delving into the nuances of adaptation and celebrating the artistry that transforms words on a page into unforgettable visual experiences. Whether you're a die-hard book lover or a cinephile searching for your next binge-worthy series, there's something for everyone in these remarkable adaptations. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's journey from the page to the screen together!

Disclaimer: This post discusses books that may contain sensitive material. Reader discretion is advised. Please use your judgment and conduct further research if you have specific concerns.
On The Silver Screen
Welcome to El Paso, Texas, where Aristotle (Ari) and Dante, two Mexican teenagers whose lives are seemingly worlds apart, collide. Dante's ease of expression and self-assurance starkly contrast to Ari's struggle with words and persistent self-doubt. Yet, amidst their differences, a bond blossoms, defying expectations and forging a connection that transcends barriers of race, ethnicity, and personal adversity. Together, Ari and Dante navigate the hurdles that threaten to tear them apart, drawing strength from their unwavering belief in each other and the transformative power of their bond. The magic of their story now comes to life, shining a whole new light on their search for belonging.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
Mexican teenagers Aristotle Mendoza and Dante Quintana explore their friendship while struggling with racial and ethnic identity, sexuality and family relationships in 1987 El Paso, Texas.
The film stars Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzalez in the titular roles of Aristotle and Dante, respectively. They are joined by Veronica Falcon, Eugenio Derbez, Eva Longoria, Kevin Alejandro, Jose Diaz, Maynor Alvarado, Marlene Forte, Isabella Gomez, Hanani Taylor, Luna Blaise, Diego Parra, Marcelo Olivas, Emiliano Torres, Melissa Macedo, Michelle Macedo, and Martin Morales.
Max Pelayo (left), Aitch Alberto, writer (center), Reese Gonzalez (right)

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
by Benjamin Alire Saenz
Dante can swim. Ari can't. Dante is articulate and self-assured. Ari has a hard time with words and suffers from self-doubt. Dante gets lost in poetry and art. Ari gets lost in thoughts of his older brother who is in prison. Dante is fair skinned. Ari's features are much darker. It seems that a boy like Dante, with his open and unique perspective on life, would be the last person to break down the walls that Ari has built around himself.
But against all odds, when Ari and Dante meet, they develop a special bond that will teach them the most important truths of their lives, and help define the people they want to be. But there are big hurdles in their way, and only by believing in each other―and the power of their friendship―can Ari and Dante emerge stronger on the other side.
Show Buzz
Based on Alice Oseman's beloved graphic novel series, Heartstopper follows the endearing journey of Charlie Spring and Nick Nelson, two boys whose unlikely friendship blossoms into something more amidst the halls of Truham Grammar School for Boys in Britain. In this charming series, we follow Charlie and Nick as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence and budding romance. Despite their differences, friendship quickly blooms, offering solace and companionship in the face of personal struggles and societal expectations. As Charlie falls for Nick, he grapples with self-doubt and uncertainty, unsure if his feelings will ever be reciprocated.

Heartstopper
Teens Charlie and Nick discover their unlikely friendship might be something more as they navigate school and young love in this coming-of-age series.
The series stars Joe Locke and Kit Connor in the roles of Charlie Spring and Nick Nelson, respectively. They are joined by William Gao, Yasmin Finney, Tobie Donovan, Cormac Hyde-Corrin, Rhea Norwood, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Sebastian Croft, Ashwin Vishwanath, Evan Ovenell, Fisayo Akinade, Olivia Coleman, Araloyin Oshunremi, Jenny Walser, Leila Khan, Nima Taleghani, Chetna Pandya, Bradley Riches, Joseph Balderrama, Georgina Rich, and features a cameo by comic author Alice Oseman.
Joe Locke (left), Alice Oseman, creator (center), Kit Connor (right)

Heartstopper: Volume One
by Alice Oseman
Charlie, a highly-strung, openly gay over-thinker, and Nick, a cheerful, soft-hearted rugby player, meet at a British all-boys grammar school. Friendship blooms quickly, but could there be something more...?
Charlie Spring is in Year 10 at Truham Grammar School for Boys. The past year hasn't been too great, but at least he's not being bullied anymore. Nick Nelson is in Year 11 and on the school rugby team. He's heard a little about Charlie - the kid who was outed last year and bullied for a few months - but he's never had the opportunity to talk to him.
They quickly become friends, and soon Charlie is falling hard for Nick, even though he doesn't think he has a chance. But love works in surprising ways, and sometimes good things are waiting just around the corner...
The first two seasons of Heartstopper are available to stream on Netflix. Season three will be released on October 3, 2024.
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