This movie is probably one of the most important LGBT films to come out of the 90s, and it works in a way that appeals to wider audiences as well as the gay community. For that reason, I think it belongs on this list. It stars Natasha Lyonne as an incredibly naive teenager whose parents send her away to straight camp. But she's absolutely convinced that she's not a lesbian...until she gets there. Ironically, the camp that was supposed to turn her straight allows her to come to terms with her sexual identity. It's a satirical black comedy that shines a light on the absurdism of conversion therapy. In a lot of ways, the film challenges traditional gay and lesbian stereotypes in a time when most people were just coming to terms with gays portrayed in the media at all. It also deals with issues of gender and stereotypical gender roles, as shown through the 5-step process instituted by the camp. Hot off her success from American Pie, Natasha Lyonne turns in a fantastic performance as the sweet and innocent Megan, while the film also features standout performances from Clea Duvall and the villainous Cathy Moriarty.
Audrey Fox is an ex-film student, which means that she prefers to spend her days in the dark, watching movies and pondering the director's use of diegetic sound. She currently works as an entertainment writer, joyfully rambling about all things film and television related. Add her on Twitter at @audonamission and check out her film blog at 1001moviesandbeyond.com.
