What are some gay/lesbian movies from the 1930s?

Answer 1

many films in this era had gay characters, but very little of this was spelled out in the storyline.
FRANKENSTEIN (1931) and it's sequels (mostly directed by James Whale, who was gay) are considered to have a gay subplot, because the scientist ignored his fiance to create his own "man."
THESE THREE (1936) was based on a play (CHILDREN'S HOUR) about a frustrated Lesbian love-affair, but is generally depressing and vague.
42ND STREET (1933) This movie about the broadway theatre world takes us out of "real" life and onto the stage, where everything is "styled" by the obviously gay character played by Warner Baxter. Art is all that matters in these people's lives.
LITTLE CAESAR (1930) the star Edward G. Robinson is obviously obssessed with his sidekick Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., and this is one of the most endearing things about his violent character.

Answer 2

With as represive as American society was in the 30's, I'd just about bet money there weren't any that survived.. I imagine the only ones would be lowgrade stag films, but I think that stuff didn't start till after WW2.