In small mining towns, life moves to the rhythm of hard work and coal dust. Amid the everyday grind, though, some stories that deserve the largest microphone go unheard, stories of people who make their place with determination, all while staying true to who they are.

Netflix is bringing one such story to the screen with Queen of Coal, a movie that follows a trans miner who balances life underground and above. Antonella Rodriguez takes center stage as the offering promises to explore identity, courage, and the challenges of living authentically in a world that is not always ready to accept change.

This will not be Netflix's first time telling a tale that gives space to the LGBTQ+ community, but it remains a significant one nonetheless.

Queen of Coal brings together a strong cast led by Lux Pascal, who plays Carlita Antonella Rodríguez, the real-life trans woman whose story inspired the film. She is joined by Laura Grandinetti, Romina Escobar, Simone Mercado, Federico Marzullo, Gabriela Pastor, Agostina Innella, and Paco León.

The film is directed by Agustina Macri, who keeps the focus on the people at the heart of the story. Writers are Erika Halvorsen and Mara Pescio.

Their grounded approach makes the characters feel honest and relatable, depicting what everyday life looks like for someone trying to fit into a world that was not built with them in mind. The larger plot of the flicks explores much more. 

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Queen of Coal celebrates the power of dreams and the perseverance required to make them real

Queen of Coal follows Carlita, a trans woman who dreams of working in the coal mines of Patagonia, a place where many believe mining is a man’s job. In this town, old beliefs and superstitions still run deep, including the idea that women entering the mines bring bad luck.

Carlita’s decision to take on the job places her directly in the center of long-held fears and traditions. She knows people will judge her, but she wants to prove she deserves the chance to work like anyone else.

The story shows how Carlita handles the pressure both inside the mine and outside it. She faces doubts, gossip, and moments of profound loneliness. Yet she also finds support in unexpected places and discovers strength she did not realize she possessed. The offering is closer to its Netflix release than one may realize.

The film was first released in Spain on June 12, 2025, and later in Argentina on October 2. Now, Queen of Coal is receiving its global release on Netflix on December 19, giving viewers everywhere the chance to watch Carlita’s inspiring journey.

As the film prepares to arrive on Netflix, it promises to leave viewers with a story that lingers long after the credits roll. It stands as a reminder of how far courage can carry someone who refuses to shrink themselves for others. With its heartfelt journey and quiet strength, the film appears poised to become one of Netflix’s treasured Pride offerings.

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Will you be watching Queen of Coal when it lands on Netflix? Let us know in the comments.