NewFest 2023: A celebration of queer cinema and culture
A vibrant showcase of LGBTQ+ stories
The 36th edition of the New York LGBTQ+ Film Festival, NewFest, is set to dazzle audiences with a rich lineup of over 140 new features, shorts, and episodic projects from 31 countries. This year’s festival, running from October 10 to October 20, promises a diverse array of screenings and events across Manhattan and Brooklyn, as well as on NewFest’s on-demand platform. Venues include the SVA Theatre, The LGBT Community Center, Brooklyn Academy of Music, and Nitehawk Prospect Park.
Opening and closing night highlights
A Nice Indian Boy
Kicking off the festival on October 10 is the New York City premiere of Roshan Sethi’s A Nice Indian Boy. This jubilant rom-com, featuring Karan Soni and Tony Award winner Jonathan Groff, explores cultural differences and joyful family reconciliations. The film had its world premiere at SXSW and is set to charm New York audiences.
Emilia Pérez
The festival will close with Jacques Audiard’s musical drama Emilia Pérez. This star-studded pop opera, which won the Cannes Jury Prize and the Best Actress award for Karla Sofía Gascón, also features Zoe Saldaña, Selena Gomez, and Adriana Paz. Audiard’s audacious fever dream defies genres and expectations, making it a fitting finale for the festival.
Documentary centerpiece
Fanatical: The Catfishing of Tegan and Sara
On October 16, Erin Carr’s Fanatical: The Catfishing of Tegan and Sara will take center stage. This searing documentary delves into the complex catfishing scheme that stole and weaponized the identity of Tegan from the queer indie band Tegan and Sara. Directed with compassion, this film offers a sprawling yet intimate look at the impact of identity theft.
International centerpiece
Bird
Andrea Arnold’s Bird, starring Barry Keoghan and Franz Rogowski, will be the international centerpiece on October 15. This unique visual exploration of a fractured world, seen through a child’s untainted gaze, is accompanied by a Britpop-infused soundtrack. Arnold’s film promises a haunting and introspective experience.
U.S. centerpiece
High Tide
Marco Calvani’s High Tide, set in Provincetown, follows the romantic journey of a Brazilian emigré and an American dreamboat. This daring and romantic film doesn’t shy away from frank discussions of taboo subjects, making it a must-see at the festival.
New York centerpiece
Liza: A Truly Terrific, Absolutely True Story
Bruce David Klein’s documentary Liza: A Truly Terrific, Absolutely True Story dives into the life and career of Liza Minnelli. This dazzling film explores how Minnelli became one of the greatest cultural icons in film, theater, music, and fashion.
Special events and advance screenings
New Voices Filmmaker Grant Showcase
Celebrate the recipients of the 2024 New Voices Filmmaker Grant with a screening of their recent short films. This program, launched in partnership with Netflix, highlights the work of emerging filmmakers Apa Agbayani, Angalis Field, Clementine Narcisse, and cai thomas.
Rotten Tomatoes Lab: Critics Edition
This panel will address how LGBTQ+ press can amplify independent queer titles. Filmmakers, critics, and journalists will discuss strategies for generating buzz around movies that tell queer stories.
ALOK – Screening & Conversation
Filmmaker Alex Hedison presents a compelling portrait of Alok Vaid-Menon, an internationally acclaimed non-binary author, poet, comedian, and public speaker. The screening will be followed by an extended conversation with Alok, Hedison, and the producers.
Somebody Somewhere Season 3
Join the cast and creators of the HBO comedy Somebody Somewhere for an advance screening of the first two episodes of the third and final season. The screening will be followed by a discussion about the series.
Veneno Season 2: Dressed in Blue
The highly anticipated follow-up to the limited series Veneno will premiere in the U.S. at NewFest. The screening will be followed by a special legacy screening of the HD restoration of Dressed in Blue (1983).
Legacy screenings and events
John Waters Threesome
Enjoy a day dedicated to John Waters with screenings of Female Trouble, Polyester, and Pecker. These cult classics are sure to delight fans of the iconic filmmaker.
Elvira: Mistress of the Dark
Celebrate the campy horror-comedy Elvira: Mistress of the Dark, a beloved film that has become a staple in queer cinema.
The Matrix
Revisit the groundbreaking sci-fi film The Matrix, which has been embraced by the LGBTQ+ community for its themes of identity and transformation.
A message from NewFest
David Hatkoff, NewFest’s Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of the festival in providing a safe and joyful space for queer audiences to celebrate their stories. He highlights the festival’s commitment to showcasing films that inspire empathy, delight, discovery, and connection.
Nick McCarthy, NewFest’s Director of Programming, adds that this year’s lineup is a bold testament to the future and legacy of queer cinema. The festival aims to celebrate the evolution of queer cinema and envision its future together.
For the full program and more details, visit the festival’s website.# A vibrant celebration of cinema and TV: A journey through iconic films and series
Rediscovering cinematic gems
In the ever-evolving world of cinema and TV series, certain films and shows stand the test of time, offering fresh perspectives and timeless entertainment. This article delves into a selection of iconic works, celebrating their anniversaries and exploring their lasting impact on audiences.
Elvira: Mistress of the Dark (1988)
Directed by James Signorelli, this madcap, fish-out-of-water romp stars the enduring queer icon Cassandra Peterson. Filled with a love of throwback genre cinema, “Elvira: Mistress of the Dark” is a delightful blend of humor and horror that continues to captivate audiences. Watch the trailer.
The Matrix (1999)
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Wachowskis’ iconic ’90s sci-fi epic, “The Matrix.” This film is renowned for its ageless cyberpunk fashions, innovative special effects, and resurgent trans symbolism. Don your sunglasses and revisit this groundbreaking film. Watch the trailer.
Looking for Langston (1989) + Tongues Untied (1989)
This landmark double-bill celebrates the 35th anniversary of two groundbreaking works of Black queer male identity, expression, and catharsis. “Looking for Langston,” directed by Isaac Julien, and “Tongues Untied,” directed by Marlon T. Riggs, offer profound insights into the Black queer experience. Watch the trailer for Looking for Langston and Tongues Untied.
The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Directed by Anthony Minghella, “The Talented Mr. Ripley” is a contemporary classic that pairs a thrilling narrative with a thematically curated multi-course meal in the fourth-annual Film Feast. Celebrate the 25th anniversary of this captivating film. Watch the trailer.
John Waters’ cinematic legacy
Female Trouble (1974)
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, John Waters’ “Female Trouble” is a saga of delinquency that spans the wretched life of self-proclaimed “thief and shit-kicker” Dawn Davenport, played by the powerhouse performer Divine. Watch the trailer.
Polyester (1981)
This delirious melodrama is one of John Waters’ finest achievements, offering a perfectly pungent parody of Douglas Sirk’s so-called “women’s pictures.” Watch the trailer.
Pecker (1998)
In “Pecker,” a happy-go-lucky amateur photographer from Baltimore becomes the toast of the haughty NYC art world. This sharp and sweet satire from John Waters is a must-watch. Watch the trailer.
Narrative features: A diverse array of stories
Asog
Directed by Seán Devlin, “Asog” follows a nonbinary femme teacher on a thrilling journey of love, resilience, and discovery. This film is a virtual exclusive that offers a unique perspective on identity and self-discovery.
Baby
Marcelo Caetano’s “Baby” tells the story of an 18-year-old recently released from a juvenile detention center who meets an alluring older man in São Paulo. This North American premiere explores themes of survival and self-discovery. Watch the trailer.
Cabo Negro
Directed by Abdellah Taïa, “Cabo Negro” is an ambiguously sexy thriller set in a tranquil Moroccan beach town. This East Coast premiere examines homophobia and sex tourism with a sly and captivating narrative. Watch the trailer.
Carnage for Christmas
Alice Maio Mackay’s “Carnage for Christmas” is a spine-chilling sleigh ride and bloodbath that places trans femme characters at the forefront. This New York premiere delivers an exhilarating horror experience. Watch the trailer.
Drip Like Coffee
“Drip Like Coffee,” directed by Anaiis Cisco, follows the simmering romance between Brooklyn baristas Kali and Mel. This New York premiere explores themes of mutual empowerment and sensual transformation. Watch the trailer.
Duino
In “Duino,” directed by Juan Pablo Di Pace and Andrés P. Estrada, a film director reconnects with a fling from his youth, exploring whether any spark remains. This New York premiere offers a poignant look at love and memory. Watch the trailer.
Extremely Unique Dynamic
This sharply satirical stoner romp, directed by Harrison Xu, Ivan Leung, and Katherine Dudas, provides an insider’s look at Hollywood while telling an affectionate story about two friends making a movie together. Watch the trailer.
Gondola
Directed by Veit Helmer, “Gondola” tells the story of two cable car operators who fall in love as they pass each other daily in their gondolas. This New York City premiere is a charming and unique love story. Watch the trailer.
Hidden Flora
Ryan Rox’s “Hidden Flora” follows a hopelessly romantic New Mexico teen navigating first love and gender identity. This inventive debut feature is a New York City premiere. Watch the trailer.
I Don’t Understand You
Directed by Brian Crano and David Craig, “I Don’t Understand You” stars Andrew Rannells and Nick Kroll as a couple whose vacation takes a hilarious turn toward disaster. This New York premiere is a comedic exploration of relationship challenges. Watch the trailer.
Layla
Amrou Al-Kadhi’s “Layla” offers a riveting journey into romance and London’s dazzling nightlife through the experiences of a young nonbinary drag performer from a Palestinian family. This New York premiere is a vibrant and emotional film. Watch the trailer.
Lilies Not for Me
Directed by Will Seefried, “Lilies Not for Me” is set in repressive 1920s England and tells the story of a young novelist recalling a love affair with a handsome doctor. This U.S. premiere explores themes of love and societal expectations. Watch the trailer.
Out
Dennis Alink’s “Out” follows two young men who move to Amsterdam to become filmmakers and explore their relationship. This New York premiere delves into the explosive and relentless queer scene of the city. Watch the trailer.
Ponyboi
Directed by Esteban Arango, “Ponyboi” stars River Gallo and Dylan O’Brien in a thrilling neo-noir about a sex worker entangled in a perilous drug deal. This East Coast premiere is a gripping and intense film. Watch the trailer.
The Queen of My Dreams
Fawzia Mirza’s “The Queen of My Dreams” follows grad student Azra as she uncovers unexpected connections with her seemingly rigid mother on a trip to Pakistan. This vibrant festival favorite is a NewFest Pride Encore virtual exclusive. Watch the trailer.
Queens of Drama
Directed by Alexis Langlois, ”Queens of Drama” is a glittery musical comedy extravaganza that follows the rise and fall of a new pop diva and her tumultuous love affair with a punk icon. This New York premiere blends personal chaos with public personas. Watch the trailer.
Rookie
Samantha Lee’s “Rookie” is a sporty romance about an awkward teen who joins the volleyball team and falls for the popular captain. This East Coast premiere explores themes of justice and love. Watch the trailer.
Throuple
Directed by Greyson Horst, “Throuple” is a modern romantic comedy about a lonely gay man who falls into a new kind of relationship with a married couple. This New York City premiere offers a fresh take on love and relationships. Watch the trailer.
Tops
“A brash, satirical mockumentary in the style of early aughts reality shows, “Tops” finds filmmaker Ames Pennington exploring life after top surgery. This East Coast premiere is a humorous and insightful film. Watch the trailer.
What a Feeling
Directed by Katharina Rohrer, “What a Feeling” is a raucous and poignant romantic comedy about two women meeting in middle age. This New York premiere explores the push-pull of family expectations and passionate fervor. Watch the trailer.
Young Hearts
Anthony Schatteman’s “Young Hearts” follows Elias as he befriends Alexander, the new neighbor across the street, and realizes he may be falling in love for the first time. This New York premiere is a touching and intimate film. Watch the trailer.
Documentary and nonfiction features
Dalton
In the realm of documentary and nonfiction features, “Dalton” offers a compelling look at the life and experiences of its subject. This film provides an in-depth exploration of personal and societal themes, making it a must-watch for documentary enthusiasts. Watch the trailer.
This curated selection of films and series offers a rich tapestry of stories, emotions, and experiences. Whether you’re a fan of classic cinema, contemporary narratives, or insightful documentaries, there’s something here to captivate and inspire. Dive into these cinematic treasures and discover the magic of storytelling.# A journey through the world of queer cinema and TV
Unveiling powerful stories and unique perspectives
In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema and TV series, the representation of queer narratives has taken center stage, offering audiences a rich tapestry of stories that challenge norms and celebrate diversity. This article delves into a selection of compelling documentaries and short films that highlight the vibrant and multifaceted experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Each piece is a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering understanding and empathy.
S’s Dream: A musical journey from Jamaica
S’s Dream, directed by Kim Longinotto and Franky Murray Brown, is a poignant documentary that follows a young musician from rural Jamaica. After winning a prestigious singing competition, the artist grapples with newfound fame while facing publicized allegations about his sexuality. This film is a powerful exploration of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of stardom. Watch the trailer.
A house is not a disco: Fire Island’s queer legacy
Directed by Brian J. Smith, A House Is Not a Disco offers a lovingly captured portrait of Fire Island, a historic queer paradise. The documentary blurs the lines between past and present, celebrating the island’s collective legacy while redefining it for a modern era. This film is a must-watch for those interested in the intersection of history and contemporary queer culture. Watch the trailer.
I’m not everything I want to be: A Czech photographer’s odyssey
I’m Not Everything I Want to Be, directed by Klára Tasovská, spans the Prague Spring of 1968 to the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. This documentary reveals the vibrant, bittersweet, and ultimately cathartic adventures of Czech photographer Libuše Jarcovjáková. Her work, reminiscent of Nan Goldin, offers a raw and intimate look at life during a tumultuous period in history. Watch the trailer.
Lady like: The rise of Lady Camden
Luke Willis’s Lady Like is an engrossing documentary about the rise to fame of dancer and drag artist Lady Camden. The film provides a gossipy reveal of the machinations behind TV’s most popular queer show while offering a loving portrait of a unique artist. This documentary is a fascinating look at the world of drag and the personal journey of one of its stars. Watch the trailer.
Lesvia: Lesbian identity on a Greek island
Lesvia, directed by Tzeli Hadjidimitriou, chronicles over 40 years of lesbian identity and conflict on the Greek island of Lesvos. The documentary explores the tensions between the locals and the lesbians who arrived seeking love, freedom, and community. This film is an expansive and insightful look at the intersection of culture, identity, and acceptance. Watch the trailer.
Life is not a competition, but I’m winning: Queer athletes’ revolution
Directed by Julia Fuhr Mann, Life Is Not a Competition, But I’m Winning is an inventive hybrid docu-essay that follows queer athletes as they revolutionize an Olympic stadium. The film redefines global sports with a bold vision of true inclusivity, spotlighting underrepresented figures who have faced discrimination. This documentary is a powerful and radical journey that challenges the binary and racist standards of traditional sports. Watch the trailer.
Meanwhile: A docu-poem on identity and resistance
Meanwhile, directed by Catherine Gund, is a docu-poem in six verses about artists breathing through chaos. The film meditates on identity, race, racism, and resistance, told through dynamic collaboration. This documentary is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of art and activism. Watch the trailer.
Reas: Community and catharsis in a women’s prison
Lola Arias’s Reas is a breathtaking nonfiction musical that follows former inmates at a women’s prison as they uncover community and catharsis through dynamic reenactments. This documentary offers a unique and powerful look at the lives of women who have faced incarceration. Watch the trailer.
The silence of my hands: Navigating long-distance love
The Silence of My Hands, directed by Manuel Acuña A., follows a couple in a long-distance relationship as they navigate physical barriers. The film explores their trust and deep level of communication as they face challenges head-on. This documentary is an intimate and moving portrayal of love and resilience. Watch the trailer.
Teaches of Peaches: Celebrating an alt queer rocker
Directed by Philipp Fussenegger and Judy Landkammer, Teaches of Peaches is a propulsive and entertaining documentary about the evolution of iconoclastic alt queer rocker Peaches. The film celebrates the 20th anniversary of her seminal album, offering a deep dive into her artistic journey. Watch the trailer.
This is ballroom: Brazil’s vibrant ballroom scene
This Is Ballroom, directed by Juru and Vitã, immerses viewers in Brazil’s vibrant ballroom scene. The documentary celebrates trans-led freedom and self-expression with explosive energy, offering a captivating look at a dynamic and empowering community. Watch the trailer.
The world according to Allee Willis: A songwriter’s celebration
Alexis Manya Spraic’s The World According to Allee Willis is an overdue celebration of Grammy award-winning songwriter and artist Allee Willis. The documentary features an extensive home video archive, charting her zany ’80s parties and inner growth. This film is a charming love note to a unique and influential artist. Watch the trailer.
Shorts programs: A diverse array of queer stories
Besties brunch: Celebrating queer friendship
The Besties Brunch shorts program celebrates the vibrant and vital role queer friendship plays in our lives. This collection of short films offers a heartwarming and entertaining look at the bonds that connect us.
Boy, so confusing: Navigating desire and confusion
Boy, So Confusing showcases the range of emotions that come with desiring another body. This shorts program explores the complexities of attraction and the confusion that often accompanies it.
Caribbean pride power: Championing queer expression
The Caribbean Pride Power shorts program offers a vivid and inspiring showcase of Caribbean LGBTQ+ experiences, joys, and reclamations. This collection of films celebrates the resilience and creativity of the Caribbean queer community.
Comedy comes out: Cringe and giggle
Comedy Comes Out is a collection of comedic short films featuring familiar faces like Meg Stalter and Ginger Minj. These films will make you cringe and giggle in equal measure, offering a lighthearted look at queer life.
Let’s do the time warp again: Queer history and personal pasts
Let’s Do the Time Warp Again pays homage to the distinct relationship that queer people have with the past. This shorts program explores both personal histories and collective queer history, offering a reflective and engaging experience.
Love is stronger than shame: Celebrating queer identities
Love Is Stronger Than Shame features five short films about demanding to be celebrated for queer identities and sexualities despite family pressure or outdated norms. This program is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
Queer lives across time & America: A holistic portrait
Queer Lives Across Time & America spans decades and the vast national landscape to capture a holistic portrait of queer life in the USA. This celebratory shorts program offers a diverse and comprehensive look at the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals across the country.
Queer teen moxie: Affirming LGBTQ+ teens
Queer Teen Moxie is an affirming shorts program curated for LGBTQ+ teens and allies. This collection of films offers a supportive and empowering look at the lives of queer teenagers, celebrating their identities and experiences.
In the realm of cinema and TV, these documentaries and short films offer a rich and diverse array of stories that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Each piece is a testament to the power of storytelling in fostering understanding, empathy, and acceptance. Whether you’re a cinema enthusiast, a TV series aficionado, or a music lover, these films provide a unique and compelling look at the vibrant world of queer culture.# A celebration of diverse voices in cinema and TV
Exploring the latest in short films and episodic pilots
Cinema and TV series enthusiasts, prepare to be captivated by a fresh wave of storytelling that pushes boundaries and celebrates diversity. This article delves into a selection of short films and episodic pilots that promise to leave a lasting impact. From transgressive narratives to empowering journeys, these works offer a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives.
Shorts: Transgressive tales
The T4Transgressive program showcases trans films that shatter expectations, delivering daring and transformative journeys with fearless trans+ protagonists. Here are some standout short films from this program:
- Annarchy Artist directed by Tempest Creation
- Binderburn directed by Atlas Acopian
- Candyland directed by David Gil
- Chloe and Jame directed by Drew Burnett Gregory
- February Fourteenth directed by Ezri Appel
- Gender Reveal directed by Mo Matton
- Notes on a Siren directed by Justice Jamal Jones
- Saturn Risin9 directed by Tiare Ribeaux and Jody Stillwater
- Thigh Rise directed by Maz Murray
These films are not just stories; they are bold statements that challenge societal norms and celebrate the resilience of the trans community.
Shorts: Trans loving care
The TLC (Trans Loving Care) program celebrates trans lives through journeys of self-empowerment and love. These films highlight decisive moments in the lives of trans individuals, showcasing their strength, reclamation, and resilience. Featured short films include:
- After Hours directed by Star Amerasu
- All the Words but the One directed by Nava Mau
- Clementine directed by Sally Tran
- Hi Ading directed by Dinaly J Tran
- Personal Mythologies directed by Susan O’Brien
- Pillow Chocolate directed by Charlie Tidmas
- Seat 31: Zooey Zephyr directed by Kimberly Reed
- The Songs of Water directed by Song Hà
- Trans Alchemy directed by Félix Endara
These films are a testament to the power of love and self-discovery, offering a poignant look at the lives of trans individuals.
Shorts: Women’s night out
The Women’s Night Out program features seven eclectic short films that explore the complexities of being a woman in an ever-evolving world. These films offer a diverse range of perspectives and experiences:
- Brain Freeze directed by Kelsey Comeau
- Lovin’ Her directed by Day
- Kasbi directed by Farah Jabir
- Zari directed by Shruti Parekh
- Night Swim directed by Grace & Emily Potter (The Potter Sisters)
- She Keeps Me Warm directed by Lee Rach
- Really Good Driver directed by Alex Song-Xia
These films delve into the multifaceted nature of womanhood, offering stories that are both relatable and thought-provoking.
Episodic pilot showcase
The Episodic Pilot Showcase presents the first episodes of five queer series, ranging from high-concept genres to grounded family stories. These pilots offer a glimpse into the rich storytelling potential of queer narratives:
- The Boy, the Queen, and Everything in Between (Episode 1) directed by Ramon Te Wake and Damon Fepulea’i
- Eve’s Rib (Episode 1) directed by James Camargo De Alba
- Friends of Sofia (Episode 1) directed by Alden Peters
- Vitch (Episode 1) directed by Lily Richards
- What About Me? (Episode 1) directed by William Lott
These pilots promise to captivate audiences with their unique perspectives and compelling storytelling.
Personal reflections and in-depth analysis
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, it’s exhilarating to witness the evolution of storytelling through these diverse voices. Each film and pilot offers a unique lens through which we can explore the human experience. The T4Transgressive and TLC programs, in particular, highlight the importance of representation and the power of authentic storytelling. These films not only entertain but also educate and inspire, fostering a deeper understanding of the trans community.
The Women’s Night Out program is a celebration of womanhood in all its forms. The films in this program offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from the humorous to the heart-wrenching, reflecting the complexities of being a woman in today’s world.
The Episodic Pilot Showcase is a testament to the growing demand for queer narratives in mainstream media. These pilots offer a promising start to series that have the potential to become cultural touchstones, much like other groundbreaking shows that have come before them.
Enriching the experience
For those eager to dive deeper into these films and series, here are direct links to trailers and information pages:
- Annarchy Artist
- Binderburn
- Candyland
- Chloe and Jame
- February Fourteenth
- Gender Reveal
- Notes on a Siren
- Saturn Risin9
- Thigh Rise
- After Hours
- All the Words but the One
- Clementine
- Hi Ading
- Personal Mythologies
- Pillow Chocolate
- Seat 31: Zooey Zephyr
- The Songs of Water
- Trans Alchemy
- Brain Freeze
- Lovin’ Her
- Kasbi
- Zari
- Night Swim
- She Keeps Me Warm
- Really Good Driver
- The Boy, the Queen, and Everything in Between (Episode 1)
- Eve’s Rib (Episode 1)
- Friends of Sofia (Episode 1)
- Vitch (Episode 1)
- What About Me? (Episode 1)
These links provide immediate access to additional details and multimedia resources, enriching your viewing experience.
In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema and TV, these films and series stand out as beacons of creativity and inclusivity. They remind us of the power of storytelling to bridge divides, foster empathy, and celebrate the rich diversity of the human experience.