It’s time to come out… to the 29th annual Melbourne Queer Film Festival (MQFF)
The largest queer film festival in the southern hemisphere is celebrating 29 years with an 11-day event, running from March 14th-25th. This year promises to to be larger than ever with over 100 sessions at ACMI, Cinema Nova, and Village Cinemas, that cannot be missed.
MQFF plays a vital role in providing the community with access to LGBTI+ content with the purpose to educate, entertain and celebrate diversity. The festival bolsters the voice of an underrepresented community whilst showcasing the best contemporary queer cinema the world has to offer.
If you’re not a film buff, that’s okay, the curated program will feature panels, workshops, parties and Q&A sessions which will celebrate LGBTI+ culture. There’s something for everyone!
Here are some key events you don’t want to miss:
Rafiki
Following the lives of two young woman on the streets of Nairobi, Rafiki tells the story of love at first sight against the backdrop of an intensely conservative community. The film triumphantly highlights the beautiful connection between Kent and Ziki, as they continue to face the dangers their community imposes on their relationship, while also navigating the conflict inflicted through their two father’s opposing each other in the local election. Rafiki is a once in a lifetime experience that’ll resonate with you long after the films conclusion.
Rafiki will be screened as Cinema Nova on March 21st at 8:30PM, however tickets are limited.
For more information and tickets, click here.
TransMilitary
A documentary bound to tug at the heartstrings, TransMilitary promises to open the audience up to the real lives of many transgender military personnel affected by the policy which bans transgender individuals from serving in the military. Following the experiences of four dedicated personnel – Jenn, Laila, Logan and El –who risk their careers by coming out as transgender, TransMilitary shines a light on the importance of this issue and how the reinstatement of this policy by Donald Trump endangers the foundation of the community.
SmokeScreen
SmokeScreen is a panel discussion hosted by author, journalist, screenwriter, and all around awesome human Benjamin Law. The panel will explore the links between queer art, film, culture, health and human rights. It’s sure to be insightful and worthwhile visit. Best of all? The event is free!
This is a free event which will be hosted at ACMI The Cube on March 20th at 6.30 PM.
For more information and tickets, click here.
This is only just the beginning of what’s set to be an incredible slate of films and events. Head on over to MQFF’s website, view the full program, and grab your tickets now!
