Introduction
Welcome to the 38th edition of the BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival! This highly anticipated event showcases the best in contemporary LGBTQIA+ cinema from around the world. Organized by the British Film Institute (BFI), the festival features a diverse selection of films, events, and archive titles. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of the upcoming festival, including dates, highlights, submission deadlines, and more.
Festival Dates and Venue
The 38th BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival will take place from13th to 24th March 2024 at BFI Southbank. This iconic venue in the heart of London sets the stage for an incredible cinematic experience, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences passionate about queer cinema.
Five Films for Freedom
One of the highlights of this year’s festival is the 10th edition of #FiveFilmsForFreedom. This initiative, in partnership with the British Council, aims to promote LGBTQIA+ rights globally. Five selected films will be available for free, allowing audiences worldwide to show solidarity with LGBTQIA+ communities in countries where freedom and equal rights are limited. The 2023 campaign attracted over three and a half million views, with a quarter of the views coming from regions with limited rights. The films celebrate love as a human right and have been viewed by over 23 million people in more than 200 countries.
Programmers and Submissions
The programming team for the 2024 edition of BFI Flare consists of talented individuals who curate a diverse range of LGBTQIA+ stories. The programmers are Grace Barber-Plentie, Jay Bernard, Zorian Clayton, Rhianna Ilube, Wema Mumma, and Brian Robinson. Their expertise ensures a comprehensive selection of films that represent the LGBTQIA+ community in all its richness.
The festival is open to submissions from filmmakers who wish to showcase their work. The submission deadlines for different categories are as follows:
- UK and international short films (25 minutes or less) –Friday 15th December 2023
- UK and international short films (26-50 minutes) –Friday 15th December 2023
- UK and international feature-length films (more than 51 minutes) –Friday 15th December 2023
Filmmakers can find detailed submission requirements and guidelines on the BFI Flare website.
Program Announcement
The full program for the 38th BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival will be announced on Tuesday 13th February 2024. This eagerly awaited announcement will reveal the lineup of films, events, and special screenings that audiences can look forward to. With the diverse programming team at the helm, audiences can expect a thought-provoking and engaging lineup that represents the breadth and depth of queer cinema.
Press Accreditation
Press accreditation for the festival will open on 13th February 2024. Journalists and media professionals interested in covering the festival can apply for accreditation. Details on how to apply will be made available soon. For press inquiries and further information, please contact:
- Press Officer/BFI National Archive & Heritage/Cultural Programme – Sarah Bemand:Sarah.Bemand@bfi.org.uk | Tel: +44 (0)20 7957 8940
- PR Manager, BFI Festivals – Sanam Hasan:Sanam.Hasan@bfi.org.uk | Tel: +44 (0)20 7957 8970
About BFI Flare
BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival is the UK’s longest-running queer film event. It originated in 1986 as “Gay’s Own Pictures” and has since grown to become the largest and most anticipated LGBTQIA+ film festival in the UK. In 2014, the festival changed its name to BFI Flare to reflect the increasing diversity of films, filmmakers, and audiences. The festival plays a vital role in promoting LGBTQIA+ stories and providing a platform for emerging talent.
About BFI and BFI NETWORK
The British Film Institute (BFI) is a cultural charity and the lead organization for film and the moving image in the UK. Established in 1933, the BFI’s mission is to support creativity, grow and care for the BFI National Archive, offer a wide range of UK and international moving image culture, and deepen public appreciation and understanding of film. The BFI collaborates with industry and government to ensure the continued growth of the UK’s screen industries.
BFI NETWORK, made possible through National Lottery funding, focuses on discovering and supporting emerging writers, directors, and producers. They provide funding for short films, support the development of first features, and offer various professional and creative development programs. To learn more about BFI NETWORK and watch supported work, visit their website or follow them on Twitter @bfinetwork.
Conclusion
The 38th BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival promises to be a celebration of queer cinema, showcasing powerful stories from around the world. With the dedication of the programming team and the support of BFI, this festival continues to be a platform for LGBTQIA+ voices and a source of inspiration for filmmakers and audiences alike. Mark your calendars for this extraordinary event and join in the celebration of love, diversity, and the power of storytelling.
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