The BFI Flare, the United Kingdom's largest LGBTQ+ film festival, is set to dazzle audiences this March as it commemorates its 40th anniversary with a vibrant and expansive programme. Launching on March 18 and running through March 29, the festival will showcase a rich array of premieres, documentaries, short films, parties, DJ nights, and screen talks, primarily in London with some events extending nationwide. A special exhibition, "40 Years of BFI Flare," at Queer Britain will add a historical touch to the celebrations.
Festival Highlights and Ticket Information
Grace Barber-Plentie, a programmer for BFI Flare, expresses excitement about the milestone, stating, "We'll be looking back at Flare's history and we're ready to celebrate." With tickets still available, Barber-Plentie has curated a selection of must-see films from a lineup featuring 65 feature films and 62 shorts. Festival-goers are advised to check the BFI Flare website after 11am during the event for last-minute ticket releases or join standby queues at BFI Southbank 30 minutes before screenings.
Top Film Recommendations
Here are ten standout films recommended by Barber-Plentie, each offering unique perspectives and storytelling within the LGBTQ+ community.
- Don't Come Out: A Dominican horror film that pays homage to classic horror with gory elements and political undertones, targeting queer people. Directed by Victoria Linares Villegas, whose previous works have been featured at Flare and the London Film Festival. Screenings: 5.50pm on Thu Mar 19 and 8.45pm on Fri Mar 20.
- The Serpent's Skin: An Australian horror film by Alice Maio MacKay, evoking a '90s and early 2000s vibe with witchy and vampire themes. Part of a new wave of trans femme filmmakers embracing DIY and punk aesthetics. Screenings: 6.10pm on Sat Mar 21 and 6.30pm on Sun Mar 22.
- Washed Up: A British magical realism romcom by Isabel Daly, set in Cornwall and following a girl who falls in love with a Selkie. Described as a sweet and quirky romance. Screenings: 8.50pm on Wed Mar 25 and 12.45pm on Sat Mar 28.
- Bearcave: An experimental arthouse film from Greece about two best friends in a small village, exploring hidden romantic tensions. It's noted for its emotional depth and gradual narrative reveals. Screenings: 5.50pm on Tue Mar 24 and 8.20pm on Wed Mar 25.
- Out Laws: A documentary highlighting three queer individuals from Sri Lanka, Barbados, and Namibia who seek refuge in the UK due to stigma. It blends colonial history with celebratory portraits of community support during Pride. Screenings: 5.50pm on Mon Mar 23 and 10.30am on Sat Mar 28.
- What Will I Become?: A documentary addressing trans youth suicide in the US, using home footage to tell the stories of two young trans male teenagers. Made by a suicide survivor, it aims to foster vulnerability and sharing. Screenings: 8.45pm on Tue Mar 24 and 6.25pm on Wed Mar 25.
- To Dance is to Resist: A documentary filmed in Ukraine from 2022 to 2025, focusing on a gay couple who are dancers. It showcases resilience amid adversity, as gay marriage remains unrecognized there. Screenings: 8.30pm on Thu Mar 26 and 6.15pm on Sat Mar 28.
- Ìfé: (The Sequel): A Nigerian lesbian film sequel that reignites conversations about African queerness, exploring messy romantic dynamics between former lovers. Screenings: 8.40pm on Mon Mar 23 and 3pm on Tue Mar 24.
- Pink Narcissus (1971): A restored queer cinema classic, experimental and visually striking, about a hustler's daydreams and fantasies. Influential in queer film history. Screening: 3.20pm on Thu Mar 19.
- Madfabulous: A period drama based on the true story of the Marquess of Anglesey, starring Callum Scott Howells, with a cast including Rupert Everett and Siobhán McSweeney. Described as big and luscious, perfect for Bridgerton fans. Screenings: 6pm on Wed Mar 25 and 3.05pm on Thu Mar 26.
For the full programme and ticket bookings, visit the official BFI Flare website. This festival not only celebrates four decades of LGBTQ+ cinema but also underscores the power of storytelling in fostering community and resilience.
