The UK’s largest LGBTQIA+ film festival will feature diverse films and conversations, spotlighting Sapphic narratives from 19 to 30 March at BFI Southbank.
BFI Flare 2025, the UK’s largest LGBTQIA+ film festival, is set to take place from 19 to 30 March at BFI Southbank in London. This annual event celebrates a diverse array of films that showcase LGBTQIA+ stories, voices, and experiences, with a focus on both emerging talent and established filmmakers.
The festival will open with the international premiere of Andrew Ahn’s touching dramedy, “The Wedding Banquet.” This film delves into the intricacies of cultural identity and familial expectations, exploring the intersection of love and tradition through a queer lens. Ahn, who is known for his sensitive storytelling, brings audiences a narrative that addresses universal themes while highlighting the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in diverse cultural settings.
BFI Flare 2025 promises a rich programme featuring a variety of Sapphic queer films and events, reflecting the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and representation. Attendees can look forward to screenings of several notable works that centre on Sapphic relationships, offering nuanced portrayals that resonate with audience members. The festival is expected to host panel discussions and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue around Sapphic narratives in film.
In addition to feature films, BFI Flare will screen a selection of short films that highlight diverse queer experiences. The festival aims to not only entertain but also educate, fostering a greater understanding of the challenges and triumphs experienced by the Sapphic community.
Overall, BFI Flare 2025 is shaping up to be a significant event in the cultural calendar, celebrating LGBTQIA+ cinema with a particular spotlight on Sapphic stories. As the festival approaches, anticipation builds around the films and discussions that will contribute to a vibrant celebration of queer culture and cinema.
Image: BFI Flare.