The 23rd Mardi Gras Film Festival from Queer Screen promises to set hearts beating and pulses racing with a raft of exciting Australian premieres, award winners and an Oscar contender announced in its teaser program.
Every year we look forward to the Mardi Gras Film Festival and it’s no surprise that next year is one that isn’t going to disappoint! Not only are the films entertaining but also challenging and provoking. 2016’s Mardi Gras Film Festival promises to deliver something for everyone.
“2016 is a universal festival and caters for everyone under the rainbow,” explains Festival Director Paul Struthers. “Film subjects range from athletes and dancers to local heroes and features straight, gay, lesbian, trans, and bi-sexual characters from across the world. Whatever genre you are into from lighthearted comedies to surreal horror we have it covered. It’s definitely our most wide-ranging and exciting festival yet”.
The Festival will open on Thursday 18 February with with a gala showing of the Australian premiere of the sensual French film Summertime. Other Australian premieres to be screened include the hauntingly beautiful Thai Oscar entry for 2016 How to Win at Checkers (Every Time), Addicted to Fresno starring Natasha Lyonne, the captivating Venezuelan lesbian film, Liz in September, and Coming In; a comedy from the director and star of gay classic Summer Storm.
Remembering the Man, a new documentary of the tragic tale of Australian lovers Timothy Conigrave and John Caleo, will make its Sydney debut at the Festival. This documentary is based on the film/play Holding the Man, which has received many accolades such as the winner of Most Popular Documentary at the Adelaide Film Festival.
Tickets are now on sale for the first 11 films at queerscreen.org.au and my advice is that you get in early as often the films sell out very quickly. The full program is released on January 14th so don’t forget to check back with Sydney Social 101 to discover the new options!
Words by Lyndon Pullen
WHAT: Mardi Gras Film Festival 2016
WHEN: 18 February to 3 March 2016
WHERE: Event Cinemas, George St
COST: There are many different types of film passes that are available and if you decide to become a member of Queer Screen there is an offer of discounted tickets and priority entry.
BOOKING: Visit queerscreen.org.au or call (02) 9332 4938
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