Wrapping up with the world premiere of Lady Like, the queer film festival saw a 7.5% increase in ticket holders compared to last year
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY MILLIE TURNER
The 38th edition of BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA Film Festival wrapped up on 24 March, marking another successful year for one of the UK’s most beloved celebrations of queer cinema. Hosted primarily at the iconic BFI Southbank, the festival witnessed a notable surge in attendance, with a 7.5% increase in audiences compared to the previous year. Particularly striking was the fact that 54% of attendees were new to BFI Flare, indicating a growing interest and outreach of the festival.
Kicking off with the European Premiere of Layla, attended by director Amrou Al-Kadhi and lead actor Bilal Hasna, the festival set a high standard for the diverse array of films and events that followed. Closing on a high note, the world premiere of Lady Like, helmed by director Luke Willis and featuring documentary subject Lady Camden, left a lasting impression on audiences.
Special presentations throughout the festival included Crossing, with director Levan Akin in attendance, and Close To You featuring Elliot Page alongside co-star Hillary Baack and director Dominic Savage. Elliot himself engaged in a rare on-stage Screen Talk interview, reflecting on his expansive career to a captivated audience.
The festival showcased a total of 58 feature films and 81 shorts from 41 countries, including five world premieres, two international premieres, six European premieres, and 23 UK Premieres.
In addition to the physical screenings, the festival’s digital initiative #FiveFilmsForFreedom garnered over three million views worldwide, underscoring its impact in promoting LGBTQIA visibility and rights globally.
Industry-focused discussions and events, including sessions on authentic representation, advocacy, and spotlighting LGBTQIA cinema from Greece, provided valuable insights and networking opportunities for filmmakers and industry professionals.
BFI Flare also celebrated a decade of its BFI Flare x BAFTA partnership, supporting the development of LGBTQIA UK filmmakers through its professional development program. Alumni success stories, such as those of Amrou Al-Kadhi and Savannah James-Bayly, highlighted the program’s efficacy in nurturing talent within the industry.
With its rich lineup of films, engaging events, and impactful initiatives, BFI Flare 2024 reaffirmed its status as a vital platform for queer cinema and community engagement.
DIVA magazine celebrates 30 years in print in 2024. If you like what we do, then get behind LGBTQIA media and keep us going for another generation. Your support is invaluable.
