The nominations spanned eight different countries, with Rookie and Last ExMas securing two nominations
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY ROOKIE FILM
The Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, a celebration of queer cinema, has unveiled its 2024 shortlist for two major performance awards. Highlighting exceptional talent across the globe, the nominations span eight countries: Belgium, Netherlands, Canada, Australia, Greece, Brazil, the Philippines, and Argentina. Two feature films, Rookie (Philippines) and Last ExMas (Canada), each secured two nominations.
The Best Performance in a Female Role category, sponsored by DIVA Magazine, showcases powerful performances from women and non-binary actors. Aya Fernandez, nominated for her portrayal of Jana in Rookie, expressed her excitement, dedicating the nomination to young queer girls, encouraging them to “own, excel, and grow” in all their endeavours. Fellow Rookie star, Pat Tinguiy, emphasised the importance of stories that “move hearts and minds”.
Also vying for the award is Luciana Grasso for Vera And The Pleasure of Others, praised for her magnetic portrayal of a restless teenager navigating life in Argentina. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to “expand horizons and views” through her work.
From Canada, Last ExMas co-stars Shaeane Jimenez and Elena Milo were both nominated for their performances as Julianne and Maggie. Jimenez celebrated her feature film debut, while Milo reflects on the personal connection she felt to her character.
Berwyn Rowlands, Director of the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, praised the nominated performances as “spectacular”, and encouraged audiences to experience the powerful global stories showcased at this year’s festival. Winners will be announced at the Iris Awards on 12 October 2024, with judging by a jury from the University of South Wales.
For more information, visit www.irisprize.org.
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