There are 60 short films to choose from at this year’s celebration of LGBTQIA+ cinema
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY LESBIAN SPACE PRINCESS
The world’s largest LGBTQIA+ short film prize has just launched its full programme today, a week before the public Box Office opens. There are 60 short films, 13 feature films, 10 talks and more on offer taking place in Cardiff between 13– 19 October.
Filmmakers from around the world come together to celebrate LGBTQIA+ stories, and one talented filmmaker will walk away with the £40,000 Iris Prize. On the festival’s opening night, director of Iris Prize-winning feature Tarneit will return for the global premiere of the new film Never, Never, Never.
Alumni like Dima Hamdan, Clari Ribeiro and Marin Håskjold will be in attendance to showcase their new films. If you’re looking for the lowdown on everything industry-related, you can go to one of the public talks to hear from stars like Bridgerton’s Adjoa Andoh. Among the feature films on offer, DIVA readers might be drawn to the likes of Lesbian Space Princess or Dreamers.
Berwyn Rowlands, Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival Director, said: “We have always been committed to introducing our audience to as many film-makers as we can afford and this year is no exception.”
Tickets will be available to buy online on 18 September or in person from the festival hub in Stadium Plaza throughout the festival from 13 October.
Iris Prize 2025 will take place from Monday 13 October – Sunday 19 October 2025. Iris Online will be available across the UK from 14 October to 7 November 2025.
Full details about Iris can be found here: www.irisprize.org
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