The NewFest Program Proves Queer Film Isn't Giving Up
Most of the defining films in the queer canon were made despite the mainstream culture, not because of it.
According to GLAAD’s 2025 Studio Responsibility Index, queer representation in film and television is at a three-year low. After years of improvement that led to new levels of mainstream inclusion, the studios have pulled back on queer storytelling amid conservative backlash. But our cinema has never been determined by those in power. Most of the defining films in the queer canon were made despite the mainstream culture, not because of it.
“This year we received a record high number of over 1,200 submissions,” director of programming Nick McCarthy said. “In particular, it’s been exciting to see a continued increase in unapologetic, genre-expansive narratives from often underrepresented voices in the LGBTQ+ community.”
Programmer Jorge Molina echoed this sentiment. “A trend I have been noticing over the last few years overall is that queer filmmakers have stopped waiting for the system to let them do the films they want, and they’ve taken it upon themselves to tell their stories in the way they want to,” he said. “We are no longer tied to the types of stories we’ve been told we are supposed to be telling, and have carved our own space.”
This has proven especially true for trans filmmakers. “Trans+ filmmakers more and more realize that the only people who will more accurately speak about our experiences is ourselves and no one else,” programmer Anton Astudillo said. “This is why you’ll see a tendency to create stories that are deeply personal, rooted in self-determination with characters that are self sufficient and self loving.” He also added that a lot of trans filmmakers are turning toward both genre and experimental approaches as a way to express themselves in this moment in time.
While artists continue to find ways to create, a lot of the work has gained a self-reflexive portrayal of that creation. “Many films celebrate the vital role the artist plays in culture – and, more importantly, our lives,” Nick said. “We see this throughout the program, from musicians to writers to filmmakers to performers to painters and more, including but not limited to COME SEE ME IN THE GOOD LIGHT, QUEER AS PUNK, JASON AND SHIRLEY REVISITED, ROCK OUT, IN TRANSIT, A DEEPER LOVE: THE MISS PEPPERMINT STORY, and our Opening Night Film BLUE MOON.”
This celebration of queer artists is present in the program and it’s present in the culture surrounding NewFest. “I really love how queer film festivals focus so much in community, this is not the case for so many festivals that promote competition among peers.” Anton said. “I believe NewFest is a rare gem in New York, where you not only get to see a lot of work by local filmmakers side by side some very strong international films, but you also get to hang out and meet the folks behind these films.”
Speaking of international films, it’s important for American audiences to remember that even when Hollywood turns its back on us, there’s an entire world of queer cinema still being made. “As an international film festival, we’re delighted to feature work from 29 countries – with each story being culturally-specific while providing universal understanding.” Nick said. “It’s vital we stand up for our global LGBTQ+ siblings, and share works that amplify star-crossed lovers (WE ARE FAHEEM & KARUN), asylum seekers finding love (DREAMERS), and even an intergalactic lesbian space princess battling self-confidence and evil Maliens (LESBIAN SPACE PRINCESS).”
“Queer film is not one single genre.” Jorge added. “Our stories exist in every single type of movie, and this program is the perfect embodiment of that.” And while it’s essential to look toward independent and international work in the face of Hollywood backlash, it’s also helpful to look to Hollywood history. “We are showcasing the three films at the center of one of the most iconic Oscar races in history, when Judy Holliday won over the career-defining performances of Bette Davis and Gloria Swanson,” Jorge shared. Even in 1950, amid the restrictive production code, queer sensibilities and even queer characters found a way onto the biggest screens.
There are challenges for queer artists and queer audiences at this moment in time. But the NewFest program shows there’s also a lot to celebrate. With resilience, creativity, and community, queer cinema continues to thrive.
Can’t decide what to watch? Check out these recommendations from our programming team.
“This shorts program is explosive, brilliant and extremely original. Expect to be pleasantly surprise by the immense talent of the dolls and the wide range of perspectives that they bring to the screen.”
“The iconic New York City based director comes back with a revisited version of his 2015 film. Winter’s take on the making of the 1967 documentary PORTRAIT OF JASON by Shirley Clarke is genius.”
“Rarely has the phrase ‘a life well lived’ been captured with such tenderness, such clarity of purpose. Prepare to be captivated, undone, and deeply moved. This is storytelling at its most human.”
“In its simple premise and long unfolding scenes, it quietly hums along. Yet by the end the audacity of the storytelling becomes clear. This film announces an astute, perceptive writer and a major filmmaking voice in Jun Li.”
“In this quietly powerful drama, Jennifer Ehle and Alex Sarrigeorgiou deliver deeply nuanced performances, capturing the emotional undercurrents between two adrift women. Their subtle and sensitive portrayals illuminate how creating art together can unlock buried desires and unspoken truths with breathtaking intimacy.”
“Tightly structured yet entirely improvised, SAME, AGAIN showcases the rare synergy of its ensemble cast and filmmakers. Their deep commitment to each others’ process shines through, making it a masterclass in collaborative storytelling and spontaneous, grounded performance.”
“Director Drew Denny breaks down the myth of gender and sexuality in the natural world and enlists the support of many queer and trans biologists, and narrator Elliot Page, to powerfully speak to the clear existence of LGBTQ+ identities within the natural world and beyond.”
“This year’s teen shorts line-up is specifically affirming and intergenerational, including films about a trans high school athlete, chosen or biological family dynamics, and even a magical singing drag fox voiced by Sir Ian McKellan. The program is available to the public to stream virtually, and the in-person screening at the festival is dedicated to an audience of LGBTQ+ students and staff, youth organizations, and school GSAs to provide a safe space where they can gather and see themselves reflected onscreen together.”
THE 1950 BEST ACTRESS TRIFECTA
“The 1950 Best Actress Trifecta is a must for any Old Hollywood aficionado.”
“IN YOUR FACE! features a collection of shorts that are loud, bold, and unapologetic. Bright neon colors, explorations of genre and style, stomach-turning stories, characters that are too much and proud of it.”
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