In celebration of its tenth anniversary, this version of ‘Five Films for Freedom’ (March 13 to 24) showcases LGBTQIA+ narratives that resonate with resilience and authenticity.
From the historic defiance captured in Compton’s 22 in San Francisco to the poignant exploration of affection and understanding in Halfway, this 12 months’s lineup contains ‘Little One’, ‘Cursive’, and ‘The First Kiss’, every delving into themes of household, id, and the common quest for acceptance.
The motion pictures supply views on the LGBTQIA+ expertise, inspiring conversations and fostering empathy worldwide.
The 5 quick movies — ‘Cursive’, ‘Little One’, ‘The First Kiss’, ‘Compton’s 22’ and ‘Halfway’ — will stream on JioTV cellular app and on related TVs by JioTV+.
They will probably be screened in Delhi, Kolkata, Gangtok, Agartala, Shantiniketan, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Goa.
The companions embody the British High Commission, QueerFrames Screenwriting Lab, Habitat International Film Festival, Sandbox Collective, Harkat Studios, Eagaro Photo Festival, The We4We Project, Arthshila, Rainbow Hills Welfare Association, and The Storiculture Company.
Alison Barrett MBE, Director India, British Council mentioned: “We are delighted to be as soon as once more partnering with BFI Flare, JioTV and JioTV+ and The Queer Muslim Project for this celebration of inclusivity and cultural trade. It is a privilege to showcase the distinctive work of immensely proficient filmmakers to audiences throughout India.
“Throughout the ten-year journey of ‘Five Films For Freedom’, we have been able to reach over 23 million viewers globally. We take pride in our ongoing commitment to supporting this initiative, which not only sheds light on new narratives but also fosters new connections and understanding.”
Rafiul Alom Rahman, Director of The Queer Muslim Project, mentioned: “We are happy to be collaborating with the British Council and with multiple partners across India to create a space that celebrates love and freedom. The #FiveFilmsForFreedom programme has been a catalyst in spotlighting diverse LGBTQIA+ talent and stories from around the world and fostering conversations around inclusion. This year’s curation of FFFF includes powerful short films, community mixers, and discussions with industry professionals.”
Kumar Chheda, Director of Halfway, mentioned, “Halfway is about the things you do, the extra miles you go to make love work. This is why the #FiveFilmsForFreedom programme is the most appropriate place for the world to see the film. For an emerging filmmaker from India, there could have been no greater joy than to see my film reach audiences around the world. I am thrilled that Halfway is the selection from India as the programme celebrates its 10th year.”
