Dedicated to nurturing, showcasing and protecting LGBT media, the lineup was announced for the Outfest Fusion LGBT People of Color Film Festival, the only multicultural LGBT film festival of its kind. Now in its 13th year, it will be held March 4-16 at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, as well as various locations throughout Los Angeles.
The fest kicks off on Friday, March 4, with the US Premiere and 20th Anniversary screening of the digital restoration of The Watermelon Woman, courtesy of the Outfest UCLA Legacy Project and 13th Gen. The following day, that film’s director and screenwriter Cheryl Dunye will host a panel discussion on the influence her classic film has had on the next generation of filmmakers.
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A Stellar Lineup of Films
The festival’s lineup features an impressive array of films that span various genres and styles, all centered on the experiences of LGBTQ+ people of color. From powerful documentaries to heartwarming narratives, Outfest Fusion offers something for every movie enthusiast.
- Feature Films: This year’s selection includes groundbreaking feature films that challenge societal norms and explore complex themes. Highlights include [Film Title], directed by [Director Name], and [Film Title], a poignant story about [brief description].
- Short Films: The short film program is packed with innovative and thought-provoking pieces. These films, although brief, leave a lasting impact by capturing unique and compelling stories.
Outfest Fusion will include three days of short and feature film screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and networking events that celebrate the diversity of the LGBT community, followed by 10 filmmaking workshops.
Emmy nominee and Golden Globe–winning director, producer and writer Nisha Ganatra (Transparent, Chutney Popcorn) will receive the 2016 Fusion Achievement Award, which will be presented at the Fusion Gala on Saturday, March 5.
Engaging Panels and Workshops
Beyond film screenings, Outfest Fusion offers a range of panels and workshops designed to educate, inspire, and foster connections within the community. These events provide valuable opportunities for attendees to learn from industry professionals and engage in meaningful discussions.
- Industry Panels: Experts from various sectors of the entertainment industry will share insights on topics such as diversity in filmmaking, the future of LGBTQ+ media, and more.
- Creative Workshops: Aspiring filmmakers and artists can participate in workshops that cover everything from scriptwriting to directing, offering hands-on experience and guidance.
The weekend of screenings includes the recent GLAAD Media Award–nominated BET documentary, Holler If You Hear Me: Black and Gay in the Church, which will be followed by an enlightening post-screening discussion about the intersections of gender identity, sexual orientation and religion; Made in Bangkok, an exhilarating documentary by Flavio Florencio that follows Morganna who, in her quest for womanhood, enters a prestigious transgender pageant in Thailand to vie for the crown of “Ms. International Queen;” and Jake Witzenfeld’s Oriented, a film that explores the Israel-Palestine conflict through an intimate, distinctly queer lens.
Special Events and Networking Opportunities
Outfest Fusion is not just a film festival; it’s a community celebration. Attendees can look forward to a variety of special events and networking opportunities that enhance the festival experience.
- Opening Night Gala: The festival kicks off with a glamorous opening night gala, featuring red carpet arrivals, special performances, and the premiere of a highly anticipated film.
- Networking Mixers: These events provide a casual setting for attendees to connect with filmmakers, actors, and other industry professionals.
Following the Outfest Fusion screenings, there will be a series of 10 filmmaking workshops taking place at various locations around Los Angeles, led by queer filmmakers of color and covering topics that include screenwriting, guerilla feature filmmaking, web series production, smartphone cinematography, social media marketing, editing and directing. The Instructors include award-winning filmmakers Angela Robinson, Quentin Lee, Doug Spearman, Deondray Gossfield and Quincy LeNear Gossfield.
Tickets Now Available
Tickets for Outfest Fusion are now on sale, and the festival encourages everyone to secure their spots early. With the growing popularity of the festival, tickets are expected to sell out quickly.
- How to Purchase: Tickets can be purchased online through the official Outfest Fusion website. Various ticket packages are available to suit different preferences and budgets.
- Accessibility: Outfest Fusion is committed to making the festival accessible to all. Information on accessible venues and services is available on the website.
Tickets for the Gala and festival screenings are now available to purchase, with discount prices for Outfest members. For those age 21 and under, Outfest Fusion is also offering a Free Youth Membership and free tickets. To learn more and buy your tickets, visit the “Tickets” section of their website.
Conclusion
Outfest Fusion continues to be a beacon of diversity and inclusion in the film industry, showcasing the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ stories from people of color. With its dynamic lineup, inspiring honorees, and engaging events, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity and community. Don’t miss out on this incredible event—grab your tickets now and join the celebration!
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