In celebration of Reykjavík Pride, we're highlighting a selection of films that explore LGBTQ+ themes or are directed by LGBTQ+ filmmakers. The festival takes place at Háskólabíó from September 24 to October 4.
Discover a selection from RIFF’s queer film programme here.
Club Kid by Jordan Firstman
A hard-partying New York City club promoter sees his whirlwind lifestyle upended by the arrival of the 10-year-old son he never knew he had. The film premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival. It also marks the feature-film debut of comedian Jordan Firstman, who rose to prominence for his work on HBO’s I Love LA, starring Rachel Sennott. Firstman also takes on the lead role in the film.
The Ornithologist by João Pedro Rodrigues, honorary guest
Fernando, a solitary ornithologist, is looking for endangered black storks along a remote river in northern Portugal, when he is swept away by the rapids. Rescued by a couple of Chinese pilgrim girls on their way to Santiago de Compostela, he plunges into a dark, eerie forest, trying to get back on track. But as he encounters unexpected and uncanny obstacles and people who put him to the test, Fernando is driven to extreme, transformative actions. Gradually he becomes a different man: inspired, multifaceted, and finally enlightened.
Will-o’-the-Wisp by João Pedro Rodrigues, honorary guest
On his deathbed, his royal highness Alfredo, king without a crown, is taken back to distant youth memories and the time he dreamt of becoming a fireman. The encounter with instructor Afonso from the fire brigade opens a new chapter in the life of the two young men immersed in love and desire, and the will to change the status quo.
Two Times João Liberada by Paula Tomás Marques
João stars in a biopic about Liberada, a gender-nonconforming figure persecuted by the Inquisition. After the director is mysteriously paralyzed, João faces haunting dreams and struggles to honor Liberada’s story.
As Fado Bicha by Justine Lemahieu
In Portugal, the songs of Lila and João, the two artists of the band Fado Bicha, give body and voice to LGBTQI+ stories and struggles. In the intimacy of the dressing rooms, words and glances cross paths, questioning our relationship with appearances, gender norms, language and sexuality.
The Dashed Lines by Anxos Fazáns
Bea is a 50-year-old woman going through a divorce, and Denís is a 28-year-old trans man struggling with job insecurity. An unexpected incident brings them together, and this encounter will change their lives forever.
HEX by Maja Holand
The film follows three young women who form the band Witch Club Satan without knowing how to play a single instrument. They vow to spend the next three years becoming witches and musicians, using metal music to unleash raw female power.
