Kingston’s own queer film festival returns Jan. 26.
Kingston’s own Reelout Queer Film Festival returns Jan. 26–Feb. 5 for its 24th year. Since 1999, Reelout has been showcasing queer media arts and encouraging discussions about diversity. This year’s line-up offers a lineup of 76 films, from shorts and feature-length narratives to documentaries. The 2023 festival will screen films from 15 different countries. with a spotlight on both trans cinema and on films from the Islamic Republic of Iran. All cinema events will take place at The Screening Room, 120 Princess St.
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Opening event
The festival kicks off on Jan. 26 with an opening shindig from 6 to 8 pm at The Broom Factory (305 Rideau St.). Enjoy live music from The Gertrudes, plus drag and burlesque performances. Food and drink options will be provided by Pan Chancho and Spearhead Brewing Company. This is an all-ages event but is not intended for children.
Learn more about opening night activities.
Featured Opening gala film
The festival opens Jan. 27 at 9 pm with Rosie. This Canadian comedy-drama tells the story (in both English and French) of Rosie, an orphaned, Indigenous girl who is forced to live with her reluctant, street-smart Aunty Fred. Rosie is a tale of identity, family, love, and misfits. This evening also features a live musical performance by Krista Muir, several of whose songs are on the Rosie soundtrack. Learn more about the event and watch the trailer from Rosie on Reelout’s site.
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Shorts programs
Grab some popcorn and enjoy the variety of short films presented during Reelout. The Gender Bender shorts program highlights gender diversity. The Spotlight on Iran shorts program celebrates work by Iranian artists. The Mystique Et Lubrique French shorts showcase queer French-language films.
See the full list of shorts programs on the Reelout website.
Featured closing film
Golden Delicious, directed by Jason Karman, is a Canadian film about a high school senior who begins to struggle with his own desires when an openly gay teen with a love for basketball moves in across the street. Golden Delicious airs on Feb. 4 (7 – 9:30 pm). Jason Karman will be in attendance for a post-screening Q&A.
Learn more about Golden Delicious on the Reelout website.
Individual tickets (for screenings and the opening night shindig) cost $15 plus tax; tickets are $12 plus tax for students and seniors. Buy a transtastic pass for $50 plus fees to see all five major trans/NB/gender fluid programs at the festival. You can also get an all-access pass for $100 plus service fees to gain entry to all screenings. Buy tickets online. Stay updated on the festival through the Reelout Instagram account.
