Whether you're after heartwarming romance, gripping drama, or bold storytelling, there’s something for everyone at this years Queer Screen’s 32nd Mardi Gras Film Festival.
Film lover and FUSE entertainment editor David Blanco has handpicked his must-see highlights. Don’t miss these standout festival gems!
Duino
Duino directed by Juan Pablo di Pace, offers a poignant and beautifully reflective exploration of love and memory. Set along the stunning Adriatic coast, the film follows Matias as he reconnects with his first love, Alexander, through an intensely personal film project. Santiago Madrussan and Oscar Morgan deliver lead performances that are both moving and deeply sincere, capturing the essence of unrequited longing and unresolved emotions. Featuring seamless narrative transitions between past and present and breathtaking visuals, Dunio is a powerful tale of love, identity, and healing. Winner of the 2024 New York LGBT Film Festival's Audience Award, it promises to leave a lasting impression on festival audiences.
Somewhere in Love
Somewhere in Love is a heartfelt exploration of love, identity, and resilience set against the vibrant backdrop of suburban Paris. Directed by Morgan Simon, the film follows Nicole, a single mother, and her son Serge as they navigate financial struggles and emotional rifts during the holiday season. The story takes an unexpected turn when Nicole finds herself drawn to Nora, a charismatic bar owner, adding layers of complexity and warmth to the narrative. With stellar performances by French cinema legend, Valeria Bruni Tedeschi and Lubna Azabal, this poignant drama beautifully captures the transformative power of love in its many forms.
Crossing
Crossing is a critically acclaimed and visually stunning story of self-discovery and acceptance. Directed by Levan Akin, it follows Lia, a retired Georgian teacher, as she travels to Istanbul to find her estranged transgender niece, Tekla. Along the way, she forms a surprising bond with Achi, a lively young man, and meets Evrim, a strong, compassionate trans lawyer. The film’s breathtaking cinematography captures the vibrant, gritty energy of Istanbul, while its story strikes a perfect balance between hope and heartbreak.
Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story
What good is sitting alone in your room when you could be watching Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story! This dazzling documentary is an electrifying tribute to the legendary gay icon Liza Minnelli, capturing her determined spirit and extraordinary showbiz career. Bruce David Klein’s film explores Minnelli's life, from her iconic performances to her personal struggles, including her emergence from the shadow of her mother, Judy Garland. Featuring illuminating interviews with her close friends and collaborators, the film paints a vivid portrait of a woman who turned vulnerability into strength and artistry. With archival footage and candid moments, this documentary is a must-watch celebration of the resilience, talent, and the enduring magic of the one and only Liza with a Z!
Queer Screen’s Mardi Gras Film Festival
April 3-5 2025
National Film and Sound Archive
