And the winner is…

Winner:

Please Mistress

A frank representation of transfem experience, this is a film that goes beyond conventional narratives for trans people in film. A film full of creative risks, feeling authentic, relevant and personal whilst addressing the economic and social realities of what it takes for trans women to survive in a hostile world. Please Mistress makes the watcher pay attention to the ways online anonymity emboldens people to interact with the Queer community can be used by Queer people for better and for worse, and the bedroom setting exposes how society can encroach onto the sanctity of one’s internal peace and resting space. 

Special commendations:

Over the Rainbow 

A heartfelt and nostalgic look at a classic film that generations ago was adopted into Queerculture. Vividly set in Caerphilly, Over the Rainbow’s Welsh setting is fully integrated into the film. The metaphorical depiction of masking, self-closeting and assimilation feel authentic to the Queerexperience. With an atmospheric soundscape, excellent production and compelling characters made this a very enjoyable film. 

Island of Strangers 

A heartwarming depiction of Wales as an example of a sanctuary nation, dismantling typical assumptions about older adults’ attitudes towards diversity and multiculturalism. Island of Strangers is a well-realised documentary with a mesmerising cast of characters who come together to tackle the loneliness that comes with age, showing that the older generation are willing to accept and celebrate difference.