LGBTQ History Month: Iris Prize Special presentation

The Best of Iris and Trans Stories
Two special programmes from our friends at Iris Prize as we mark LGBTQ History Month. The Best of Iris is a chance to see the winning film, Baba, as well as the runners up for both the international and British prize, and the winners of the Iris Youth Jury and Trans Stories features the winner of the Co-Op Audience Award. 

Please note, there'll be a short break between each programme.

Programme schedule:

The Best of Iris
Various | 2021 | 48’ | 12A 

Baba
UK | 2021 | 18’ | 12A | Sam Arbor, Adam Ali
Adam Ali
Living in the tunnels beneath Tripoli a queer Libyan teenager, Britannia, dreams of escape to a better life, but an unexpected discovery forces him to question whether to stay or flee from his homeland and his friends. 

“A skillfully constructed film that speaks to oppression, acceptance and the strength of community. The direction is impressive, coherent and offers moments of self-reflection whilst transmitting courageousness and pride in one's identity. The issues explored are systemic issues that affect countless others, but the story is portrayed in a hopeful way which encourages a call to action to continue the fight for equality”. Iris Jury

Sansara: We Will Become Better
Russia | 2021 | 6’ | PG | Andzej Gavriss
Maksim Avdeev, Nikita Orlov
Russian indie band Sansara made this music video as a tribute to Russia’s LGBTQIA+ community, 12 months after the country passed legislation defining marriage solely as the union of man and woman. It’s a wonderful fusion of music and movement and a stirring tale of thwarted love, and it’s garnered over 1million views on YouTube since being submitted for the Iris Prize!

“With uncompromising, magical aesthetics and an intricate structure, this creative approach to filmmaking acts as a celebration for equality. This film reminds us about the need to connect with others despite distance and circumstances.” Iris Jury

Cwch Deilen
Wales | 2020 | 8’ | U | Efa Blosse-Mason
Sara Gregory, Catrin Stewart
An animated love story about a leaf that becomes a boat, and fears come out of the murky waters as sea monsters and storms. Will the Leaf Boat survive the tumultuous waves?

“A magical, imaginative and touching animation with gorgeously drawn imagery.” Iris Jury

S.A.M.
UK | 2021 | 16’ | PG | Lloyd Eyre-Morgan, Neil David
George Webster, Sam Retford
Two young men form a connection on the swings of their local park. 

BREAK 5’

Trans Stories
Various | 2021 | 65’ | 15

God’s Daughter Dance
South Korea | 2020 | 24’ | 12A | Sungbin Byun 
Choi Haejun, Wookyum Kim, Hojun Lim
A transgender female dancer, Shin-mi, gets a call from the Military Manpower Administration, to attend the Military Service Examination. Shin-mi, with everything in readiness, takes her steps to get ready for a fight.

“An intense and moving piece that highlights an important issue with regards to Gender equality. The main character portrays unrivalled bravery in the face of adversity, coupled with a compelling storyline and an alluring colour pallet.” Iris Jury

Pop 
UK | 2021 | 21’ | 15 | Margo Roe
Stephen Graham, Jake Raynor
Jack is a young boy exploring his own identity when he befriends a recently-released ex-convict, Pop. The pair bond, but Pop’s past and his inability to control his emotions threaten to put Jack in danger.

“Beautifully made with complex performances in a world familiar from some of the finest British independent cinema of the last few decades, but taking it to unique places. The ending will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.” Iris Jury

Birthday Boy
UK | 2021 | 20’ | 15 | Leo LeBeau
Selma Alkaff, Fuller Ayumi
Transgender boy Alex lives a double life in online games, where he feels he can express his true identity but is bullied at a private all-girls school. He excitedly plans a digital birthday party, however on the special day the bullying takes a violent turn.