The 33rd annual Inside Out Toronto 2SLGBTQ+ Film Festival returns this year; showcasing 107 films from 30 countries, including 33 feature films, and 7 world premieres.
I have taken a look at this year’s lineup and sharing with you my personal picks. Be sure to add these films to your festival list!
This Place
Directed by V.T. Nayani
Kawenniióhstha (K. Devery Jacobs) leaves her community of Kahnawà:ke near Montreal to attend university in Toronto and to find her Iranian father, who she has never met. Malai (Priya Guns) is a Tamil woman dealing with her father’s terminal illness and trying to decide what her future should look like. Kawenniióhstha and Malai meet by chance. Almost instantly, they form an intense attraction and bond as they navigate issues of identity and family.
I saw this film when it screened at TIFF last year and has stayed with me since. There is a level of intimacy between the young women, their stories and their families that comes throughout the film.
This Place is beautifully co-written, directed by Nayani. Her words are brought to life by excellent casting and a talented group of artists part of the production team, including composer Kalaisan Klaichelvan. I spoke with Klaichelvan last year, and share our interview here.
Leilani’s Fortune [The Reincarnation of Ayo Leilani] (Canada/Documentary)
Directed by Loveleen Kaur
This is an intimate journey with queer, immigrant, Ethiopian-Eritrean artist Witch Prophet, as she navigates newfound momentum in the music industry. After years of making music and supporting local artists, she is now receiving critical acclaim and nominations.
In the film, we get to know more about how her journey into becoming Witch Prophet. We learn about Leilani’s personal life as well, and how seizures have been affecting her ability to perform. We also hear about the hustle of being an artist in Canada. Applying for grants, writing releases for media to notice them, and so on. In spite of any setbacks, Leilani continues to push through making music.
I was introduced to Leilani/Witch Prophet’s music years ago thanks to a DJ friend of mine; been a fan ever since. I am glad Witch Prophet is finally getting the validation and support she needs to continue creating her music.
Hummingbirds (USA/ Documentary)
Directed by Silvia Del Carmen Castaños and Estafania “Beba” Contreras
Filmmakers and activists Silvia Del Carmen Castaños and Estefanía “Beba” Contreras are coming of age in Laredo, Texas. Stuck in an immigration process with the threat of deportation for their families, they strongly refuse to be scared into submission and spend their days planning protest actions while expressing themselves with music, poetry, and art, creating magic in everyday moments.
Another intimate film that sheds light on young queers living in the USA, sometimes in difficult situations, but always so resilient and full of joie de vivre. Silvia and Estefanía met during a tough time in their young lives but have now become each other’s best friend. They share a strong bond which also propels them into wanting to make a difference for others around them.
The film is a look at the lives of these young people, but also leaves us with plenty to think about especially about what the future. I really appreciate Silvia and Estefanía’s point of view, which brings home what it is like for for young, queer people living in the USA today.
Short Program: Stories We Tell (Selected Shorts)
Kalã [Skill] (Canada)
Directed by Arshad Khan
A South Asian mother finds herself immersed in a profound state of mourning after discovering
that her beloved son identifies as gay. She reminisces about her life and wonders how she can still have a close relationship with her son.
Mother and son play out their differences through their respective art. She finally accepts him for who he is and their relationship can flourish.. with pride. A poingnant and also very creative look at a very complex relationship.
Magic In Plain Site (Canada)
Directed by Paige Gratland
A portrait of self-taught seamstress Brenna Bezanson, a change-maker whose creations of custom women’s clothing challenge capitalist and patriarchal ideals.
Each garment has a story related to specific times in her life; for example, when she was going for surgery. Her first dress was patterned after a Diane Von Fustenberg wrap dress. There’s also a coat she made during a difficult time in her life, when she wanted to feel like being protected. She weaves little acts of magic into her works.
Tabanca (Canada)
Directed by Lauren Marsden
Marlinn (Nneka Croal) is a genderqueer Trinidadian woman suffering through a wet and boring Vancouver winter that makes them miss the energy of Carnival season back home.
After work, they head to a local karaoke bar. Swaying to the music, they imagine themselves at Carnival in Trinidad… realizing the power of masquerade is within them. I really liked this scene; music can be so freeing. Great short film.
For more information on Inside Out film listings and schedule, please visit insideout.ca. The festival will take place both in-person and virtually from May 25th to June 4th in Toronto, Canada.
