Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe to open, Chasing Chasing Amy to close Los Angeles fest.
For the first time features by trans filmmakers will bookend Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Film Festival (July 13-23), with opener Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe and closing selection Chasing Chasing Amy.
Both Aitch Alberto and Sav Rodgers are alumni of Outfest’s artist development programmes. Alberto took part in the Outfest Screenwriting Lab in 2007 and has returned to mentor young filmmakers in Outfest’s programmes.
Rodgers is an alum of both OutSet – Outfest’s filmmaking lab and...
For the first time features by trans filmmakers will bookend Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Film Festival (July 13-23), with opener Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe and closing selection Chasing Chasing Amy.
Both Aitch Alberto and Sav Rodgers are alumni of Outfest’s artist development programmes. Alberto took part in the Outfest Screenwriting Lab in 2007 and has returned to mentor young filmmakers in Outfest’s programmes.
Rodgers is an alum of both OutSet – Outfest’s filmmaking lab and...
- 6/6/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Outfest has lined up its opening and closing night films.
The Los Angeles LGBTQ film festival — scheduled for July 13-23 and presented by Warner Bros. Discovery and Genesis Motor America — will open with Aitch Alberto’s Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe at the Orpheum Theatre and close with Sav Rodgers’ Chasing Chasing Amy at the Montalbán Theatre.
The selections mark the first time in the fest’s history that both the opening and closing night films come from trans filmmakers. Furthermore, both Alberto and Rodgers hail from Outfest’s artist development programs. Alberto participated in the Outfest screenwriting lab in 2007 and has since served as a mentor to young filmmakers in Outfest programs, while Rodgers participated in Outfest’s OutSet filmmaking lab and mentorship program as well as the screenwriting lab in 2021.
Based on Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s young adult novel, Aristotle and Dante Discover the...
The Los Angeles LGBTQ film festival — scheduled for July 13-23 and presented by Warner Bros. Discovery and Genesis Motor America — will open with Aitch Alberto’s Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe at the Orpheum Theatre and close with Sav Rodgers’ Chasing Chasing Amy at the Montalbán Theatre.
The selections mark the first time in the fest’s history that both the opening and closing night films come from trans filmmakers. Furthermore, both Alberto and Rodgers hail from Outfest’s artist development programs. Alberto participated in the Outfest screenwriting lab in 2007 and has since served as a mentor to young filmmakers in Outfest programs, while Rodgers participated in Outfest’s OutSet filmmaking lab and mentorship program as well as the screenwriting lab in 2021.
Based on Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s young adult novel, Aristotle and Dante Discover the...
- 6/6/2023
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The 41st annual Outfest, Los Angeles’ premier LGBTQ+ film festival, is making history with its 2023 lineup.
The festival (July 13-23) will for the first time open and close with films created by trans artists: “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe” (directed by Aitch Alberto) will kick off the festivities on July 13, with the 11-day event closing with “Chasing Chasing Amy” (directed by Sav Rodgers). The Opening Night Gala will screen at the Orpheum Theatre, with the Closing Night Gala screening at The Montalbán Theatre. More films in the lineup will be announced soon.
These events also represent a homecoming for both Alberto and Rodgers, both of whom are alumni of Outfest’s Artist Development programs.
“Aristotle and Dante,” based on Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s beloved young adult novel, centers on the friendship between two teenage Mexican-American boys in 1987 El Paso. Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales star along with Eugenio Derbez,...
The festival (July 13-23) will for the first time open and close with films created by trans artists: “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe” (directed by Aitch Alberto) will kick off the festivities on July 13, with the 11-day event closing with “Chasing Chasing Amy” (directed by Sav Rodgers). The Opening Night Gala will screen at the Orpheum Theatre, with the Closing Night Gala screening at The Montalbán Theatre. More films in the lineup will be announced soon.
These events also represent a homecoming for both Alberto and Rodgers, both of whom are alumni of Outfest’s Artist Development programs.
“Aristotle and Dante,” based on Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s beloved young adult novel, centers on the friendship between two teenage Mexican-American boys in 1987 El Paso. Max Pelayo and Reese Gonzales star along with Eugenio Derbez,...
- 6/6/2023
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
Today, Outfest announced the Opening and Closing Night gala film selections for the 41st edition of the Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Film Festival, taking place from July 13 – 23 in Los Angeles, presented by Warner Bros. Discovery and Genesis Motor America. The festival will open with Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, directed by Aitch Alberto, and the 11-day event will close with Chasing Chasing Amy, directed by Sav Rodgers. The Opening Night Gala will screen at the Orpheum Theatre, with the Closing Night Gala screening at The Montalbán Theatre.
This marks the first time in Outfest’s history that both Opening and Closing night will feature films made by trans artists, underlining the deep roster of trans, non-binary, and intersex talent working in the entertainment industry as well as the diversity of trans storytelling at this moment in history. These events also represent a homecoming for both Alberto and Rodgers,...
This marks the first time in Outfest’s history that both Opening and Closing night will feature films made by trans artists, underlining the deep roster of trans, non-binary, and intersex talent working in the entertainment industry as well as the diversity of trans storytelling at this moment in history. These events also represent a homecoming for both Alberto and Rodgers,...
- 6/6/2023
- by Valerie Complex
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Roadside Attractions has acquired North American rights to Peeter Rebane’s theatrical feature directorial debut, Firebird, with plans to release it exclusively in theaters on April 29.
Based on a true story that unfolded during the Cold War, Firebird is a love story set against the backdrop of a Soviet Air Force base in Estonia during late 1970s Communist rule. Sergey (Tom Prior), a soulful, young soldier who dreams of becoming an actor in Moscow, is counting the days until his military service ends. His life turns upside down when he locks eyes with Roman (Oleg Zagorodnii), an enigmatic ace fighter pilot newly assigned to his base.
Driven by their undeniable attraction, Sergey and Roman navigate the precarious line between love and friendship at a time when Soviet men in uniform caught having a sexual affair were met with the severest punishment. As their friendship grows into love, the men...
Based on a true story that unfolded during the Cold War, Firebird is a love story set against the backdrop of a Soviet Air Force base in Estonia during late 1970s Communist rule. Sergey (Tom Prior), a soulful, young soldier who dreams of becoming an actor in Moscow, is counting the days until his military service ends. His life turns upside down when he locks eyes with Roman (Oleg Zagorodnii), an enigmatic ace fighter pilot newly assigned to his base.
Driven by their undeniable attraction, Sergey and Roman navigate the precarious line between love and friendship at a time when Soviet men in uniform caught having a sexual affair were met with the severest punishment. As their friendship grows into love, the men...
- 2/22/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
In today’s film news roundup, Sarah May Sommers is starring in “American Cherry,” Jason Alexander has signed on to a film, Outfest has a new leader and BAFTA has awarded student prizes.
Castings
Jason Alexander has joined the cast of “Faith Based,” a comedy from director Vincent Masciale and writer Luke Barnett.
The satire of the Christian film industry follows two friends, played by “Funny or Die” regulars Barnett and Tanner Thomason, who come to the realization that all “faith based” films are extremely profitable and set out on a mission to make one of their own.
Alexander will play the eccentric head of a weight loss tea pyramid. The previously announced ensemble includes Lance Reddick, Danielle Nicolet, Carly Craig, Danny Woodburn, and Christoph Sanders.
The news was first reported by Deadline.
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Sarah May Sommers, who plays a Manson Family member in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” is...
Castings
Jason Alexander has joined the cast of “Faith Based,” a comedy from director Vincent Masciale and writer Luke Barnett.
The satire of the Christian film industry follows two friends, played by “Funny or Die” regulars Barnett and Tanner Thomason, who come to the realization that all “faith based” films are extremely profitable and set out on a mission to make one of their own.
Alexander will play the eccentric head of a weight loss tea pyramid. The previously announced ensemble includes Lance Reddick, Danielle Nicolet, Carly Craig, Danny Woodburn, and Christoph Sanders.
The news was first reported by Deadline.
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Sarah May Sommers, who plays a Manson Family member in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” is...
- 7/10/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Damien Navarro, a content development and digital media executive, has been selected as the new executive director of Outfest. The move comes after an eight-month search to replace Christopher Racster, who is exiting the role at the conclusion of the nonprofit organization’s flagship event, the Los Angeles-based Outfest Los Angeles Lgbtq Film Festival, which this year runs July 18-28.
Navarro, the founder of digital agency Earthbound Media Group and boutique consulting firm The Institute, most recently was president of Vimby, formerly MGM/Mark Burnett’s Content Studio, a brand content agency and entertainment studio.
He was selected by a search committee of current and former Outfest board members from more than 24 candidates, and when he takes over later this month will be tasked with overseeing the organization’s programs, staff, fundraising efforts, fiscal management and day-to-day operations.
“Over the last two years, our board, staff and stakeholders have...
Navarro, the founder of digital agency Earthbound Media Group and boutique consulting firm The Institute, most recently was president of Vimby, formerly MGM/Mark Burnett’s Content Studio, a brand content agency and entertainment studio.
He was selected by a search committee of current and former Outfest board members from more than 24 candidates, and when he takes over later this month will be tasked with overseeing the organization’s programs, staff, fundraising efforts, fiscal management and day-to-day operations.
“Over the last two years, our board, staff and stakeholders have...
- 7/10/2019
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Outfest has unveiled its programming lineup, including appearances by Kathy Griffin, Trixie Mattel, Angelica Ross and Robert Englund, for its 37th version on July 18-28.
Officially titled the 2019 Outfest Los Angeles Lgbtq Film Festival, the event opens at the Orpheum Theatre with the “Circus of Books” documentary and closes at The Theater at the Ace Hotel with family comedy “Before You Know It” from Hannah Pearl Utt (who also co-wrote and stars), featuring Judith Light alongside Alec Baldwin and Mandy Patinkin.
Films are from 33 countries and in 26 languages, and more than two-thirds of the titles are directed by women, people of color and trans filmmakers.
“As my tenure comes to an end I am most proud of Outfest’s increased visibility in Hollywood and our ever-growing stature within the industry,” said executive director Christopher Racster. “Outfest Los Angeles continues to shine a spotlight on those stories we must see and...
Officially titled the 2019 Outfest Los Angeles Lgbtq Film Festival, the event opens at the Orpheum Theatre with the “Circus of Books” documentary and closes at The Theater at the Ace Hotel with family comedy “Before You Know It” from Hannah Pearl Utt (who also co-wrote and stars), featuring Judith Light alongside Alec Baldwin and Mandy Patinkin.
Films are from 33 countries and in 26 languages, and more than two-thirds of the titles are directed by women, people of color and trans filmmakers.
“As my tenure comes to an end I am most proud of Outfest’s increased visibility in Hollywood and our ever-growing stature within the industry,” said executive director Christopher Racster. “Outfest Los Angeles continues to shine a spotlight on those stories we must see and...
- 6/12/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
After 37 years as the nation’s premier Lgbtq film festival, Outfest shows no signs of slowing down. The 2019 festival, scheduled to take place in Los Angeles from July 18-28, has just announced its full schedule. The lineup features a combination of festival favorites and rarely-seen foreign films, placing Lgbtq cinema in a truly global context.
The festival opens on July 18 with “Circus of Books,” the Tribeca hit about a daughter’s learning about her parents’ groundbreaking gay porn shop. It closes out with Sundance breakout “Before You Know It,” and will feature 28 world premieres during its run.
From features and documentaries to shorts and episodic content, this is truly an all-inclusive launching pad for Lgbtq filmmakers. The festival continues to push the boundaries of progress, with a majority of this year’s films directed by filmmakers from groups underrepresented in queer film.
“As my tenure comes to an end I...
The festival opens on July 18 with “Circus of Books,” the Tribeca hit about a daughter’s learning about her parents’ groundbreaking gay porn shop. It closes out with Sundance breakout “Before You Know It,” and will feature 28 world premieres during its run.
From features and documentaries to shorts and episodic content, this is truly an all-inclusive launching pad for Lgbtq filmmakers. The festival continues to push the boundaries of progress, with a majority of this year’s films directed by filmmakers from groups underrepresented in queer film.
“As my tenure comes to an end I...
- 6/12/2019
- by Christian Zilko
- Indiewire
Now in its 37th year, Outfest serves up an inclusive and intersectional slate of programming, two-thirds of which includes content directed by women, people of color and trans filmmakers. The fest, which will be held July 18-28 in Los Angeles, will open with Rachel Mason’s documentary Circus of Books which spotlights L.A.’s iconic brick-and-mortar gay erotica emporium and bookstore. Sundance favorite Before You Know It directed, co-written and starring Hannah Pearl Utt, as well as Judith Light, Alec Baldwin and Mandy Patinkin, will serve as the festival’s closing night film.
The fest will have films from 33 countries and in 26 languages and will include appearances from Kathy Griffin, RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars winner Trixie Mattel, Pose actress Angelica Ross, horror icon Robert Englund, musician and actor Sam Harris and others.
“As my tenure comes to an end I am most proud of Outfest’s increased...
The fest will have films from 33 countries and in 26 languages and will include appearances from Kathy Griffin, RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars winner Trixie Mattel, Pose actress Angelica Ross, horror icon Robert Englund, musician and actor Sam Harris and others.
“As my tenure comes to an end I am most proud of Outfest’s increased...
- 6/12/2019
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Roster includes third annual Trans Summit, Martha Stephens’ Sundance selection To The Stars, Rodrigo Bellott’s Tu Me Manques.
Berlinale Teddy winner Brief Story From The Green Planet is among the selection at 2019 Outfest Los Angeles Lgbtq Film Festival, set to run from July 18-28.
The festival will feature 28 world premieres across features, short films and special events, including Rodrigo Bellott’s Tu Me Manques inspired by his hit play from Bolivia, and Elegance Bratton’s documentary Pier Kids, which follows the queer and trans Poc youth who gather at New York City’s Christopher Street pier.
The roster includes Megan Rossman’s The Archivettes,...
Berlinale Teddy winner Brief Story From The Green Planet is among the selection at 2019 Outfest Los Angeles Lgbtq Film Festival, set to run from July 18-28.
The festival will feature 28 world premieres across features, short films and special events, including Rodrigo Bellott’s Tu Me Manques inspired by his hit play from Bolivia, and Elegance Bratton’s documentary Pier Kids, which follows the queer and trans Poc youth who gather at New York City’s Christopher Street pier.
The roster includes Megan Rossman’s The Archivettes,...
- 6/12/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The cast and creators of “Pose,” along with “Dear White People” writer-director Justin Simien and Sony Pictures Classic will be honored at Outfest’s Legacy Awards on Oct. 28. The event is a key fundraiser for the organization’s Outfest UCLA Legacy Project, dedicated to preserving Lgbtq movies.
Cast and Creators of ‘Pose’
Trailblazer Award
Outfest executive director Christopher Racster credits the cast and creators of the FX show about New York’s Lgbt ball scene in the 1980s with turning TV on its head. “To me, it’s revolutionary,” he says.
But co-creator Steven Canals recalls a time not long ago when he struggled to get “Pose” off the ground.
“I was in and out of executives’ offices where I was being told, ‘This show just doesn’t have legs. You’ll never find an audience,’” he says. “To be in a place where the show is now being honored is beyond.
Cast and Creators of ‘Pose’
Trailblazer Award
Outfest executive director Christopher Racster credits the cast and creators of the FX show about New York’s Lgbt ball scene in the 1980s with turning TV on its head. “To me, it’s revolutionary,” he says.
But co-creator Steven Canals recalls a time not long ago when he struggled to get “Pose” off the ground.
“I was in and out of executives’ offices where I was being told, ‘This show just doesn’t have legs. You’ll never find an audience,’” he says. “To be in a place where the show is now being honored is beyond.
- 10/26/2018
- by Matthew Carey
- Variety Film + TV
In the summer, Outfest celebrates the latest Lgbtq movies and short films in downtown L.A. During the fall, the non-profit organization turns its attention to legacy: It honors key entertainment figures working today, while raising money to help ensure that past landmark Lgbtq movies do not vanish before our eyes.
The annual Outfest Legacy Awards serve as the key fundraiser for Outfest UCLA Legacy Project, a preservation initiative in conjunction with UCLA Film & Television Archive. UCLA’s archive contains more than 40,000 Lgbtq pieces — from fiction to nonfiction films, home movies and news reports. Among the project’s restored films: “Different From the Others,” the earliest known movie with a gay protagonist.
The German silent feature from 1919 was nearly destroyed by the Nazis, who objected to the story about two male musicians whose love is threatened by blackmail. Within a year of its release, the movie was banned from public...
The annual Outfest Legacy Awards serve as the key fundraiser for Outfest UCLA Legacy Project, a preservation initiative in conjunction with UCLA Film & Television Archive. UCLA’s archive contains more than 40,000 Lgbtq pieces — from fiction to nonfiction films, home movies and news reports. Among the project’s restored films: “Different From the Others,” the earliest known movie with a gay protagonist.
The German silent feature from 1919 was nearly destroyed by the Nazis, who objected to the story about two male musicians whose love is threatened by blackmail. Within a year of its release, the movie was banned from public...
- 10/26/2018
- by Matthew Carey
- Variety Film + TV
Outfest and the highly regarded Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop on Friday announced the launch of an initiative aimed at training trans and non-binary actors.
“With mainstream movies continuing to cast straight actors to play trans roles, it is clear that Hollywood is ignoring the message: trans roles should be portrayed by trans actors,” Outfest executive director Christopher Racster said in a statement. “This helps to ensure authentic depictions of trans folks reflective of their rich, nuanced lives.”
The effort, Racster said, is intended to provide free training to five trans or non-binary actors and help build a pipeline of talent. Hollywood in recent years has been under pressure to become more inclusive of trans artists. GLAAD and 5050by2020, a Time’s Up initiative, recently led a pledge drive calling on leading Hollywood production companies, talent agencies, and others to commit to more inclusive storytelling.
“As a queer artist,...
“With mainstream movies continuing to cast straight actors to play trans roles, it is clear that Hollywood is ignoring the message: trans roles should be portrayed by trans actors,” Outfest executive director Christopher Racster said in a statement. “This helps to ensure authentic depictions of trans folks reflective of their rich, nuanced lives.”
The effort, Racster said, is intended to provide free training to five trans or non-binary actors and help build a pipeline of talent. Hollywood in recent years has been under pressure to become more inclusive of trans artists. GLAAD and 5050by2020, a Time’s Up initiative, recently led a pledge drive calling on leading Hollywood production companies, talent agencies, and others to commit to more inclusive storytelling.
“As a queer artist,...
- 8/10/2018
- by Ricardo Lopez
- Variety Film + TV
Filmmaker Angela Robinson on Thursday issued a call to action to attendees of the opening night of Outfest, telling the audience gathered at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles to vote and encourage others to participate in the upcoming midterm elections.
Outfest, the largest Lgbtq film festival in North America, took on a decidedly political tone this year amid a rolling back of protections for members of the Lgbtq community by the Trump administration and a looming fight over the confirmation of conservative judge Brett Kavanuahg to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Robinson, who was honored with the Outfest Achievement Award Thursday, said that rather than speak about her career, she felt compelled to speak on the need for political organizing ahead of election that will decide the balance of Republicans and Democrats in Congress.
“I’m here to remind you tonight that we – queer folks – are warriors,” said Robinson,...
Outfest, the largest Lgbtq film festival in North America, took on a decidedly political tone this year amid a rolling back of protections for members of the Lgbtq community by the Trump administration and a looming fight over the confirmation of conservative judge Brett Kavanuahg to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Robinson, who was honored with the Outfest Achievement Award Thursday, said that rather than speak about her career, she felt compelled to speak on the need for political organizing ahead of election that will decide the balance of Republicans and Democrats in Congress.
“I’m here to remind you tonight that we – queer folks – are warriors,” said Robinson,...
- 7/13/2018
- by Ricardo Lopez
- Variety Film + TV
The 2018 Outfest Film Festival, the largest Lgbtq film festival in Los Angeles, will feature its most inclusive lineup of filmmakers with narrative and documentary features that reflect a growing sense of activism in the Trump era.
Organizers of Outfest, which which kicks off Thursday night, are celebrating a record number of entries this year by filmmakers of color, women and transgender directors. Two-thirds of films screening at the festival are from these underrepresented groups, a new milestone, said Outfest director of programming Lucy Mukerjee. Last year, 50% of the films at the festival were directed by women.
Mukerjee explained that it has become imperative for Outfest to be more inclusive and intersectional, reflecting not just one narrow view of the Lgbtq community.
“Putting the creative visions of women and people of color and transgender directors on the same plane as cisgender, white directors felt like the only logical and ethical thing to do,...
Organizers of Outfest, which which kicks off Thursday night, are celebrating a record number of entries this year by filmmakers of color, women and transgender directors. Two-thirds of films screening at the festival are from these underrepresented groups, a new milestone, said Outfest director of programming Lucy Mukerjee. Last year, 50% of the films at the festival were directed by women.
Mukerjee explained that it has become imperative for Outfest to be more inclusive and intersectional, reflecting not just one narrow view of the Lgbtq community.
“Putting the creative visions of women and people of color and transgender directors on the same plane as cisgender, white directors felt like the only logical and ethical thing to do,...
- 7/12/2018
- by Ricardo Lopez
- Variety Film + TV
Outfest and Amazon have announced a partnership making more than 60 official selections from Outfest available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Founded in 1982, Outfest holds the Outfest Los Angeles Lgbtq Film Festival every year and has protected more than 35,000 Lgbt films and videos.
“These are challenging times for many and reports of violence against Lgbtq citizens are on the rise,” said Christopher Racster, Executive Director of Outfest, in a statement. “I still believe though in the power of our stories to change that narrative be it for a young teen in Iowa can watch a fully developed Lgbtq character to see a path forward for their own life, to a parent turning on the TV to better understand their child, to the millions who have attended any of our Outfest film festivals over the past 35 years who want to relive a favorite Outfest moment or see something they missed. It...
“These are challenging times for many and reports of violence against Lgbtq citizens are on the rise,” said Christopher Racster, Executive Director of Outfest, in a statement. “I still believe though in the power of our stories to change that narrative be it for a young teen in Iowa can watch a fully developed Lgbtq character to see a path forward for their own life, to a parent turning on the TV to better understand their child, to the millions who have attended any of our Outfest film festivals over the past 35 years who want to relive a favorite Outfest moment or see something they missed. It...
- 4/14/2018
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
Amazon’s Prime Video is now streaming 58 official-selection feature films from Outfest Lgbtq film festivals — with six more coming soon — available to Prime members at no additional cost.
The films were published to Prime Video directly by filmmakers or rights holders through Amazon’s Prime Video Direct self-publishing program, which lets content owners earn royalties based on customer viewing time.
The titles include: comedy “G.B.F.” (pictured above), the 2013 Outfest Los Angeles closing night film; “A Sinner In Mecca,” winner of the 2015 Outfest Grand Jury Award for documentary; “Open,” the first American film to win the Teddy jury prize at the Berlin Film Festival; drama “The Gymnast,” winner of 2006 Outfest Grand Jury Award for American narrative feature; comedy “Women Who Kill,” nominated for Film Independent’s 2018 best first screenplay; documentaries “Major!” and “Political Animals”; and cross-cultural/multigenerational dramedy “Baby Steps.”
“These are challenging times for many and reports of...
The films were published to Prime Video directly by filmmakers or rights holders through Amazon’s Prime Video Direct self-publishing program, which lets content owners earn royalties based on customer viewing time.
The titles include: comedy “G.B.F.” (pictured above), the 2013 Outfest Los Angeles closing night film; “A Sinner In Mecca,” winner of the 2015 Outfest Grand Jury Award for documentary; “Open,” the first American film to win the Teddy jury prize at the Berlin Film Festival; drama “The Gymnast,” winner of 2006 Outfest Grand Jury Award for American narrative feature; comedy “Women Who Kill,” nominated for Film Independent’s 2018 best first screenplay; documentaries “Major!” and “Political Animals”; and cross-cultural/multigenerational dramedy “Baby Steps.”
“These are challenging times for many and reports of...
- 4/12/2018
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
We Want More — Diversity and Visibilityfrom left to right: Sheri Hagen, Simon(e) Paetau, Aurora Rodonò, Christopher Racster, Betty Schiel, Emily Morgan, Karola Gramann, Silke J. Räbiger. Foto: Birgit KleberThe 6th discussion on the status of women in the film business and gender equity on the occasion of the 68th Berlin International Film Festival focused on the topics of diversity and visibility.
Organized by the Dortmund | Cologne International Women’s Film Festival, the round table with international experts from various backgrounds agreed on the urgent need to implement diversity standards in German film funding according to the groundbreaking standards set by the British Film Institute.
It was agreed, that this was only the start of a long overdue debate that needs to be expanded upon and continued in future.
About 120 professionals from the film industry attended the event that was hosted by the Delegation of Thuringia in Berlin and sponsored by Film und Medienstiftung Nrw.
Organized by the Dortmund | Cologne International Women’s Film Festival, the round table with international experts from various backgrounds agreed on the urgent need to implement diversity standards in German film funding according to the groundbreaking standards set by the British Film Institute.
It was agreed, that this was only the start of a long overdue debate that needs to be expanded upon and continued in future.
About 120 professionals from the film industry attended the event that was hosted by the Delegation of Thuringia in Berlin and sponsored by Film und Medienstiftung Nrw.
- 3/28/2018
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Sixth annual discussion on the status of women in the film business and gender equity at the 68th Berlin International Film Festival. This time, it’s not about women in film industry only. Entitled We Want More, the aim is greater diversity in the areas of gender, race, age, sexual orientation and disability. Thanks to the Dortmund | Cologne International Women’s Film Festival for this event.
Discussion & Reception Date: Thursday, 22 February 2018, 11 am
Venue: Delegation of Thuringia in Berlin; Mohrenstraße 64, 10117 Berlin
Please register under RSVP: www.registration.frauenfilmfestival.eu
This Annual International Meeting which I always attend is where more than 200 professionals from different parts of the world meet to network, present results, best practices and initiatives to support women in the film and media business. The subject this year is:
How to stop the ongoing and significant underrepresentation in the film industry? Recognise and acknowledge the quality and value of difference.
Discussion & Reception Date: Thursday, 22 February 2018, 11 am
Venue: Delegation of Thuringia in Berlin; Mohrenstraße 64, 10117 Berlin
Please register under RSVP: www.registration.frauenfilmfestival.eu
This Annual International Meeting which I always attend is where more than 200 professionals from different parts of the world meet to network, present results, best practices and initiatives to support women in the film and media business. The subject this year is:
How to stop the ongoing and significant underrepresentation in the film industry? Recognise and acknowledge the quality and value of difference.
- 2/6/2018
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
“You just pissed off the wrong community,” actor-activist George Takei says.
Hollywood reacted with anger on Wednesday morning over the president’s latest comments on Twitter that transgender people should not serve in the military.
Trump posted three tweets that read: “After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow…… Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military.
“Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming….. victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you.”
Jill Soloway, creator of Amazon Studios’ hit show Transparent, which stars Jeffrey Tambor as a transgender woman and also features transgender actor Alexandra Billings, tweeted: “I can’t think of any situation where banning certain himans makes sense. It only works as hate-normalizing. #overthrow.”
Actor and activist George Takei tweeted: “Donald: With your...
Hollywood reacted with anger on Wednesday morning over the president’s latest comments on Twitter that transgender people should not serve in the military.
Trump posted three tweets that read: “After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow…… Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military.
“Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming….. victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you.”
Jill Soloway, creator of Amazon Studios’ hit show Transparent, which stars Jeffrey Tambor as a transgender woman and also features transgender actor Alexandra Billings, tweeted: “I can’t think of any situation where banning certain himans makes sense. It only works as hate-normalizing. #overthrow.”
Actor and activist George Takei tweeted: “Donald: With your...
- 7/26/2017
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Bryan Fuller will receive Achievement Award.
The 2017 Outfest Los Angeles Lgbt Film Festival presented by HBO will be held from July 6-16.
Outfest has announced Bryan Fuller as its 2017 Achievement Award recipient and revealed the opening and closing night galas.
Francis Lee’s feature debut God’s Own Country starring Josh O’Connor and Alec Secareanu, will open the festival, while Trudie Styler’s comedic Freak Show, starring Bette Midler, Alex Lawther, AnnaSophia Robb, Abigail Breslin, Ian Nelson, Larry Pine and a cameo from Laverne Cox, will close the festival.
The Achievement Award will be presented to Fuller during a ceremony at the Orpheum Theatre on July 6 and is Outfest’s highest honour. It is presented to those who have made a significant contribution to Lgbt film and media.
Fuller is behind such shows as Dead Like Me, Wonderfalls, Pushing Daisies, Hannibal and most recently American Gods.
Gala screenings include the West Coast premiere of the TV...
The 2017 Outfest Los Angeles Lgbt Film Festival presented by HBO will be held from July 6-16.
Outfest has announced Bryan Fuller as its 2017 Achievement Award recipient and revealed the opening and closing night galas.
Francis Lee’s feature debut God’s Own Country starring Josh O’Connor and Alec Secareanu, will open the festival, while Trudie Styler’s comedic Freak Show, starring Bette Midler, Alex Lawther, AnnaSophia Robb, Abigail Breslin, Ian Nelson, Larry Pine and a cameo from Laverne Cox, will close the festival.
The Achievement Award will be presented to Fuller during a ceremony at the Orpheum Theatre on July 6 and is Outfest’s highest honour. It is presented to those who have made a significant contribution to Lgbt film and media.
Fuller is behind such shows as Dead Like Me, Wonderfalls, Pushing Daisies, Hannibal and most recently American Gods.
Gala screenings include the West Coast premiere of the TV...
- 5/16/2017
- ScreenDaily
Occasioned by the upcoming third season of “Transparent,” Jill Soloway and the show’s cast visited the Indiewire studio for a photo shoot. It’s been a busy month for the series creator, who just won her second Emmy for directing the Amazon dramedy and was announced as an honoree of Outfest’s 2016 Legacy Awards.
Read More: Jill Soloway On Why She Addresses Race Head On In ‘Transparent’ Season 3
“Jill Soloway has elevated the current transgender conversation like no one else and presents another facet of the Lgbt family with dignity, honesty, and humor,” said Christopher Racster, Executive Director of Outfest. “There is no other network in the current landscape that is doing more to represent the current attitudes and philosophies of younger viewing audiences than Freeform. Their programming reflects that the path forward for so many young people today is not straight but one full of choices and options...
Read More: Jill Soloway On Why She Addresses Race Head On In ‘Transparent’ Season 3
“Jill Soloway has elevated the current transgender conversation like no one else and presents another facet of the Lgbt family with dignity, honesty, and humor,” said Christopher Racster, Executive Director of Outfest. “There is no other network in the current landscape that is doing more to represent the current attitudes and philosophies of younger viewing audiences than Freeform. Their programming reflects that the path forward for so many young people today is not straight but one full of choices and options...
- 9/25/2016
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
Jill Soloway just won her second Emmy for directing “Transparent,” and now the writer/director and cable network Freeform will be honored at Outfest’s 2016 Legacy Awards. The event will take place on Sunday, October 23 at the performing arts venue Vibiana in downtown Los Angeles.
“Jill Soloway has elevated the current transgender conversation like no one else and presents another facet of the Lgbt family with dignity, honesty, and humor,” stated Christopher Racster, Executive Director of Outfest. “There is no other network in the current landscape that is doing more to represent the current attitudes and philosophies of younger viewing audiences than Freeform. Their programming reflects that the path forward for so many young people today is not straight but one full of choices and options and recognizing that gives us all more equality and understanding.”
Read More: ‘Transparent’ Creator Jill Soloway Teams Up With Amazon To Release Musical Comedy...
“Jill Soloway has elevated the current transgender conversation like no one else and presents another facet of the Lgbt family with dignity, honesty, and humor,” stated Christopher Racster, Executive Director of Outfest. “There is no other network in the current landscape that is doing more to represent the current attitudes and philosophies of younger viewing audiences than Freeform. Their programming reflects that the path forward for so many young people today is not straight but one full of choices and options and recognizing that gives us all more equality and understanding.”
Read More: ‘Transparent’ Creator Jill Soloway Teams Up With Amazon To Release Musical Comedy...
- 9/24/2016
- by Liz Calvario
- Indiewire
It had been 25 days since the Pulse shooting in Orlando, but the effects of the attack on the nightclub reverberated on the nation’s opposite coast at the beginning of the 34th Outfest Los Angeles Lgbt Festival.
Speaking from the stage at the downtown Orpheum Theatre, Opening Night Gala speaker Wilson Cruz noted that the festival’s general atmosphere is markedly different than the one surrounding 2015’s celebration. “Just this time last year,” Cruz said, “we were celebrating marriage equality across this country. Just short of one year later, we would come together again, but this time for the communal experience of grief and mourning.”
Outfest Executive Director Christopher Racster also echoed the sentiment that the evening’s gathering was a tribute to the Lgbt community’s resilient spirit. “Although we still face tough challenges, let’s not forget that love is, and always will be, stronger than hate. Thank...
Speaking from the stage at the downtown Orpheum Theatre, Opening Night Gala speaker Wilson Cruz noted that the festival’s general atmosphere is markedly different than the one surrounding 2015’s celebration. “Just this time last year,” Cruz said, “we were celebrating marriage equality across this country. Just short of one year later, we would come together again, but this time for the communal experience of grief and mourning.”
Outfest Executive Director Christopher Racster also echoed the sentiment that the evening’s gathering was a tribute to the Lgbt community’s resilient spirit. “Although we still face tough challenges, let’s not forget that love is, and always will be, stronger than hate. Thank...
- 7/8/2016
- by Steve Greene
- Indiewire
Plus: Gkids executives join Angelina Jolie on The Breadwinner as executive producers; and more…
Outfest top brass announced the complete line-up of 162 films from 19 countries on Thursday ahead of the July 7-17 festival.
Opening the festival is Samuel Goldwyn Films’ The Intervention, Clea Duvall’s directorial and screenwriting feature debut, while Vertical Entertainment’s Other People closes the event.
“I am proud and honoured to present a program that focuses on the most talented queer voices across all media – from film to television to the web,” said Outfest executive director Christopher Racster.
For full details click here.
Slamdance Presents will release Claire Carré’s directorial debut Embers, which closed the 2016 Slamdance Film Festival, on August 5 at the ArcLight Hollywood. The Orchard will release the film at the same time on VOD.Gkids announced that CEO and founder Eric Beckman and senior vice-president of distribution David Jesteadt will serve as executive producers alongside Angelina Jolie Pitt and others...
Outfest top brass announced the complete line-up of 162 films from 19 countries on Thursday ahead of the July 7-17 festival.
Opening the festival is Samuel Goldwyn Films’ The Intervention, Clea Duvall’s directorial and screenwriting feature debut, while Vertical Entertainment’s Other People closes the event.
“I am proud and honoured to present a program that focuses on the most talented queer voices across all media – from film to television to the web,” said Outfest executive director Christopher Racster.
For full details click here.
Slamdance Presents will release Claire Carré’s directorial debut Embers, which closed the 2016 Slamdance Film Festival, on August 5 at the ArcLight Hollywood. The Orchard will release the film at the same time on VOD.Gkids announced that CEO and founder Eric Beckman and senior vice-president of distribution David Jesteadt will serve as executive producers alongside Angelina Jolie Pitt and others...
- 6/9/2016
- by govi2016@lawnet.ucla.edu (Alec Govi)
- ScreenDaily
Outfest has named Christopher Racster as its new executive director, the organization announced Thursday. He will oversee creative and fiscal management, as well as fundraising, program development and staff management. Racster succeeded Kirsten Schaffer as interim executive director when Schaffer left Outfest in the spring. Racster assumes his official position as executive director effective immediately. A trusted voice in the Lgbtq community for almost 20 years, Racster has made an international impact as an advocate, fundraiser and filmmaker, employing media to help shape public perception and acceptance of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Also Read: Outfest to Honor Tom Hanks,...
- 10/15/2015
- by Joe Otterson
- The Wrap
Outfest, the La nonprofit devoted to sharing on-screen Lgbt stories, has announced that Christopher Racster has been named executive director. Read More: Outfest Legacy Awards to Honor Tom Hanks and 'The Kids Are Alright' Director Lisa Cholodenko Racster succeeded Kirsten Schaffer as interim executive director after her departure in the spring, and he has now officially been named the best candidate for the job. "After an extensive search that yielded many highly qualified candidates, it became clear that our best prospect had been in front of us all along," said Outfest Board of Directors co-presidents Ari Karpel and Laura Ivey. Though Outfest's Film Festival concluded earlier this year, the organization will honor Tom Hanks and Lisa Cholodenko at the organization's legacy awards on November 5. Read More: Outfest 2015: Surveying 6 of the Festival's Most Anticipated Titles ...
- 10/15/2015
- by Aubrey Page
- Indiewire
Festival organisers announced its gala screenings ahead of the Los Angeles event set to run from July 9-19.
Tig is a documentary about stand-up comedienne Tig Notaro who became an overnight sensation when she turned her cancer diagnosis into a stand-up set. François Ozon’s melodrama The New Girlfriend closes the festival.
Additional gala screenings include Sebastián Silva’s Berlin Teddy Award winner and Us Dramatic Centerpiece Nasty Baby starring Silva and Kristin Wiig as well as Alanté Kavaïté’s Sundance selection and International Centerpiece The Summer Of Sangaile.
Peter Greenaway’s Eisenstein In Guanajuato is also an International Centerpiece and the Documentary Centerpieces are Best Of Enemies by Morgan Neville and Robert Gordon and Malcolm Ingram’s Out To Win.
“This year’s gala selections underline the fact that our community is empowered openly identifying as Lgbt,” said Outfest interim executive director Christopher Racster.
“The programme truly represents Outfest’s commitment to use the power of film...
Tig is a documentary about stand-up comedienne Tig Notaro who became an overnight sensation when she turned her cancer diagnosis into a stand-up set. François Ozon’s melodrama The New Girlfriend closes the festival.
Additional gala screenings include Sebastián Silva’s Berlin Teddy Award winner and Us Dramatic Centerpiece Nasty Baby starring Silva and Kristin Wiig as well as Alanté Kavaïté’s Sundance selection and International Centerpiece The Summer Of Sangaile.
Peter Greenaway’s Eisenstein In Guanajuato is also an International Centerpiece and the Documentary Centerpieces are Best Of Enemies by Morgan Neville and Robert Gordon and Malcolm Ingram’s Out To Win.
“This year’s gala selections underline the fact that our community is empowered openly identifying as Lgbt,” said Outfest interim executive director Christopher Racster.
“The programme truly represents Outfest’s commitment to use the power of film...
- 5/7/2015
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Birthday shoutouts go to Channing Tatum (above), who is 32, Carol Burnett is 79, one of my 80's music heroes, Giorgio Moroder is 72, Tom Welling is 35, Michael Damian is 50, and Roger Taylor is 52. What are your fave Duran Duran or Arcadia songs? Mine change all the time, but here's my current list: 10. "Is There Something I Should Know," 9. "Come Undone," 8. "Planet Earth," 7. "Ordinary World," 6. "Wild Boys," 5. "Election Day," 4. "View To A Kill," 3. "Save A Prayer," 2. "Rio," 1. "New Moon On Monday."
Teen Wolf will return to MTV for Season Two on Sunday, June 3rd at 11 Pm Et (after the Movie Awards), and then settle into its regular 10 Pm Et Monday slot the next day.ABC Family has canceled Make It Or Break It after three seasons. Is there anyone who watched it after Josh Bowman left?In ratings news, last night's Revenge was down again to a new series low. Maybe they kept it away too long?...
Teen Wolf will return to MTV for Season Two on Sunday, June 3rd at 11 Pm Et (after the Movie Awards), and then settle into its regular 10 Pm Et Monday slot the next day.ABC Family has canceled Make It Or Break It after three seasons. Is there anyone who watched it after Josh Bowman left?In ratings news, last night's Revenge was down again to a new series low. Maybe they kept it away too long?...
- 4/26/2012
- by snicks
- The Backlot
NEW YORK -- Production outfits Funny Boy Films and Mythgarden are teaming up to make the gay-themed coming-of-age dramedy "Elliot Loves". The script from first-time feature director Terracino chronicles two stages of a Dominican-American youth's life -- first as a 9-year-old struggling to build a relationship with his young mother, then as a 21-year-old looking for love in New York. The nearly $1 million production is slated to begin shooting in July in New York. Mythgarden partners Christopher Racster and actors Chad Allen and Robert Gant will produce the film along with Funny Boy partners Kirkland Tibbels and George Bendele. The screenplay won the Vito Russo Award at the NewFest film festival in 2004.
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