The Newark LGBTQ Film Festival shows no signs of slowing down in its celebration of LGBTQ BIPOC films and creators. With such a strong slate of submissions this year, the organizers expanded from three days to four days. This year’s turnout was the strongest yet. Many people from the area filled the seats and enjoyed films featuring characters that we do not often see on the screen.
These stories celebrate experiences that are important for audiences to see as queer people of color are an integral part of our community.
The festival kicked off with a bang on Thursday, opening night with the riveting drama PonyBoi. The film follows an intersex sex worker on the run from their pimp and hoping to start a fresh new life. It radiated a distinct New Jersey energy, with even shore towns making appearances throughout the story.
Legendary film star Dylan O’Brien has a jaw dropping performance and an intensity that kept the crowd on the edge of the seats. It was a roller coaster ride with many messages about overcoming trauma woven into the plot. The crowd was engaged, and energized — making it quite possibly the strongest opening night film the festival has brought to Newark yet.
Friday night featured the documentary The Ball along with the beloved Date Night Shorts collection. The Ball offered an intimate look into the vibrant ballroom dancing subculture within New York City’s LGBTQ community, powerfully portraying the sense of chosen family that often forms in these spaces.
A standout from the shorts collection was Eating Papaw on the Seashore, a romantic and heartfelt story about two Guyanese boys exploring their connection amidst the challenges of growing up in a homophobic society. Tender and sincere, this short was a perfect addition for couples looking to enjoy a love story on a night out.
The festival continued over the weekend, with many more compelling films. Saturday showcased a series of powerful short films, with Arthur Ave. emerging as a highlight. Set in the Bronx, this film confronts the painful reality as well as the aftermath of a hateful incident involving traditional Italian American macho men and a gay couple. The short effectively explores how acts of hate still persist — and why compassion and understanding are more essential than ever.
On Sunday, the festival shifted venues from Express Newark to Jim Wise Theater at NJIT for its final day. Here the fest featured the shorts program To Be Young, Gifted & Queer. This student-accessible showcase was free admission to those in school now. It focused on stories about younger LGBTQ individuals. The shorts presented a powerful platform for voices that will shape the future. All the films resonated deeply, particularly with the next generation preparing to step into adulthood.
The festival closed on an inspiring high note, leaving audiences eager to see what next spring’s event will bring. It is clear The Newark LGBTQ+ Film Festival is a must see event that anyone who loves great films told from unique perspectives should definitely keep in mind to attend next year.
Here is a video link to the wrap-up
