This year’s Outfest — the nation’s most prominent LGBTQ film festival — is one of its most diverse yet. The event boasts over 200 films from more than 30 countries; two-thirds were directed by women, people of color, and transgender filmmakers. That’s not to mention the festival’s always-stellar collection of shorts, panels, and of course, parties.
A queer film lover really can’t go wrong attending any of these screenings or events. But a few stood out from the crowd for The Advocate’s editors. See our highlights below. For the full lineup of the Outfest Los Angeles LGBTQ Film Festival, visit Outfest.org.
José
Narrative feature; Tuesday, July 23, 7:00 p.m. at Plaza de la Raza; Buy tickets here.
Winner of the Venice Queer Lion, this intimate neorealist story follows José, a 19-year-old who finds escape from his working-class existence in Guatemala City through hookup apps and casual meetups. He discovers meaning in his encounters with Luis, a migrant construction worker who dreams of a better life for them together. But can this passionate new relationship — and the promise of change — rival José’s bond with his doting, religious mother?
Directed by Li Cheng
The Advocate by Daniel Reynolds
