Join us for a special screening of Five Films For Freedom, the world’s widest reaching LGBTQIA+ online celebration. 

 

A partnership between Basement Theatre the British Council NZ and Pacific and BFI Flare; London’s LGBTQIA+ film festival, Five Films For Freedom makes five international LGBTQIA+ short films available to watch as a free public screening in partnership with Basement Theatre! 

 

Please register your ticket using the book now button to secure your seat!

 

Come support your local, bring your friends and enjoy five beautifully curated short films that celebrate, showcase, explore and implore thought provoking kōrero, whakaaro around LGBTQ+ themes and story.

 

FIVE FILMS FOR FREEDOM PROGRAMME

 

I HATE HELEN

Director Katie Lambert, UK, PG

Priya hates Helen. She hates her in the canteen. Hates her in science. Especially hates her at swimming. Mostly, Priya hates the way Helen makes her feel. A short film about the tidal wave of lust some girls feel in school and letting those feelings just wash over you.

 

RAG DOLLS

Director Amy Adler, USA / Mexico

Married couple Rosalinda (born with spina bifida) and Diana (who has cerebral palsy) navigate life in Puebla, Mexico, where disability intersects with discrimination and poverty. Abandoned by family, underserved by government support systems, and facing persistent homophobia, the women have built a life centred on mutual care and protection. Observing a single ordinary day, the film follows their routines, a romantic date, and moments of reflection on their enduring love.

 

ROOM 206

Dir. Laurie Bisceglia, France

After undergoing gender-affirming surgery, Clair no longer cares what the world thinks. Reclaiming his body becomes a path toward self-recognition for the first time in his life. This documentary accompanies him not only through physical change, but towards emotional renewal and a new beginning.

 

SWEAT (Mồ Hôi)

Director Edward Nguyen, Vietnam, PG

On the eve of leaving rural Vietnam, farm worker Hung prepares to illegally cross the border in search of refuge abroad. Defined by routine and labour, his final day with Hoang, a fellow worker, reshapes his understanding of desire, intimacy and selfhood.

 

THEO

Director Monica Palazzo & Joana Galvão, Brazil, G 

Brazil, 1986. During the World Cup, seven-year-old Theo quietly navigates school life while defying rigid gender expectations. Between silence and rebellion, they begin inventing their own way of existing.

 

RATINGS -  General to Parental Guidance 

CONTENT WARNINGS - N/A

PARTNERSHIP - British Council NZ and the Pacific, BFI Flare