The Toronto Inside Out LGBT Film Festival is one of the top five LGBT film festivals in the world. With over 200 films and videos and 35,000 people annually, this is the place to be. There are panel discussions, parties and art and if one were to say they were bored, they would be lying. This is a true celebration of diversity and support for the LGBT community.
Inside Out is one of the biggest charities dedicated to challenging attitudes and changing lives through cinema supporting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. The film festival started in 1991 and has a strong following in the LGBT community.
People from all over the world flocks to this eleven-day event. You’re bound to bump into a celebrity or maybe two. The festival officially kicks off May 22nd and runs to May 31st with a screening of “Grandma.” The film tells a story of a lesbian grandma Elle Reid whose life is turned upside down when her 18-year-old granddaughter needs her help. The film stars Lily Tomlin, Laverne Cox, and Marcia Gay Harden.
Another film to look for is “Bessie” starring Queen Latifah. Bessie follows the life of legendary blues singer Bessie Smith and her rise to fame during the 1920s and 1930s. Follow Bessie through her turbulent childhood to her lesbian love affairs.
“Fresno” stars Orange is the New Black’s Natasha Lyonne and follows two sisters faced with covering up an accidental murder at a hotel. This will be the film’s international debut.
Some other films to look out for are the suspenseful documentary “The Amina Profile,” a romantic comedy “Portrait of a Serial Monogamist,” a comedy about an unconventional pregnancy “Two 4 One” and expect so much more. Festival goers faithfully attend this festival every year. Once you attend one, you can’t miss another! You can nab your tickets now. There are more movies and galas than there is enough time in a day. So don’t forget to attend a gala and take a walk on the pink carpet.
“Grandma” trailer looks all sorts of entertaining.
