Image via Passport.
Film festivals are one of the most important venues available to artists, activists, and individuals who want to make the world a better place to live. Films have the power to entertain, educate, and inspire, and the imaginative stories shown on the screen are guaranteed to enlighten, engage, and mesmerize viewers. Some emerging festivals are bringing a new visibility to their country’s queer community, while others continue the long fight for change and equality, but what all the 2013 film festivals have in common is a dedication to LGBT filmmakers and an opportunity to see their captivating work.
CANADA
Ottawa, ONTARIO
Since 2007, Inside Out has produced a four-day festival in the Ottawa region. With the support of Presenting Sponsor RBC Royal Bank, the Ottawa Festival showcases the best queer cinema from Canada and around the world. The event has received a warm welcome from the gay community in the region, building partnerships with local businesses and LGBT organizations, while experiencing healthy growth in attendance each year (the 2011 Festival attracted more than 3,500 people to 13 film programs and parties). This year, the seventh annual Ottawa Gatineau LGBT Film and Video festival will be held at the National Gallery of Canada and promises to be bigger and better. October 17-20, 2013.
