Relaxed Screening: Closer

A repeat, relaxed screening of our Opening Presentation shorts program.

A dazzling celebration of our gorgeous queer community, this showcase of superb short films reminds us why we shimmy through the world with pride. Harnessing heart, humour, and style into a display of the supercharged strength we build by having each other’s backs—no matter where we come from or how we identify—these stories link arm-in-arm to announce their authentic truths. Familiar faces, such as beloved actor Ben Whishaw, and rising talents like Oji-Cree- Saulteaux poet jaye simpson star as queer heroes in this dynamic collection.

Relaxed screenings will include these accommodations:

  • Doors remain open to the lobby/foyer
  • House lights remain on but slightly dimmed
  • Film audio is slightly reduced
  • No trailers or ads play before the film
  • Reduced capacity to increase seating selection and distancing
  • Audience noise and movement is permitted during the show
  • Audience may enter and exit the theatre as needed
  • Sound reduction headphones provided upon request, dependent on availability
  • Complimentary ticket for a companion

Learn more about accessibility at VQFF. If you have questions or would like to make an accessibility request, please contact boxoffice@outonscreen.com.

Good Boy

Tom Stuart / United Kingdom / 2024 / 16 min / English

A desperate man (Ben Whishaw, Skyfall) prepares to rob a bank, but his overly supportive mother (Marion Bailey) derails his plans.

F**KED

Sara Harrak / United Kingdom / 2023 / 6 / English

One half of a lesbian couple wonders whether she’s fully explored her sexuality or if there’s more to discover.

Bloomed in the Water

Joanne Mony Park / United States / 2024 / 14 min / Korean, English

When school picture day gets lost in translation, a Korean American mom tries to course-correct, striving to love better.

I'll Tell You When I'm Ready

Hayley Morin / Canada / 2024 / 14 min / English

“If they’re gonna eat me alive, I want them to have to chew.” Poet, activist, and drag performer jaye simpson revisits her childhood.

Great Canyon

Ella May Sahlman / United States / 2023 / 7 min / English

In this short rom-com, a gay man (Johnny Sibilly, Hacks) navigates a swirl of anxieties and insecurities on a first date.

Really Good Driver

Alex Song-Xia / United States / 2024 / 8 min / English

An Asian American mom teaches her teen to drive, forcing both to confront parts of themselves–and the car– for the first time.

Is Gay Marriage Next?

Emily Clark / United States / 2024 / 16 min / English

A woman looks for the lesbian couple on the historic cover of a 2003 Newsweek magazine to thank them for inspiring her.