The Icelandic Queer Film Festival will be held for the first time from September 4 to 7, marking thirty years since the very first queer film festival took place in Iceland.
Films that reflect the realities, challenges, and setbacks in the human rights struggle of trans people will be the focus of the inaugural Icelandic Queer Film Festival, taking place September 4–7, 2025, at Bíó Paradís.
The festival will also feature a wide range of exciting films, including both recent works as well as a selection of classic and significant films, all of which share the common theme of queer filmmaking.
Below you will find more detailed information about most of the films.
Heigtened Scrutiny
Civil rights lawyer Chase Strangio's courtroom battles against anti-trans laws intertwine with exposing media narratives impacting public perception of transgender rights.
Sauna
When the gay man Johan meets the trans man William, it’s love at first sight. But William challenges Johan’s understanding of identity and belonging, and their budding relationship is tested by transphobia and Johan’s insecurities.
Asog
A powerful and unique film where the line between documentary and fiction is blurred. We follow the queer teacher REY on their journey to compete in a drag competition. They travel across the Philippines in the wake and shadow of Typhoon Yolanda. A witty and compelling road movie that hits right at the heart!
Big Boys
Jamie is a shy 14-year-old boy who’s excited to go camping with his favorite cousin—until he finds out her new boyfriend is tagging along. What follows is a heartwarming and hilarious journey filled with laughter, awkward moments, and unexpected discoveries.
A charming coming-of-age story for all ages, reminding us that the biggest moments often come when we least expect them.
Four Mothers
Edward is an up-and-coming writer who is facing the biggest opportunity of his career. However, he struggles greatly with leaving his demanding mother, who requires extensive care. Unexpectedly, he finds himself in the company of three “extra mothers” — the friends of his mother — who have traded suburban life for Pride in the Canary Islands.
A funny, heartfelt, and insightful story that has made waves at film festivals over the past year, winning, among other honors, the Audience Award at the London Film Festival 2024.
All Shall Be Well
Angie and Pat have been married for over four decades. But when Pat passes away unexpectedly, Angie finds herself without any legal rights in relation to Pat’s family. She must summon all her strength to preserve her dignity and to hold on to the home the two of them shared for more than thirty years.
Lesbian Space Princess
The lesbian space princess Saira embarks on a rescue mission to try to save her ex-girlfriend, with the help of a nonbinary pop star and a grumpy boomer spaceship. A wildly funny and spaced-out animated film.
If I Die, It‘ll Be of Joy
In a world where the contributions of seniors are often overlooked, Micheline, Francis, and Yves lead a group of elderly activists in revolutionizing the living environments of older people. Together, they challenge stereotypes and prejudices, while redefining ideas about sex, love, and what it means to grow old.
A House Is Not A Disco
The legendary queer beach town of Fire Island, located just an hour from New York City, now finds itself at a crossroads as a new generation reimagines the Pines for a new era of inclusion.
Featuring a large cast of memorable eccentrics, activists, locals, and newcomers reflecting on the legacy of the Pines while preparing their beloved village for its greatest challenge since the AIDS epidemic: rising sea levels caused by climate change. An entertaining and heartfelt portrait of a truly unique community.
Interview with the film’s director: An inside look at A House is Not A Disco
Queer classics
To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar
Three drag queens travel cross-country until their car breaks down, leaving them stranded in a small town.
Paris is Burning
A unique glimpse into New York City’s ballroom scene in the 1980s.
It has been thirty years since the film was first shown in Iceland at the Queer Film Days.
Fucking Åmål
A classic teen movie that everyone saw when it hit theaters in 1999.
Åmål is a small Swedish town where nothing ever happens. Elin is cute, popular, and bored with life. Agnes is lonely, miserable, and hopelessly in love with Elin. One of the most beloved queer classics of all time!
Liquid Sky
Black Sundays kick off the winter with the one and only Liquid Sky in collaboration with IQ (Icelandic Queer Film Festival)! Glitter, gender trouble, space trips, and ’80s new wave on steroids – and you’re never quite sure if you’re watching art or a nightmare.
