Watchlist

Five Films For Freedom

Queer stories from around the world.

Gaydar

07 Mar 2025 — 3 min read

Part of London's queer film festival about to hit town, Five Films For Freedom is a celebration of queer stories from around the world.

Five short films that are part of this year's Flare programme will be made available online for audiences around the world to watch for free. It's an initiative of the British Council.

"Five Films For Freedom has always been about more than just showcasing great LGBTQIA+ films - it's a commitment to creating a space where stories that are often marginalised can thrive..." explains Briony Hanson, director of film at the British Council. "This year's selection reflects a diversity of voices and experiences that continue to challenge assumptions about identity, love and belonging. As we enter our 11th year of partnership with BFI Flare, we're excited to see how these films will spark conversations and inspire action in the face of growing challenges to LGBTQIA+ rights worldwide."

"BFI Flare is a place for community, thought and discussion through films and over the last decade it's been a privilege and a joy for our team to work with filmmakers and the British Council to expand this space across the globe..." adds Kristy Matheson, director of BFI festivals. "As we embark on the 11th edition of Five Films For Freedom, we continue to be inspired by the enormous creativity of LGBTQIA+ storytelling and the power of the short film medium to spark connection and conversation."

The Films

DragFox

Directed by Lisa Ott (UK – 8 minutes)

Eleven-year-old Sam, struggling with their gender identity, feels lost—until a mischievous fox (voiced by Ian McKellen) leaps through their window, leading them on a musical journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

If I Make it to the Morning

Directed by Andre Shen 沈天扬 (USA/China - 9 minutes)

On the final night of her college tour, Chinese teen Ziyi stays with her cool aunt in New York, dreaming of studying there—until an unexpected revelation stirs tension.

NGGAK!!!

Directed by Oktania Hamdani and Winner Wijaya (Indonesia – 8 minutes)

While gaming online, girlfriends Sekar and Bebi share laughs and memes—until Sekar's mother calls, arranging a match for her. Can she make her mother see she's already found the one?

We'll Go Down in History

Directed by Cameron Richards and Charlie Tidmas (UK – 25 minutes)

A heartfelt two-year documentary following TRUK United, a proudly trans football club founded in 2021, as they battle challenges on and off the pitch to build a safe, inclusive community amid rising transphobia.

Wait, Wait, Now!

Directed Ramon Te Wake (New Zealand – 12 minutes)

Left home alone, best friends Alex and Sam raid Mum's wardrobe, embracing a fantasy world where they feel safe—until their parents catch on. Is their bubble about to burst?

Five Films For Freedom can be watched 19-30 March