QE: Docs4Pride – four free films to amplify LGBTQ+ voices

Through the power of film, QE: Docs4Pride, which launches on Friday, July 3 and is part of the Queer East Film Festival, will aim to uplift and amplify the voices of those marginalised in the LGBTQ+ community with four carefully selected films, which feature compelling stories of resistance, the fight for civil rights, legal protection and the LGBTQ+ liberation movement in respective countries.

The documentaries, which focus on queer activism, challenging norms, and the history of LGBTQ+ movements in China, Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines, are Out Run (US, Philippines), Shanghai Queer (China), Taipeilove* (Germany, Taiwan) and Of Love and Law (Japan, UK, France).

All films are available to watch worldwide, except Of Love & Law which is UK and Ireland only. Each title will be available to stream for a week for free at Queer East’s website and Vimeo channel.

Yi Wang, Director of Queer East, said: ‘Global events this year are a strong reminder of the importance activism and reflection play in progressing human rights. Everyone has a role in constructing a more diverse and equitable world and pride season is a time for the LGBTQ+ community to look closely and address existing challenges in the queer landscape.

‘The QE: Docs4Pride series aims to amplify the otherwise unheard voices of people of colour in the LGBTQ+ community and facilitate constructive conversations about the intersectionality of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and nationality.

‘The virus has kept us apart, but through digital spaces, we hope these four documentaries can unlock the collaborative strength of queer community and take action against inequalities.’

QE: Docs4Pride is the second virtual film series from Queer East Film Festival, which has had to postpone screenings following Covid-19 restrictions. The previous QE: HomeSexual Edition received donations from nearly 400 supporters to support the temporarily closed independent cinemas due to host screenings.

QE: Docs4Pride is part of Film Feels Connected, a UK-wide cinema season supported by the National Lottery and BFI Film Audience Network.

Explore all films and events by visiting the website; with additional support from Brent 2020 Culture Fund, as part of Brent 2020, London Borough of Culture.