The MiFo LGBT Film Festival Miami edition kick off its 18th season on April 22nd, and with more than 80 films, the lineup is a spectacular reflection of the festival’s international growth and expansion. The festival runs from April 22 through May 1. (www.MiFoFilm.com)
This year, MiFo welcomes Celebrity Cruises to the MiFo family, joining Gilead and SHOWTIME as Presenting Sponsors of both the Miami and Fort Lauderdale editions of the festival.
“We are grateful for the commitment and support of Celebrity Cruises, Gilead and SHOWTIME, along with the dozens of other sponsors, propelling MiFo’s 2016 edition to be bigger and better than ever,” said Victor Gimenez, Executive Director of MiFo. “As the corporate culture continues to recognize the value of supporting the LGBT film community, we are able to present a more diverse, international lineup of films, demonstrating that UNITED WE FILM.”
At a time in history that has seen momentous strides in LGBT equality, LGBT films have also risen to prominence worldwide. MiFo is proud to present more than 80 films from 28 countries, guest appearances by actors, directors and producers, and a lineup of spectacular parties and events. The array of films includes 39 Features, 14 Documentaries, 31 Shorts and an unprecedented number of Premieres: 4 World Premieres, 3 International Premieres, 1 North American Premiere, 3 US Premieres, 17 East Coast Premieres, 4 Southeast Premieres and 2 Florida Premieres.
Films will be screened at the Regal Cinemas South Beach, Colony Theater, Miami Beach Cinematheque and the Wolfsonian-FIU, all in the heart of South Beach.
The Opening Night film on Friday, April 22 will be the international premiere of A Holy Mess (En underbar jävla jul), written and directed by Helena Bergström of Sweden. The film takes a lighthearted look at what ensues when a gay couple invites their somewhat homophobic families to meet for the first time during a Christmas celebration.
A complete schedule of screenings, special events and parties will be available online beginning March 18 at www.mifofilm.com.
Rebranded in 2015 as “MiFo,” the moniker joins together the Miami and Fort Lauderdale LGBT film festivals under one umbrella and one brand. This not only solidifies South Florida as a major market for showcasing LGBT films, but also provides an opportunity for sponsors such Celebrity, Gilead and SHOWTIME to reach a broader, brand-loyal audience throughout South Florida.
The festival’s motto “UNITED WE FILM,” not only signifies the melding of Miami and Fort Lauderdale under one brand, but is also reflective of the diversity of the films, the market and the MiFo audience.
The MiFo LGBT Film Festival is an internationally acclaimed event serving as a platform for numerous World, North American, and East Coast Premiers. MiFo is also the largest LGBT cultural arts event in South Florida.
MiFo Miami has grown from a three-day festival in which 25 films were presented, to the current 10-day event with 80+ films. The Fort Lauderdale Edition – October 7 through October 16 – has evolved from a three-day event to a two-weekend event showcasing 50+ films.
Look for updates by visiting MiFo at www.MiFofilm.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/mifofilmfest.