Queer Screen Mardi Gras Film Festival will stretch across two weeks of LGBTQIA+ cinema at the heart of the Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras celebrations. In 2026, audiences can expect 139 films from 38 countries, including 6 world premieres, 5 international premieres, and 64 Australian premieres. The offering will showcase bold new works, celebrated international titles, and stand-out queer storytelling.
Among the programme highlights is Opening Night film ‘Jimpa’ from Australian director Sophie Hyde, starring Olivia Colman, John Lithgow and Aud Mason-Hyde. . . Closing Night film ‘She’s The He’ starring Misha Osherovich (‘Freaky’), Malia Pyles (‘Pretty Little Liars: ‘Original Sin’) and Nico Carney. . . Plus, ‘Pillion’ starring Alexander Skarsgard (‘Big Little Lies’) and Harry Melling (‘The Queen’s Gambit’).
Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut ‘The Chronology Of Water’ also features, starring Imogen Poots, and is adapted from Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir. Plus there’s ‘Love Me Tender’ starring Vicky Krieps and Antoine Reinartz – a stunning drama based on Constance Debre’s bestseller.
‘A Deeper Love: The Story Of Miss Peppermint’ will offer unprecedented access behind the scenes of the trans icon and ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ runner-up’s rise to fame.
'She's The He'
Also featuring in the 2026 offering are the classic ‘High Art’ by Lisa Cholodenko, gloriously restored in 4K. . . The 30th anniversary of Australian classic ‘Love And Other Catastrophes’. . . The 50th anniversary of ‘The Naked Civil Servant’ starring John Hurt. . . And for the first time, ‘Castration Movie Anthology II: The Best Of Both Worlds’, with underground trans director Louise Weard in attendance.
“This festival would not be possible without our generous partners, donors, members, community supporters, as well as the festival team and volunteers who have put in countless hours to make it happen,”Queer Screen CEO Benson Wu says. “It’s an honour to be able to lead the team and carry forward Queer Screen’s legacy after 32 years. I warmly welcome you back to the cinema to experience the magic with us.”
Tickets on sale now.
Queer Screen Mardi Gras Film Festival is on from 12-26 February in Sydney.
