After two years of virtual programming, the Kaleidoscope LGBTQ+ Film Festival will be returning in person this week at Argenta Community Theater. Arkansas’s only queer film festival, presented by Central Arkansas Pride, begins Thursday, May 19, and has an impressive slate of eight feature films and 55 short films from around the world.
Highlights include “Flee,” a triple Oscar-nominated animated documentary, and a block showcasing short films made in Arkansas. Other events include an opening night reception, a trivia night, comedy from director Del Shores and an interactive exhibit on the history of LGBT representation in film created by University of Arkansas students. New to the festival this year are workshops for filmmakers. Film passes are available for $30, and VIP passes granting access to special events are $80.
“We are thrilled to bring high quality LGBTQ+ films and programming to Arkansas,” Central Arkansas Pride’s Executive Director Zack Baker said in a press release about the festival. “We strive to bring a lineup of thought-provoking and diverse films from all across the globe that explore the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community here and abroad. We are returning to in-person programming in a big way and can’t wait to enjoy these films and events with the community again.”