NewFest 2025 Ignites New York with Global Queer Cinema and Community

New York City’s NewFest LGBTQ+ Film Festival, now in its 37th year, opens its doors October 9-21, 2025, for what organizers describe as their most ambitious, inclusive, and politically resonant event yet . More than 130 queer films from around the globe will be screened in-person at theaters throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn, as well as virtually for nationwide audiences, ensuring accessibility for viewers across the United States . With a lineup that spans narrative features, documentaries, and shorts, NewFest 2025 affirms the enduring power of LGBTQ+ voices in cinema and the urgent relevance of queer narratives in a changing world.

The festival’s theme, “Showing up is a protest—every screening a statement, every story a spark,” reflects its dual role as both cultural celebration and political act . Among the most anticipated films are:

- Opening Night: "Blue Moon" - A lyrical drama exploring intergenerational queer relationships and chosen family, setting the tone for the festival’s focus on intersectionality and resilience .

- Closing Night: "Christy"—A vibrant portrait of self-discovery and community, capping the festival with a celebration of authenticity .

- New York Centerpiece: "A Deeper Love: The Story of Miss Peppermint"—An intimate documentary chronicling the life and activism of trans performer and advocate Peppermint, highlighting the festival’s commitment to trans visibility .

- International Centerpiece: "Night Stage"—A global spotlight on queer nightlife and performance, bridging continents and cultures through dance, drag, and music .

Other notable selections include “The Chronology of Water,” a poetic meditation on queer embodiment, and “Come See Me in the Good Light,” a documentary centerpiece focusing on LGBTQ+ elders and intergenerational dialogue .

NewFest’s film selection this year foregrounds underrepresented voices with a particular emphasis on transgender, nonbinary, and BIPOC experiences . “The Serpent’s Skin,” directed by Alice Maio Mackay, follows a young trans woman with supernatural abilities, exploring identity and power in a genre-bending narrative . The festival also marks the 40th anniversary of “My Beautiful Laundrette,” Stephen Frears’ iconic British queer film, with a special “Film Feast” event pairing the screening with a themed multi-course meal .

In addition, Oscar-winner Dustin Lance Black’s documentary “Rock Out” uncovers the hidden queer roots of heavy metal, punk, and rock-and-roll, spotlighting the intersection of sexuality and subculture . Shorts programs, such as the “Black Queer Pride Mixtape with Vimeo,” celebrate Black LGBTQ+ joy, artistry, and resilience, amplifying stories often missing from mainstream narratives .

NewFest 2025 is more than a film festival—it is a gathering space for education, activism, and belonging. Alongside its film screenings, the festival offers a robust schedule of panels, Q&As, and workshops featuring filmmakers, activists, and community leaders . Topics range from the ethics of queer storytelling to strategies for advancing LGBTQ+ rights in hostile political climates. Many events are held in accessible venues, with virtual programming available nationwide, reflecting NewFest’s commitment to inclusivity for all LGBTQ+ people, including those with disabilities or living outside major urban centers .

Social events, such as the Opening and Closing Night parties, Festival Lounge gatherings, and outdoor screenings in public plazas, foster informal connection and celebration. Partner organizations—including national advocacy groups, cultural institutions, and local LGBTQ+ nonprofits—contribute to a festival atmosphere rooted in solidarity and mutual support .

Recognizing the importance of access, NewFest 2025 streams select films and panel discussions to audiences across the United States, expanding its reach beyond New York City . This hybrid model, adopted during the pandemic, continues to break down geographic and economic barriers, making queer cinema available to viewers in rural, suburban, and international settings.

The festival’s outreach efforts also include partnerships with schools, libraries, and community centers, offering free or discounted passes to youth, elders, and low-income community members. This year’s educational programming includes workshops on queer film history, media literacy, and the role of art in social change .

Filmmakers and attendees alike underscore the significance of NewFest as both a professional opportunity and a personal affirmation. “Festivals like NewFest are where our stories find their audience, and where we find each other,” said a featured director whose film explores queer parenthood . Audience members describe the event as a “homecoming” and a “beacon for those seeking visibility and understanding” .

The festival’s leadership, including Executive Director David Hatkoff and Director of Programming Nick McCarthy, emphasizes a curatorial vision that prioritizes both artistic excellence and community relevance . In their statement, they note, “NewFest is an act of rebellion—and it begins with you. This year, showing up is a protest. Every screening is a statement. Every story is a spark” .

As anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and cultural backlash intensify in many parts of the world, NewFest’s role as a platform for resistance and joyful resilience remains vital . The 2025 festival not only celebrates cinematic achievement but also mobilizes audiences to action, fostering a sense of hope and solidarity that extends far beyond the screen.

Festival passes and single tickets are now available, with special discounts for students, seniors, and members of partner organizations. For more information, including the full lineup, schedule, and accessibility options, visit newfest.org .