Shoobs kicks things off in South London, 2005, where Lisa finds herself torn between her crushes at a party while engaging in a conversation with her older self. The film cleverly captures the tension and chemistry between her and both potential partners, particularly through her dancing interactions. However, the story leaves the audience yearning for a stronger resolution to her internal conflict.
The Orange at the Seder presents a bold and original concept. It depicts a chosen family of Jewish gay men celebrating Passover and grappling with resistance towards a queer woman who is the girlfriend of one of the group’s key members. While the narrative is rich in thematic complexity, the performances occasionally lack the nuance needed to fully illuminate the tensions between tradition and inclusion. Nevertheless, the film stands out for its unique exploration of breaking boundaries within sacred traditions.
Marleen uses a series of interview setups to juxtapose her vulnerability and insecurities about her appearance and past relationships with the joy she experiences as she navigates her feelings for her female coworker. The narrative builds to a touching and emotionally raw climax. Beautifully performed by Laura Bakker, Lena reflects on her journey toward intimacy and the quiet triumph of standing up for herself.
30s are (NOT) the new 20s takes a chaotic and candid approach to documenting a 30th birthday in a small village. Through unfiltered chats, drunken confessions and unexpected hook-ups, the film captures the joy of embracing adulthood on one’s own terms. It celebrates the freedom of choosing to remain unapologetically messy and cherishing the friendships that grow with you or those that sometimes don’t.
Ripe! bathes in the sticky sensuality of summer romance, transporting us into an analogue dreamscape where heat and desire simmer between Sophie and Gloria. Pablo García Gallego’s cinematography beautifully lights and frames their palpable chemistry, using composition to draw us into their unspoken connection. Raina Landolfi and Rita Roca deliver performances brimming with emotional depth and rich subtext. Ripe! is the highlight of the lineup, immersing the audience so fully that it leaves us yearning for more.
Bisexual Crisis explores the complexities of sexuality and the constraints that labels can sometimes impose. The sharp, witty exchanges between the two protagonists reveal a deep and genuine friendship, where warmth and understanding underscore their interactions. Their connection is portrayed with a refreshing honesty.
Gender Reveal closes the lineup with an unforgettable mix of absurdist humour and thrilling chaos. A trans throuple attend a gender reveal party and the narrative descends from lighthearted satire into Parasite-like horror. Each beat wrings out irony and hilarity while also empowering the surviving throuple, who navigate the madness with wit. It’s a wild and unapologetic finale.
Show title: I Like Who I Like
Venue: BFI, Southbank
Review Date: 23/03/2025
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