As NewFest kicks off its fifth annual Pride film series in New York City, the country’s largest LGBTQ film festival is teaming up with AMC Networks.
Part of the network’s ‘Future of Film’ initiative, which showcases emerging talent from festivals across the country, NewFest has curated a collection of six shorts by LGBTQ filmmakers to stream on AMC+ during Pride Month.
“We’re thrilled to partner with AMC Networks to bring NewFest’s programming to a national audience through the Future of Film initiative,” said NewFest executive director David Hatkoff and director of programming Nick McCarthy. “These powerful shorts highlight the depth of queer storytelling and offer a meaningful platform for emerging filmmakers to reach wider audiences. We’re grateful to AMC+ for helping amplify these vital voices.”
Courtney Thomasma, AMC Networks’ EVP of linear and streaming products, said in a statement, “We’re proud to partner with NewFest to celebrate Pride and bring these outstanding stories to AMC+. We can’t wait for audiences to discover the works of these talented emerging voices alongside fan favorite series and films all month long.”
Available to stream on AMC+ starting June 1, ‘Future of Film: Newfest 2025’ features films from past NewFest Pride and New York LGBTQ+ Film Festival lineups, including these titles:
CITY OF DREAMZ, directed by Imani Celeste (USA, 2023)
NewFest36 Selection
Four Black art students tell stories of community, divine intervention, and the artistry that led them to this very moment…smoking weed in a cramped apartment trying not to get caught.
GENDER REVEAL, directed by Mo Matton (Canada, 2024)
NewFest36 Selection
Rhys, a people pleaser, winds up at their boss’ gender reveal party with their two partners. The trans throuple soon realizes that they are dealing with more than they were prepared for and their ability to survive the event comes into question.
HOT SEAT, Sohrob Nayebaziz (USA, 2024)
NewFest36 Selection
Recipient of NewFest36’s Short Film Jury Special Mention
Asher realizes a chair they threw out is worth thousands and will stop at nothing to get it back.
LOVIN’ HER, directed by Day (Canada/USA, 2024)
NewFest36 Selection
The breadth of a trans woman’s life is shown as she navigates the complexities of a fading memory. Blending the past and present, glimpses of her struggles with love and her evolving gender identity showcase a heartfelt portrait of humanity.
MnM, directed by Twiggy Pucci Garçon (USA, 2023)
NewFest Pride 2024 Selection
Chosen sisters Mermaid and Milan, emerging runway divas in the drag ballroom community celebrate their joy, siblinghood, and unapologetic personas. The documentary explores the power & beauty of being nonbinary in a community that prizes gender “realness.”
ZARI, by Shruti Parekh (USA/India, 2024)
NewFest36 Selection
Recipient of NewFest36’s Short Film Grand Jury Prize and Narrative Short Audience Award
American teen Neelu feels like a fish out of water amidst preparations for her sister’s wedding in Delhi until she forges a brief and unexpected connection with Zeyb, a quiet sari store clerk who moonlights as an internet drag queen.
