BFI Flare 2025 is set to return to London from March 19 to 30, 2025, bringing an incredible line-up of LGBTQIA+ films, discussions, and networking opportunities. As one of the world’s most significant and longest-running queer film festivals, BFI Flare showcases the latest and greatest in LGBTQIA+ storytelling from across the globe.
Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a casual moviegoer, or someone eager to explore unique LGBTQIA+ narratives, this guide covers everything you need to know—from the films to watch, free events, ticketing, and top recommendations.
What is BFI Flare 2025?
BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival is the UK’s biggest celebration of queer cinema, hosted by the British Film Institute (BFI) at BFI Southbank. The festival features a carefully curated selection of films that explore the complexities, struggles, and triumphs of LGBTQIA+ lives. Over the years, BFI Flare has been a platform for groundbreaking premieres, classic retrospectives, and must-watch indie gems.
BFI Flare divides its film selections into three main categories:
- Hearts – Love, relationships, and romance take center stage.
- Bodies – Identity, transformation, and sexuality explored through compelling narratives.
- Minds – Stories that challenge perceptions and provoke thought on politics, art, and community.
In addition to films, the festival offers panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As, industry networking events, and vibrant social gatherings, making it an unmissable cultural highlight for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies alike.
Must-watch films at BFI Flare 2025
This year’s festival boasts an impressive selection of feature films, short films, and documentaries. Here are some of our top picks:
Drip Like Coffee
Drip Like Coffee is a romantic drama set in Brooklyn, following two queer Black baristas as they navigate love and self-discovery. The film explores the intersection of race, gender, and sexuality, offering a heartfelt portrayal of femme love within the Black queer community, a narrative often underrepresented in mainstream cinema.
Screening details: Friday, 28th of March at 17:40. Tickets available here.
Night Stage
This gripping psychosexual thriller delves into the complexities of attraction and power dynamics. Set against the backdrop of a nocturnal urban landscape, the film unravels the intense relationship between two protagonists whose lives become dangerously intertwined.
Screening details: The first two days are sold out, but you can still get tickets for the Closing Night Gala on Sunday, the 30th March at 19:15. Tickets start from £5.
Dreams in Nightmares
A Black queer road movie that follows three friends embarking on a journey to find their missing companion. Along the way, they confront personal demons, societal challenges, and the strength of their bond.
Screening details: Monday, 24th of March at 14:50 at BFI Southbank NFT1. Get tickets here, starting from £5.
Really Happy Someday
Really Happy Someday is a musical-inspired story about a young actor’s journey to self-acceptance after transitioning. Blending emotional depth with musical theatre elements, the film explores the challenges of gender identity, acceptance, and the empowering process of rediscovering one’s true self in a world that may not always understand.
Screening details: Sunday, 23th of March at 20:40. Tickets available here.
Outerlands
Starring Asia Kate Dillon, “Outerlands” is a poignant drama exploring non-binary identity, trauma, and addiction. The film portrays the protagonist’s journey towards self-acceptance amidst societal prejudices.
Screening details: Saturday, 22th of March at 20:50. Get tickets here.
Free events and screenings at BFI Flare 2025
Aside from the paid-for film screenings, BFI Flare offers several free-to-access events that still allow attendees to experience the festival’s vibrant energy:
- FiveFilmsForFreedom: This annual initiative by BFI and the British Council makes five LGBTQIA+ short films available for free online worldwide. These films will be streaming online throughout the festival and available via the British Council’s official website.
- DJ Nights at BFI Southbank: Every Friday and Saturday night during the festival, BFI Flare hosts electrifying DJ sets at the BFI Riverfront, providing a space to socialise and celebrate queer culture.
- Filmmaker Q&As and Panel Discussions: Throughout the festival, attendees can participate in filmmaker Q&As and panel discussions that provide insight into the creative process and the industry challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ filmmakers.
- BFI Flare Screen Talks: These are special in-depth conversations with renowned queer filmmakers and actors. The talks are free to attend but require advance booking via the BFI website to secure a spot.
You can see the full list of events or download the BFI Flare 2025 brochure here to get the complete rundown of activities and timings.
Ticket information: what’s free and what’s not?
BFI Flare 2025 is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with flexible pricing options:
- General ticket prices: Start from £5, with discounts for BFI Members.
- Festival pass: Allowing you to watch 10 feature films of your choice.
- BFI 25 & Under: Those aged 16 to 25 can sign up for free and enjoy £5 tickets for all screenings and events.
Why you should attend BFI Flare 2025
As the official platform for queer voices in the film industry, BFI Flare champions unique LGBTQIA+ filmmakers, stories, and voices that are often overlooked by mainstream cinema.
If you’re passionate about film, this festival offers a chance to see fresh talent and innovative storytelling first, before it goes on to hit the global spotlight and become critically acclaimed.
If you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community or interested in broadening your knowledge on its history, the festival is also a great way to explore the richness of queer stories through unique lenses.
While you’re out in Central London, make sure to take advantage of London Theatre Week or visit a new art exhibition (can’t ever get too much culture).