Since 1998, the Spokane GLBT FIlm Festival has been committed to showing films not seen anywhere else in Spokane. We show contemporary, "independent films" that are of interest to the LGBTQ community. This means that they have been produced in the last couple years, and that you are NOT likely to see these films at local theaters, video stores, the internet, or on television.  The festival name was changed to Spokane LGBTQ Film Festival in 2014.

You can expect to see a variety of queer-related independent films during the festival.  Example topics from previous festivals include on-line sex, sex changes, problems facing long-term relationships, changing stereo-types, political efforts, and living with HIV/AIDS.  We may show films with nudity and sexual content, but will never show films which we consider primarily pornographic or erotic.  Films that contain nudity will be noted on the festival program.

The precise definition of an "independent" film is part of a continuing debate; Here are some example definitions:
Wikipedia
Flavorwire.com
gkindiefilm.com

Choosing films is entirely up to the Film Festival Committee.  Film selection is accomplished by reviewing films 6-9 months prior to the film festival and rating them based on a variety of criteria. In 2013, we reviewed more than 90 films, ranging in length from 3 minutes to more than 2 hours.  Reviewing what other Queer Film Festivals show helps us decide which films we want to solicit for screening. Film makers also request we screen their film by making a film submission to the committee. All films are equally evaluated based on set criteria to create a wish list.  These vetted films then undergo collaborative discussion until a final program is decided.  Judging criteria includes:

• Quality of production
• Strength of film direction
  
• Interest in the topic (We try to include something of interest to every group in the community: gay, lesbian, bi, trans, youth, elder, single, couples, parents, etc.)
• Uniqueness
  
• Cost of Rental (prices range from free to $1000 per film)

The volunteer committee will convene in January 2015 to explore the options for obtaining legal status as a non-profit organization.  We are currently seeking committed volunteers to serve on the standing committee.  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Kyle Richardson: (509-990-0962).