The 14th edition of KASHISH Mumbai International Queer Film Festival, the largest LGBTQ+ film festival in South Asia, is scheduled to take place from June 7 to 11, 2023, at Liberty Cinema, and from June 8 to 10, 2023, at Alliance Française de Bombay. Additionally, the festival will be available for online viewing from June 16 to 25, 2023.
The festival will showcase a total of 110 films from 41 countries during its in-person event and a total of 127 films from 45 countries overall.
Sridhar Rangayan, the festival’s founder and director, has provided a recommended film for KASHISH 2023 audiences:
Title: Pine Cone
Director: Onir
Duration: 105 minutes
Country: India
Language: Hindi
“Pine Cone” tells three interconnected stories from the life of filmmaker Sid Mehra, as he navigates relationships in his pursuit of love. The stories are presented in reverse chronological order, spanning the years 2019, 2009, and 1999. While Sid is proudly gay, his identity does not define him as a person. The film explores the idea that love is universal and that Sid refuses to apologize for being true to himself, determined to live life to the fullest despite the world’s prejudices.
Sridhar Rangayan recommends “Pine Cone” as the festival’s opening film. Directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Onir, it is a beautiful portrayal of love. What makes it even more remarkable is that Onir has cast queer actors in the lead roles.
THE LAW OF LOVE
Director: Barbora Chalupová
Duration: 89 minutes
Country: Czech Republic
Language: Czech
In the seemingly LGBT+ friendly society of the Czech Republic, the struggle for legalizing same-sex marriage exposes ignorance and hatred. Czeslaw and his companions launch a campaign to demonstrate that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Europe is far from over.
Sridhar Rangayan recommends this film, stating, “While the topic of marriage equality is currently prominent in India, this Czech film reveals the vehement opposition faced by same-sex love from vested interests. It showcases how the LGBTQ+ community must fight for their rights, which should be granted to every citizen of the country.”
MAMA BEARS
Director: Daresha Kyi
Duration: 90 minutes
Country: USA
Language: English
Did you know that there are over 32,000 mothers in America, many from conservative Christian backgrounds, who wholeheartedly accept their LGBTQ+ children? They refer to themselves as “mama bears” because, although their love is warm and nurturing, they fiercely advocate for a kinder and safer world for all LGBTQ+ individuals. MAMA BEARS explores this growing movement through the lives of three diverse mothers and their LGBTQ+ offspring.
Sridhar Rangayan recommends the film, saying, “Queer children are incomplete without the support of their families. When parents step up to fight for their children, one can witness the profound love they have for their kids. These parents are an inspiration, and I would like to invite our own parents support group, Sweekar – The Rainbow Parents, to come and watch this beautiful film.”
EK JAGAH APNI
Director: Ektara Collective
Duration: 88 minutes
Country: India
Language: Hindi
After being evicted from their previous rental, Laila and Roshni embark on a search for a new home. It becomes evident that their quest for a place in society extends beyond physical spaces and challenges societal norms that attempt to marginalize them. As they continue their search, new friendships blossom, and unexpected sources offer help.
Sridhar Rangayan recommends the film, stating, “This film has been capturing hearts and receiving accolades wherever it has been screened worldwide, and we are proud to present its Mumbai premiere. It features real-life transgender actors who have delivered brilliant performances. They will be present at KASHISH to showcase their film and participate in a panel discussion.”
KISSING THE GROUND YOU WALKED ON
Director: Hong Heng Fai
Duration: 93 minutes
Country: Macau
Language: Cantonese
Chou, a writer who has been experiencing a creative block for years, seeks a tenant to share a spare room in his house. One day, an actor named Chiang comes to rent the room. Chiang’s clear and innocent eyes spark Chou’s interest. Chou discovers that Chiang’s daily life is like a performance in itself, leading him to view the new tenant as the blueprint for his novel.
Sridhar Rangayan recommends the film, saying, “We rarely come across films from Macau, and this beautifully crafted feature-length film is truly special. It is an adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s ‘Seagull’ and marks the filmmaker’s debut. The film utilizes sensual experiences more than words to convey its narrative, blurring the boundaries between the observer and the observed.”
OLD NARCISSUS
Director: Tsuyoshi Shoji
Duration: 110 minutes
Country: Japan
Language: Japanese
Yamazaki, an aging picture book writer who was once handsome, becomes obsessed with his fading beauty. However, he struggles to accept his own aging process. One night, Yamazaki encounters Leo, a young and beautiful man. During their interaction, Yamazaki collapses and reveals his agony.
Sridhar Rangayan recommends the film, stating, “This is a unique film that explores old age and the experiences of today’s youth. Set in contemporary Japan, it offers a glimpse into the past and present of Japanese gay culture. The filmmaker, Tsuyoshi Shoji, whose previous short film won an award at KASHISH last year, will be present at the festival to showcase his film.”
WHEN TIME GOT LOUDER
Director: Connie Cocchia
Duration: 113 minutes
Countries: Canada, USA
Language: English
As Abbie leaves for college, she leaves behind her parents and her brother Kayden, who is autistic. While Abbie revels in her newfound independence and develops a romantic relationship with a woman, her parents focus on teaching Kayden essential life skills as he transitions from high school to adulthood, adjusting to a routine without Abbie. When Abbie returns home for the holidays, she discovers that Kayden is in the hospital, and as a family, they must find a solution for his future.
Sridhar Rangayan recommends the film, remarking, “As the closing film of the festival, ‘When Time Got Louder’ is a heartfelt and passionately made film. The cast and crew, composed of individuals from the queer and autistic communities, demonstrate their exceptional abilities. This film embodies the future of filmmaking, showcasing the synergy of people from the communities they represent.”
