A new film festival in Twentynine Palms is showcasing queer voices here in the desert and from around the world.
Announced yesterday, the 1st Annual 29 Queer Film Festival will be taking over Theatre 29 for a weekend in September, and feature short films, horror films, and even a superhero film.
Founded by Twentynine Palms based filmaker couple Graham Kolbeins and Jonathan Andre Culliton, they say:
“There’s nothing like this that exists here. There’s a community that’s striving for representation, they want entertainment that reflects their lives. And we’re trying to bring that to the area.”
Culliton added, “The hi-desert is a natural place to make films, so why not watch them here as well. We’ve got an amazing slate of films that represents all facets of the queer community, and some amazing curated programming. 30 films including three features. “
The event is three days of queer cinema and activities beginning with the world premier of “Papi’s Pregnant.” Highlights from the festival include the world premier of “Willa Justice: Drag Queen Private Eye, directed by Culliton and starring iconic hi-desert drag queen Lady Chilane. An award-winning documentary about Joshua Tree’s Beauty Bubble hair saloon is scheduled, along with a special screening of director Vera Drew’s now-infamous “The People’s Joker.” The event will wrap up with a gala presentation of the “Coyote Courage Award” to actor Vico Ortiz, known for their role on “Our Flag Means Death.”
Kholbeins said of the honor, “We wanted to create an award that would celebrate an honor a trailblazing performer or creator in our community. Vico Ortiz is someone that we’ve seen doing some really amazing work.”
Culliton added, “And queer artists straddle big studio stuff and independent films. It shows the power of our queer community.
Events and parties associated with the 29 Queer Film Festival will spill out into the streets and storefront of Twentynine Palms throughout the weekend.
For a full list of screenings and events, and to purchase tickets, visit theatre29.org.
