INTRODUCTION
Have you ever dreamed of launching your very own film festival?
Whether you’re an ardent supporter of queer films, a recent physics graduate contemplating a shift to the film industry, or simply looking to expand your appreciation for LGBTQ+ cinema, there is something for you in this workshop.
This workshop offers a unique opportunity to delve into these themes by presenting the inspiring journey behind the creation of Queer Wave, the Cyprus LGBTQIA+ Film Festival.
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STRUCTURE
The workshop will provide an in-depth look at the following topics:
– The critical reasons for establishing a film festival.
– The significance of publicly sharing queer cinema.
– A comprehensive introduction to Queer Wave: the Cyprus LGBTQIA+ Film Festival.
– Practical insights on how to organize, set up, and cultivate a festival sustainably over time.
– Key elements that define a festival’s queer identity.
– An exploration of queer film programming, emphasizing the concept of curation as a form of care.
– Innovative thoughts on how we can infuse queerness into various aspects of the industry, including production, storytelling, and filmmaking techniques.
The session will culminate in an engaging open discussion and Q&A with participants, allowing for a wide range of topics to be explored.
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REGISTRATION
This workshop targets a diverse array of individuals in the film industry, including filmmakers, producers, curators, programmers, organizers, and distributors.
To secure your spot, please complete this online form by 12:00 noon (GMT+7) on Wednesday, 20 November. Successful applicants will receive confirmation on 21 November.
For those outside of Hanoi, virtual participation is also available, as the workshop instructor will be joining from Europe.
Language: English.
While there is no fee to attend the workshop, participants will need to cover any associated costs for their attendance.
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ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Diego Armando Aparicio Elia (b. 1993) is a talented Cypriot-Salvadoran film professional with a wealth of experience in the industry. He holds the esteemed position of founder and artistic director of Queer Wave: the Cyprus LGBTQIA+ Film Festival. After graduating with a physics degree from Imperial College London in 2016, Diego transitioned into the film world, beginning his journey by serving on the jury for Giornate degli Autori at the Venice International Film Festival in 2018. Following this, he contributed to the Giornate programming team as a pre-selector for five consecutive editions. His impressive career spans production and direction roles across several international co-productions, including acclaimed feature films and limited series that have debuted at prestigious events such as the Venice Film Festival, Cannes Critics’ Week, and the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. Diego is a well-respected participant in various esteemed programs, including the Atelier for Young Festival Managers and the Future of Film Festivals Forum. In 2021, he was honored as one of the 20 global finalists for the Commonwealth Youth Awards. Diego also served on the selection panel for the LUX Audience Award in 2022 and the jury for the Berlinale Teddy Award in 2024. He is a proud member of the European Film Academy.
Queer Wave is a pioneering initiative, serving as the Cyprus LGBTQIA+ Film Festival. The festival made its debut through a pilot online edition in 2020, born from the urgent need for community connection during periods of social isolation. Its long-term ambition is to celebrate, empower, challenge, and stimulate meaningful dialogues both within queer circles and beyond, fostering cultural exchange through cinema and the arts. Since the successful conclusion of its 5th edition in 2024, Queer Wave has proudly showcased over 200 local premieres of vibrant LGBTQIA+ titles from around the globe. While the festival primarily operates in Nicosia, it has ventures south and north of the green line, creating connections in the buffer zone and extending its influence beyond the capital, with the mission of uniting communities—one film at a time.
What inspired Diego Armando Aparicio Elia to create the Queer Wave Film Festival, and how does it aim to amplify marginalized voices in cinema?
**Interview with Diego Armando Aparicio Elia: Founder and Artistic Director of Queer Wave Film Festival**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Diego! We’re excited to chat about the upcoming workshop on launching a film festival, especially one that focuses on LGBTQIA+ cinema. Can you tell us why you felt the need to create Queer Wave, the Cyprus LGBTQIA+ Film Festival?
**Diego:** Thank you for having me! The creation of Queer Wave stemmed from a desire to amplify voices that are often marginalized in the mainstream film industry. I saw the incredible potential for queer stories to resonate with audiences and inspire change. The festival not only highlights these narratives but also fosters a community where everyone can come together to celebrate diversity and inclusivity.
**Editor:** That’s admirable! For those attending the workshop, what are some critical elements you’ll be discussing regarding how to successfully establish and maintain a film festival?
**Diego:** We’ll cover a lot! First, we’ll examine the foundational reasons for starting a film festival—aiming to create spaces for queer cinema and community engagement. We’ll also look into practical insights on organizing a festival sustainably and discuss the importance of curation as a form of care, which is vital for defining the festival’s queer identity.
**Editor:** It sounds like a comprehensive session! Can you elaborate a bit on the significance of publicly sharing queer cinema and its impact?
**Diego:** Absolutely! Sharing queer cinema publicly is essential for visibility. It creates opportunities for filmmakers to tell their stories and connects those stories to wider audiences. It also fosters understanding and empathy, allowing viewers to engage with experiences outside of their own. This visibility can challenge stigmas and change perceptions, which is particularly vital in societies where queer identities are still marginalized.
**Editor:** The connection between film and activism is so strong. I’m curious: How do you envision the role of queerness in the broader film industry evolving, based on the discussions in your workshop?
**Diego:** I believe that queerness can infuse all aspects of filmmaking—production, storytelling, and even technical techniques. By embracing diverse perspectives and innovative storytelling methods, we can shift the industry toward a more inclusive model that champions underrepresented voices. My hope is that participants leave the workshop feeling empowered to inject these ideas into their work.
**Editor:** That’s inspiring! The workshop seems open to a wide audience. What tips would you give to someone who may be new to the film industry but passionate about queer cinema?
**Diego:** My biggest tip is to get involved. Attend screenings, engage with local and online communities, and don’t hesitate to reach out to established filmmakers and festival organizers. Building connections is key. The film industry is collaborative, and there’s always room for fresh perspectives and new voices—even if you’re just starting on your journey.
**Editor:** Thank you for such insightful thoughts, Diego! Lastly, how can interested individuals register for the workshop, and is there anything in particular they should prepare ahead of time?
**Diego:** Registration is simple! Interested participants can fill out an online form by November 20 to secure their spot. Since there are no fees for attending, I encourage everyone to come with an open mind and any questions they might have about starting their own film festival. I’m looking forward to an engaging discussion with everyone!
**Editor:** Thank you so much for your time, Diego. We’re looking forward to the workshop and the powerful discussions it will undoubtedly spark!
