SHORTS: QUEER TEEN SPIRIT

For the ninth year, NewFest is thrilled to collaborate with NYC Public Schools and GLAAD on a spirited shorts program curated for LGBTQ+ teens.

These dynamic and affirming films cover everything from friendship to crushes and questions of identity, giving teen audiences the chance to see themselves reflected on screen and get inspired to tell their own stories.

The in-person screening of this program on Thursday, October 22nd at 4pm is open exclusively to high school LGBTQ+ students and staff, youth organizations, and school GSAs. Registration is free.

Presented in partnership with



For GSA leaders, students, and school staff, please contact gsafilm@newfest.org with your information to register.

My Dear Watson
Dir. Jacob McKee, 12 min, USA
When he receives a mysterious love note, a teenage Sherlock Holmes must step outside of his comfort zone to uncover the identity of his secret admirer.

Eyeliner
Dir. Aisha Boudjillouli, 9 min, UK
Nina and her best friend Lily decide to steal an eyeliner, hoping that they’ve finally found their key to womanhood.

Today & Tmrw
Dir. Mariales Diaz, 12 min, USA
Two best friends, Mariah and Kimberly, navigate their after-school routine in New York City.

Gabe’s Sister
Dir. Monica Mai, 9 min, USA
Two young siblings get ready for their dad’s anniversary church service while navigating unspoken tensions in the household.

Other Girls
Dir. Ryder Scully, 13 min, USA
A young boy struggles with his sexuality and complicated feelings for his best friend.

Gloss
Dir. Leah Shore, 5 min, USA
A trans teen comes out to their mother who is struggling to reveal her own monstrous secret.

Crush.exe
Dir. Victor Torres, 14 min, USA
In 15 minutes, everybody’s crushes will be leaked to the internet—but one girl can stop it!

Lesbian Ditch Day
Dir. Olivia Cade, 15 min, USA
What starts as a rom-com-y, coming-of-age tale of two high school lesbians playing hooky reveals itself, through a fourth wall break, to be just another queerbaiting tragedy.

This screening will be followed by a Q&A.

Part of the 38th Annual New York LGBTQ+ Film Festival