Repression, Obsession, Possession: BFI Flare 2023

From The French Alps to the US Border

By guest writer Amelia Nancy Harvey

Known affectionately as Queer Christmas, the BFI Flare, running March 15-26, returns with a more hopeful programme; casting off the nostalgia of the post-pandemic years in favour of a forward-looking focus.

This year provided 58 features and 90 shorts to choose from, with a focus on bodies and sexuality. The storytelling this year was driven with real heart by a community coming under threat more and more each day. 

Through documentaries on hidden queer icons, body horror, coming-of-age dramas and magic realism, the annual festival explores the vast spectrum of love, sex and marriage for those both closeted and out. 

Read capsule reviews from BFI Flare of Loving Highsmith, Winter Boy, The Five Devils and Swallowed over at Journey Into Cinema.