It’s been 25 years since the Inside Out LGBT Film Festival made its debut, and this quarter century milestone proves that the caliber and representation from a wide spectrum of topics continues to flourish. The team behind this festival work hard to make it happen, and it shows with creative and diverse programming, and of course the not-to-be missed parties. Although it’s difficult to narrow down to a short list from more than 100 films that all deserve to be seen, here’s a couple recommendations worth your time.

Limited Partnership

This documentary follows the lives of Richard Sullivan and Tony Adams, the first same-sex couple to be wed in the United States back in 1975. A county clerk in Boulder, Colorado found a loop hole in legislation and took it upon herself to grant four male couples a marriage license. The main reason for their marriage was so that Tony, an Australian citizen, could be granted green card citizenship in the United States. More than 40 years pass, and the couple remained fighting for this right. The story is not only a story of long lasting love, but one of a political trail of gay rights over four decades. These two men truly were the pioneers for where we are at today.

Screening, May 26th 515PM

Portrait of a Serial Monogamist

Written and directed by Christine Zeidler and John Mitchell, this story follows Elsie as she navigates the dating world after walking out on her stable relationship in search of something new. It’s often hilarious, in part due to cameo appearances by the queerest of queer Toronto, including Vanessa Dunn, Zoe Whitall, and  Gavin Crawford, among others. For those from the city, it’s a treat to see familiar places and faces. Both the Beaver and the Gladstone are used  as backdrops, and the music soundtrack was put together by Don Pyle, musician and music producer best known as a former member of Toronto’s eclectic band, Shadowy Men on a Shadowy Planet.

Closing Night Gala – May 31st 8pm

Fourth Man Out

Adam is your typical mid-20’s all American boy, hanging out with this frat brothers that he’s known his entire life. The four of them get up to the regular guy stuff that guys do, drinking, playing poker, vulgar talk, and chasing girls. The only difference is Adam realizes he’s  gay and has to tell his friends. Not knowing how they will react, he’s waited as long  as he can. This is a comedy that’s well acted, and plays up to a bunch of different stereotypes, more from the hetero than homo side . It’s more the others that realize they need to change their way of thinking, and what ensues is an easy to watch romp of laughs with a few tender moments  tossed in for good measure.

Screening – May 26th 930PM

Seed Money: The Chuck Holmes Story

Chuck Holmes was known worldwide in the 1980’s as one of the biggest gay porn stars. He was also a wise business person, and reinvested his profits into his own production company, Falcon Studios, which became a household name to gay men seeking out something different. His productions were filled with young, buff good looking men who engaged in a variety of sexual acts, from mild to wild.  The film is a look at the rise and demise of the porn industry prior to the instant access internet days. There are several past porn well-recognized names who make appearances throughout the film to give their personal anecdotes as well. Rated PG for the most part.

Screening – May 28th, 945PM

Drag Becomes Him

What does it take to become a national drag star persona? Follow in the heels of Jinkx Monsoon from the beginnings in small town Oregon, to the spotlight on Rupaul’s Drag Race. This documentary offers an up close and personal view of what it’s like to have a dream fulfilled. It also gives a back stage look at what goes on in the often catty trials and tribulations of drag performers. Most of all it’s an honest look at a little boy who made the big times as a big girl. A must see for those who can’t get enough Drag Race in their lives.

Screening – May 27th, 945pm

All screenings are at the TIFF Bell Lightbox, 350 King St West

Click here for a full schedule, and here for tickets.

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment, and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors, and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats. Reach out - bryen@thebuzzmag.ca