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QueerFrames Lab Expands to Southeast Asia
24 Sep
Summary
- Lab's 4th edition brings queer filmmakers to Southeast Asia.
- Eight fiction feature projects focus on queer narratives.
- Initiative supports emerging queer, trans, and nonbinary filmmakers.
The QueerFrames Screenwriting Lab has expanded its reach to Southeast Asia for its fourth annual edition, welcoming storytellers from India, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and the diaspora. This initiative supports emerging queer, trans, and nonbinary filmmakers.
The 2026 cohort comprises eight fiction feature projects, each deeply exploring themes of queerness. These scripts delve into identity, intimacy, belonging, and freedom through various genres, including love stories, thrillers, and dramedies.
Launched in 2023, QueerFrames has supported 22 filmmakers. The program combines craft-focused development with mentorship from established industry professionals, guiding participants from initial drafts to market-ready projects.
The 2026 edition commenced with an in-person retreat in Hua Hin, Thailand, from September 23 to October 2, 2026. This was followed by an Industry Day in Bangkok on October 3, a collaborative effort with the French Embassy and Alliance Française Bangkok. Virtual sessions will continue until March 2027.
Netflix and the French Institute in India are key financial backers for this edition, with additional support from Purin Film Fund and Momo Film Co. Esteemed mentors and instructors, including Anup Poudel and Tricia Tuttle, are guiding the selected filmmakers.
