They Can Try to Erase The Crosswalks, But They Can’t Erase Our Shine: OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Returns October 16 – November 2

In a time when rainbow crosswalks across Florida are being erased, the OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival stands taller than ever, returning for its 17th Annual Fall Edition with a bold lineup of queer storytelling, world premieres, special events, and unforgettable celebrations. Running October 16–23 in Fort Lauderdale, October 24–26 in Miami, and October 27–November 2 on OUTshine At-Home, OUTshine continues its legacy as one of the largest LGBTQ+ cultural festivals in the world,
bringing together audiences to laugh, cry, and shine in the face of adversity.

This year’s festival opens with Blue Moon, starring Ethan Hawke, a moving portrait of love, memory, and longing set on Broadway’s most historic night. The premiere takes place at Savor Cinema in Fort Lauderdale, followed by an afterparty at Masa & More. From there, OUTshine moves through two vibrant Spotlight nights, featuring The Children of Silverstreet and The Little Sister, both followed by a lively celebration at J.Marks. At the midway point, audiences will gather at Regal Dania Pointe for the Centerpiece presentation of The Captive, where survival and freedom take center stage in a story of Miguel de Cervantes, followed by a catered afterparty at Allura MD Aesthetics + Wellness. The festival will close with Jimpa, starring John Lithgow, a heartfelt family drama set in Amsterdam, screening at Silverspot in downtown Miami with a festive afterparty in partnership with Miami Film Festival to cap the Fall Edition.

Beyond these marquee screenings, OUTshine packs its schedule with special events and community favorites. The popular Cocktails & Cinema™ series returns with Four Stars, Bear Week Diaries, and a 25th anniversary screening of Psycho Beach Party, complete with a retro-themed patio bash. The Shorts programs—Men’s, Ladies’, and the Best of Shorts compilation—bring together powerful and diverse stories that highlight the creativity and complexity of LGBTQ+ filmmakers.

The Fall Edition will feature 55+ films with 21 premieres from more than 25 countries, underscoring OUTshine’s commitment to global queer cinema. Highlights include the World Premiere of Red Light (a local production), the International Premiere of Tethered Wings, and North American Premieres of Brown, Girls & Boys, Four Stars, Out Of Love, and Away. East Coast Premieres of Newborn, Only Good Things, 3670, Army of Lovers, My Heaven Your Hell, and Body Blow. Together, these films create a kaleidoscope of stories that span continents, cultures, and identities, ensuring OUTshine continues to serve as a platform for the voices and visions our community needs most.

“Florida’s rainbow crosswalks may be under attack, but OUTshine reminds us that our stories, our culture, and our community can never be erased,” said Mark Gilbert. “Now more than ever, it is vital to support LGBTQ+ and arts organizations that create spaces where we are seen, heard, and celebrated. OUTshine isn’t just a film festival—it’s a beacon of resilience and visibility in a time when both are urgently needed.”

“This year’s lineup is one of our most dynamic yet—21 premieres, films from more than 25 countries, and stories that are both deeply personal and universally resonant,” added Joe Biancio [Programming Director]. “Whether audiences come for the groundbreaking dramas, the joyful romances, or the bold new voices, they’ll leave reminded of why queer cinema matters now more than ever.”

Tickets and passes for OUTshine’s Fall Edition go on sale to the general public Friday, September 26 at OUTshineFilm.com, with full program details and trailers available at outshinefilm.com/program.

The OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival is made possible through the generous support of The Warten Foundation, Miami Dade County, Miami Beach, OurFund Foundation, Broward County Cultural Division, Gilead, Comcast, Google, Paradigm Cinemas, Regal, Tito’s Vodka, and many more community and media partners.

Ticket subscription packages and individual tickets starting at $15. OUTshine passholders and Producer Circle members receive priority advance ticket purchase opportunities. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit outshinefilm.com.