Cinema Diverse 2019: Must-See Films at the Palm Springs LGBTQ Film Festival
The acclaimed Cinema Diverse: The Palm Springs LGBTQ Film Festival marks its 12th edition over two weekends: September 19-22 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center and September 27-28 at the Mary Pickford Theatre in Cathedral City. This event showcases original films alongside Q&A sessions with filmmakers, fostering deep audience engagement.
It powerfully reminds us that being gay, bi, trans, or queer is just one aspect of human identity—a central theme in this year's programming.
This festival celebrates world-class LGBTQ+ cinema, bringing together inspiring filmmakers, writers, directors, producers, actors, and industry professionals. Attendees leave inspired by its commitment to advancing the diverse LGBTQ+ community through compelling storytelling.
As noted on Cinema Diverse’s website: “We believe LGBTQ films and festivals are vital to our local and global communities, telling stories that reflect our origins, identities, and potential. They inform and transform our community while shifting perspectives beyond it.”
Discover 9 standout films and why they resonate:
For They Know Not What They Do
Directed by the filmmaker behind For The Bible Tells Me So, this film examines religion's impact on LGBTQ+ lives amid rising resistance post-2015 marriage equality. It shares families' stories of love and reconciliation. Why it matters: A timely message of unity in divisive times.
Screens 7:30 p.m. Thursday, September 19 at Palm Springs Cultural Center.
More Beautiful For Having Been Broken
An FBI agent grieving her mother finds unexpected connections in a ranch town with a boy in a wheelchair and his mother. Why it matters: Heartfelt tales of personal transformation captivate audiences.
Screens 7:45 p.m. Friday, September 20 at Palm Springs Cultural Center.
Cinema Diverse Short Sets
This year's shorts include the program Coming Out/Outcomes, screening at 10:45 a.m. Saturday, September 21. Why it matters: Uplifting stories in compact, powerful formats.
The Spider Mites of Jesus: The Dirt Woman Documentary
This extraordinary life story follows an individual overcoming spinal meningitis, illiteracy, and more to embrace a unique path. Why it matters: A testament to resilient, unconventional spirits.
Screens 5:45 p.m. Saturday, September 21 at Palm Springs Cultural Center.
Cohibernation
Seven gay bear couples share insights on relationships, emphasizing commitment beyond queer identity. Why it matters: Relatable truths about enduring partnerships.
Screens 3 p.m. Sunday, September 22 at Palm Springs Cultural Center.
Scream Queen: My Nightmare on Elm Street
Mark Patton reveals the backlash from A Nightmare on Elm Street 2 and his journey as a trailblazing scream queen. Why it matters: Highlights ongoing struggles for acceptance in Hollywood.
Screens 7 p.m. Friday, September 27 at Mary Pickford Theatre.
Krow’s Transformation
Krow's journey from discomfort with his assigned identity to strutting Paris Fashion Week runways. Why it matters: Inspiring tales of authentic self-realization.
Screens 3:30 p.m. Saturday, September 28 at Mary Pickford Theatre.
Herland & The Great Ride
Herland explores a 1980s lesbian-feminist community; The Great Ride celebrates aging lesbians' friendships. Why it matters: Essential, often-overlooked lesbian narratives.
Screens 5:30 p.m. Saturday, September 28 at Mary Pickford Theatre.
The Unlikely Story of the Lesbians of First Friday
In 1980s Roanoke, Virginia, a lesbian group navigates politics and advocacy. Why it matters: Chronicles determination for visibility and rights.
Screens 7:30 p.m. Saturday, September 28 at Mary Pickford Theatre.
Screenings: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs (September 19-22); Mary Pickford Theatre, 36850 Pickfair St., Cathedral City (September 27-28). Full schedule at psculturalcenter.org/filmfest.
Explore the LGBTQ+ scene in Greater Palm Springs with happy hour specials at top bars.
