The British Council’s annual Five Films for Freedom returns from March 19–30, 2025, offering a curated selection of powerful short films that highlight LGBTQIA+ stories from around the world. In partnership with BFI Flare: London LGBTQIA+ Film Festival, the program brings together five diverse films from Indonesia, New Zealand, the USA/China, and the UK, making them available to watch for free on the British Council’s YouTube channel.
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This year marks the continuation of a decade-long tradition of sharing these global LGBTQIA+ narratives in support of equality, acceptance, and human rights. In addition to being available online, these films will also be screened in select venues across the Philippines, including the University of the Philippines Cebu (March 19), Negros Museum’s Cinematheque in Bacolod (March 21), and National Teachers College (March 24, 26–28).
This year’s lineup features a blend of heartfelt dramas, documentaries, and animated stories that explore identity, love, and the challenges of being LGBTQIA+ in diverse cultural contexts. Here are the featured films:
- Dragfox (UK) – Directed by Lisa Ott
A heartfelt animated tale about an eleven-year-old named Sam who embarks on a magical, self-discovery journey with a mischievous fox (voiced by Ian McKellen) after struggling with gender identity. - If I Make It to the Morning (USA/China) – Directed by Andre Shen
A Chinese teenager, Ziyi, spends time in New York with her aunt, but a shocking revelation shakes up her plans for the future, revealing the complexities of identity and family expectations. - NGGAK!!! (Indonesia) – Directed by Oktania Hamdani and Winner Wijaya
In this light-hearted yet poignant story, Sekar and Bebi’s online gaming and blissful relationship are threatened when Sekar’s mother attempts to set her up with a traditional partner. - We’ll Go Down in History (UK) – Directed by Cameron Richards and Charlie Tidmas
A documentary about TRUK United, a pioneering trans football club that creates a safe haven for the community while battling rising transphobia in the UK. - Wait, Wait, Now! (New Zealand) – Directed by Ramon Te Wake
A whimsical yet meaningful film about best friends Alex and Sam who raid their mums’ wardrobes to create a world of self-expression and safety, only to discover their parents may not be as unaware as they think.
These films offer a compelling window into the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals, showcasing their challenges, triumphs, and journeys of self-discovery. The program continues to promote solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community globally, emphasizing the importance of visibility, representation, and equality.
The Five Films for Freedom program is free to watch, with films available for streaming from March 19–30, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to experience these moving stories and share the message of love and acceptance using the hashtag #FiveFilmsForFreedom.
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