Optus supports The Queer Frontier by starting with Yes

In the words of Optus, “it starts with yes (yeah or yassss)”. It’s an attitude that unlocks a world of possibilities. A world where when we stand united, and choose to create change, we can make great things happen. Queer Screen is proud to be supported by Optus as our Presenting Partner for this year’s Mardi Gras Film Festival.

In the words of our co-chairs;

“We are ecstatic about welcoming Optus on board as a Presenting Partner for the next three years and look forward to seeing Optus employees and customers at the Mardi Gras Film Festival this month,” Queer Screen co-chair Cheryl Kavanagh said.

“We see our core values – diversity, inspiration, creativity, inclusiveness and pride – reflected in Optus’ Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging strategy,” added co-chair Abs Osseiran. “While the aims of the Optus LGBTQIA+ employee network, called Express Yourself, are undoubtedly aligned with our vision to celebrate queer identities on screen!”

Commenting on the sponsorship for the Mardi Gras Film Festival 2022, Optus managing director marketing and revenue Matt Williams said, “It is thrilling to announce our support of Mardi Gras and Sydney WorldPride 2023 at a time when embracing and celebrating diversity and individuality is more important than ever.

“Optus is standing proud in our support of the LGBTQIA+ community and wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe Mardi Gras festival, and we can’t wait to connect with the community at Mardi Gras Film Festival and the Parade.”

For the Mardi Gras Film Festival 2022, Optus is our Presenting Partner, and are co-presenting 13 films in our program! Find out more about a selection of these fantastic films and where and when to watch them below.

Wildhood  Opening Night Gala

Two-spirit Mi’kmaw teen Link reclaims his heritage and embraces who he really is in Wildhood, a beautiful and captivating drama about empowerment and self-discovery. This film screened as our Opening Night Gala, with a packed audience and one of the stars, Phillip Forest Lewitski in attendance.

Coming To You – A powerful, insightful documentary about two mothers fighting for the rights of their children to live freely as part of the LGBTQ+ community in Korea.

A Distant Place – With flawed characters, stunning cinematography and two handsome leads, this film is a feast for the eyes and soul.

Denise Ho: Becoming the Song – Singer. Activist. Queer icon. This documentary follows Cantopop star Denise Ho’s career as a singer to becoming a political and human rights activist in Hong Kong.

Invisible: Gay Women in Southern Music – With insights from country music icons including Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, Chely Wright, and a chance to get behind the scenes and witness a world of hidden figures unknown until now, this documentary is impactful and at times heartbreaking but also brimming with charisma and great country tunes – made all the better knowing they were created by queer songwriters.

Leading Ladies – One of the most prolific queer female directors working today, Ruth Caudeli (‘Eva and Candela’ MGFF19, ‘Second Star on the Right’ QSSF20) returns with her compelling third feature.

Mascarpone – This gentle Italian drama brings together all the ingredients we love – a satisfying story of self- discovery, some very hot men, and baking!