QueerFrames Lab Expands to Southeast Asia, Unveils New Mentors and Cohort
The QueerFrames Screenwriting Lab, a dedicated program for emerging queer, transgender, and nonbinary filmmakers, is broadening its scope with its fourth annual installment. This expansion brings together talented storytellers from India, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Indonesia, and the diaspora, fostering a wider community of diverse voices in cinema.
The 2026 cohort will feature eight fiction feature projects, each deeply exploring queer themes. Filmmakers selected for this prestigious program include Alec Berame and Joshua Caesar Medroso from the Philippines, Saurav Mahind and Sanju Kadu from India, Minh-Anh Vo Dinh from Vietnam and Canada, Megan Teo from Singapore, Kurnia Alexander from Indonesia, and Rachel Leyco from the U.S. Their narratives explore intricate aspects of identity, personal connections, masculinity, belonging, and individual freedom, weaving these elements into a rich tapestry of love stories, thrillers, horror, and dramedies.
The 2026 edition of QueerFrames will commence with an in-person screenwriting retreat in Hua Hin, Thailand, from September 23 to October 2. Following this, an Industry Day will be held in Bangkok on October 3, organized in collaboration with the French Embassy in Thailand, Alliance Française Bangkok, and the French Regional Audiovisual Cooperation. Virtual sessions will then continue until March 2027. This year's program is generously supported by Netflix and the French Institute in India, with additional contributions from the Purin Film Fund in Thailand and Momo Film Co in Singapore.
The QueerFrames initiative serves as a crucial platform for underrepresented filmmakers, nurturing their creative visions and connecting them with a global network of industry professionals. By providing mentorship and development opportunities, the lab empowers these artists to tell their unique stories with authenticity and impact, enriching the cinematic landscape with diverse perspectives and narratives.
Ricardo Darín on 'Therapy Done Right' and Argentina's Enduring Spirit
Renowned Argentine actor Ricardo Darín discusses his latest film, the dark comedy 'Therapy Done Right,' produced by his company Kenya Films. Premiering at the San Sebastián Festival and streaming globally on Netflix, the movie explores a pragmatic psychoanalyst's unconventional methods. Darín also shares his insights into Argentina's unique relationship with psychoanalysis and the nation's resilience amidst economic and political challenges.
Mikel Gurrea on 'Saints', Victoria Luengo and Religious Art Theft
Mikel Gurrea's new film 'Saints' explores the complex character of Lali, who finds herself torn between family duty and a life of crime involving religious art theft. Gurrea, who previously worked with Victoria Luengo on 'Suro,' reunites with her for this urban drama. The narrative delves into themes of care, ambivalence, and the blurred lines between devotion and desecration, drawing inspiration from historical art thieves.
Sean Gunn Retires from Rocket Raccoon Motion Capture Due to Physical Strain
Sean Gunn, known for his on-set motion capture work as Rocket Raccoon in the 'Guardians of the Galaxy' films, has announced his retirement from the role. The actor cited the increasing physical demands and discomfort associated with contorting his body to embody the small, agile character, particularly as he has gotten older. While Bradley Cooper provided the voice, Gunn's physical portrayal was crucial to bringing Rocket to life.
QueerFrames Lab Expands to Southeast Asia, Unveils New Mentors and Cohort
The QueerFrames Screenwriting Lab, an initiative supporting queer, trans, and nonbinary filmmakers, is expanding its reach into Southeast Asia for its fourth edition. The program announced new mentors, including Isabel Sandoval, Tricia Tuttle, and Anup Poudel, and introduced a new cohort of eight filmmakers from various countries. These projects delve into themes of identity, intimacy, and personal freedom through diverse genres.
Rolf de Heer to Chair Tokyo Film Festival Jury
Renowned Australian director Rolf de Heer has been selected as the head of the international competition jury for this year's Tokyo International Film Festival. With a distinguished career spanning four decades, de Heer's appointment highlights his unique cinematic vision and marks a significant moment for Australian cinema on the global stage.
Warner Bros. Delays 'Gremlins' and DC's 'Dynamic Duo' Release Dates
Warner Bros. has announced significant delays for two of its upcoming major film releases. The third installment in the 'Gremlins' franchise, previously set for November 2027, will now premiere in October 2028. Additionally, DC Studios' animated feature 'Dynamic Duo' has been pushed back three months, moving its release to September 2028. These adjustments mark substantial shifts in the studio's theatrical calendar.