We are a film and media organisation dedicated to showcasing and promoting LGBTQ+ stories, aiming to expand their reach and impact. Our organisation is driving a range of exciting projects designed to entertain, educate, and inspire.
Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival
At the heart of our initiatives is the annual film festival, a highly anticipated event that celebrates the very best in queer cinema. With a diverse selection of films from around the world, Iris is home to the world’s largest LGBTQ+ short film prize – the coveted £30,000 Iris Prize. Supported by the Michael Bishop Foundation, the prize allows the winner to make their next LGBTQ+ short film here in Wales.
Best British films on Channel 4
We are proud to have a valuable partnership with Film4, which enables us to showcase our Best British programme of short films to a massive viewership of over a million. Following the initial broadcast on Channel 4, all 15 shortlisted Best British films will be promptly available available for streaming on at channel4.com after the main festival.
Iris On The Move
With Iris on the Move, our UK-wide touring program, we take our Best of Iris films on the road after the annual festival. Screenings have taken place across the UK including cities such as Bangor, Belfast, Bournemouth, Liverpool, Manchester, Plymouth, and more. Together, we ensure that these powerful films reach diverse communities far and wide.
DOCUMENTARY FILM FINANCE FUND
Our Documentary Film Finance Fund sponsored by FROOT and Aberystwyth University invests £20,000 annually in a British documentary, providing crucial funding to bring compelling stories to life.
Community
Our community work, funded by the generous support of the Lottery Community Fund, has resulted in the creation of 50 impactful short films. We also run community outreach projects in Wales & the UK throughout the year.
Education
Iris Education is a project funded by Ffilm Cymru Wales which allows the Iris team to work with pupils from schools across Wales to tackle homophobic bullying.
Membership
Join us on this remarkable journey as we continue to champion LGBTQ+ stories, celebrate diversity, and create meaningful connections through the power of film and media. You can join the Iris Family by becoming a Member which provides exclusive benefits throughout the year!
Membership: £25 (valid for 1 year)
Iris Prize Productions
By offering the Iris Prize which – at £30,000 – is the world’s largest LGBTQ+ short film prize, Iris supports the development of up and coming filmmaking talent. Each year, the winning filmmaker of the coveted Iris Prize is invited back to the UK to make a new film with the support of the Iris Prize team.
