Wire Magazine Issue 3.2024 Miami Beach Pride Special Issue

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

4. PHOTO ALBUMS: WINTER PARTY FESTIVAL

Check out the hot men in our Winter Party Festival Photo Albums on pages 4 and 20.

5. ARTS NEWSIE: MRS. DOUBTFIRE BROADWAY MUSICAL

The Broadway Musical Mrs. Doubtfire, starring the beloved Scottish nanny, is coming to the Broward Center.

10. COVER MODEL: JOSEPH KIRSON

Meet sexy cover model Joseph Kirson with beautiful photos taken by Antony Kozz.

13. COVER STORY: 16TH MIAMI BEACH PRIDE

Read our preview of the 16th Miami Beach Pride and get ready to celebrate our LGBTQ community.

16. ARTS & CULTURE: 41ST MIAMI FILM FESTIVAL

The Miami Film Festival will screen 12 feature and documentary films exploring LGBTQIA+ stories.

18. OUR COMMUNITY: 26TH OUTSHINE LGBTQ+ FILM FESTIVAL MIAMI

Check out our sneak peek of the OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami and some of its best films.

PHOTO BY ANTONY KOZZ. @ANTONYKOZZ

By Rafa Carvajal

BROADWAY MUSICAL ARTS

The Broadway Musical Mrs. Doubtfire , starring the beloved Scottish nanny, is coming to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts April 9-21. Rob McClure will reprise his Tony-nominated Broadway performance as Mrs. Doubtfire alongside co-star and real life wife Maggie Lakis. In the show, unemployed actor Daniel Hillard creates his alter ego of the lovable Scottish nanny Euphegenia Doubtfire to stay in his kids’ lives, leading to lots of laughs and lessons about love and life. This family-friendly, hilarious comedic musical is a must-see show directed by four-time Tony Award® winner Jerry Zaks.

Wire Magazine sat down with cast member Jonathan Hoover to preview Mrs. Doubtfire .

Rafa Carvajal: Why should our readers see Mrs. Doubtfire ?

Jonathan Hoover: Readers should see Mrs. Doubtfire because it is truly one of the funniest nights you can have at the theatre. This is the kind of show that helps you forget that bad day you had yesterday and puts a smile on your face.

RC: What makes Mrs. Doubtfire such a funny Broadway musical?

JH: I mean, the script is full of well-written jokes. But it’s the cast that really brings it to life. Rob McClure is a master of comedy. He milks every laugh that can be found in the script.

RC: What is the best part of your role in the cast of Mrs. Doubtfire ?

JH: I love being Chef Louis. It’s fun to have a feature in one of the best numbers in the show. Julia Child is a close second. I also cover Daniel and that is extremely fun and thrilling.

RC: How did you become a cast member in Mrs. Doubtfire ?

JH: This was actually one of the smoothest audition processes

I have had. I got invited to go a dance call through my agent. I initially said no because I am old, and my body can’t really keep up anymore. They assured me that even though I had to audition with the dancers, I was being considered for a less dance-heavy track. I had two callbacks where I did the Daniel material and that was it! ’ Easy Peasy, ’ as they say. I wish the story was more exciting for your readers.

RC: Is there anything else you’d like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

All I will say is that if you want to forget your troubles, nominated Broadway actor take a show tailor-made for

Photos by Joan Marcus. Provided by Mrs. Doubtfire

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including: Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

dofetilide

rifampin

any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you: Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection. Have any other health problems.

Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-thecounter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including: Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY. Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat. Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

ELIAS SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY

Listen to REAL STORIES being told by REAL VOICES.

No matter where life takes you, Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. #1 PRESCRIBED

Person featured takes BIKTARVY and is compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and at BIKTARVY.com.

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

SEE YOU AT MIAMI BEACH PRIDE, OUTSHINE FILM FESTIVAL AND MIAMI FILM FESTIVAL!

This month’s special issue previews two LGBTQ events that many Wire Magazine readers love to attend every year. Our cover story will help you get ready to celebrate ‘Pride, Progress, Perseverance’ together as a community during the 16th Miami Beach Pride taking place April 4-14. You can attend loads of fabulous events, some new and others that we love every year. We interview Bruce Horwich, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Miami Beach Pride, and DJ Alex Acosta, the closing DJ Sunday, April 14th on the HealthyMD Dance Stage, to get the scoop on this year’s Pride celebrations.

Our Community is about the 26th OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami, which will celebrate queer culture with 55 internationally acclaimed features and shorts, including premieres and documentaries to inspire, entertain, and educate filmgoers April 18-28. This year, the Festival also includes a new Latin Spotlight featuring men’s and women’s films, a panel for aspiring filmmakers and free Uber rides to and from select film screenings.

Whether you went to the Winter Party Festival or not, check out our Festival photo albums with lots of hot guys who danced into the night at The Beach Party and Fantasy Island at M2. The 2024 Winter Party Festival was attended by thousands of guys from the United States and around the world. It was truly a great time.

Arts Newsie tells you about the Broadway Musical Mrs. Doubtfire, starring the beloved Scottish nanny, which is coming to the Broward Center for the Performing Arts April 9-21. Rob McClure is going to reprise his Tony-nominated Broadway performance as Mrs. Doubtfire. We interview cast member Jonathan Hoover who plays the role of Chef Louis on the show.

Arts & Culture provides you a sneak peek of the 41st Miami Film Festival, taking place April 5-14, and screening a diverse lineup of 12 feature and documentary films exploring LGBTQIA+ themes, stories, and experiences, each offering a unique lens into our community.

Last, and certainly not least, enjoy the beautiful photos of our sexy cover model Joseph Kirson taken by Antony Kozz!

See you at Miami Beach Pride, OUTshine Film Festival, Miami Film Festival, and Mrs. Doubtfire

Cheers,

Rafa Carvajal Publisher & Editor in Chief rafa@wiremag.com

JOSEPH KIRSON

Rafa Carvajal: Where are you from and where do you live now?

Joseph Kirson: I am from Coral Springs, Florida, and I live in Pompano Beach now.

RC: What is your profession?

JK: My profession at the moment is selling and installing home security.

RC: What are your top 3 exercises?

JK: Incline chest press, lateral shoulder raises, and squats.

RC: What is your favorite food?

JK: There are many great foods so choosing one is difficult especially since my father is a chef. If I had to choose one, it would be a ribeye cooked medium rare.

By Rafa Carvajal

Photos by Antony Kozz Instagram @antonykozz

RC: What do you enjoy the most about modeling for photography?

JK: Is that you could be anyone during a shoot. The creative aspect is what makes it so fun, and it never gets dull or boring.

RC: What is your favorite sport?

JK: Football.

RC: What is your favorite hobby?

JK: Playing games in my free time.

RC: What your social media handle?

JK: My Instagram is josephkirson.

LET’S CELEBRATE PRIDE, PROGRESS, PERSEVERANCE DURING MIAMI BEACH PRIDE

By Rafa Carvajal | Model Photo By Antony Kozz. @antonykozz | Other Photos Provided By Miami Beach Pride

Let’s get ready to celebrate ‘Pride, Progress, Perseverance’ together as a community during the 16th Miami Beach Pride taking place April 4-14. You can attend loads of fabulous events, some new and others that we love every year. Some of these events will include the Family Picnic at Pride Park on Sunday, April 7 at 10 a.m., Pride Movie Night at 1212 Lincoln Road on Sunday, April 7 at 7 p.m., Queer Art Showcase at Moxy South Beach on Monday, April 8 at 6:30 p.m., Miami Beach Pride VIP Beach Affair in Lummus Park on Friday, April 12 at 7 p.m., hosted by Jessica Wild, Miami Beach Pride Festival in Lummus Park on Saturday, April 13 at 12 p.m. and on Sunday, April 14 after the Parade, and Miami Beach Pride Parade down Ocean Drive on Sunday, April 14 at 12 p.m.

I sat down with Bruce Horwich, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Miami Beach Pride, and DJ Alex Acosta, the closing DJ Sunday, April 14th on the HealthyMD Dance Stage, to preview the 16th Miami Beach Pride.

Rafa Carvajal: Why is it so important to come together as a community for Miami Beach Pride?

Bruce Horwich: We must remain visible, and a big part of Miami Beach Pride is showcasing our diversity as a community while uniting in a safe space to celebrate being our authentic selves. Florida remains challenging legislatively and it’s important that we support each other and foster a spirit of unity in order to work to change these harmful laws.

RC: What does Pride mean to you?

BH: To me, Pride is an annual reminder that we cannot take for granted all of the progress that has been made over the last several decades, as those freedoms can so easily be taken away. It’s a reminder of the joy our community has in having the courage to be exactly who they are. It’s also an opportunity for those who are questioning or struggling to have a place where they can feel like they belong. Each year I learn something new and I’m so grateful for those experiences.

RC: What can attendees expect from this year's Miami Beach Pride?

BH: We have another full slate of events ranging from our Miss Miami Beach Pride pageant which always has showstopping performances from our amazing local drag queens to our Queer Art Showcase at the Moxy South Beach, as well as our annual Social Justice Night where we talk about the most pressing issues our community faces. We are bringing back our Family Picnic for the second

“Pride is an annual reminder that we cannot take for granted all of the progress that has been made over the last several decades, as those freedoms can so easily be taken away.” - Bruce Horwich

year in a row and this year adds a partnership with the Humane Society for an adoption event! It’s a space for ALL families to enjoy fun activities for the kids and a great way to spend an afternoon. Of course, our two-day Festival is packed with entertainment and this year's Grand Marshals are an all-star lineup with Billy Porter, Lisa Rinna, and June Diane Raphael.

RC: What are you looking forward to the most about this year's Miami Beach Pride?

BH: I’m looking forward to seeing the amazing crowds that come out year after year as it’s an important reminder that we do this for our community. The programming is an exceptional undertaking from a small group of committed volunteers and hard-working staff. Seeing the fruits of everyone’s efforts and 170,000 people enjoy themselves is one of the most gratifying parts of being involved in this non-profit.

RC: What's new for this year's Miami Beach Pride?

BH: Our theme this year is ‘Pride. Progress. Perseverance.’ and we’ve developed a unique exhibit on giant panels for people to walk through to see on the beach to understand more about LGBTQ history around the world. There will be some names you recognize and some that are new and it’s an intensely visually and experiential way to honor those that were trailblazers and fought to advance our rights. I sincerely

hope everyone goes and checks it out on 12th Street as they come into the Festival.

RC: Is there anything else you would like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

BH: One of the best things you can do is come out to our events! Please check out miamibeachpride.com for schedules and we hope to see you in Lummus Park on April 13-14! We’ve been able to keep it FREE for anyone who would like to come experience it whether you’ve been coming for many years or it’s your very first Pride.

Lisa Rinna

Billy Porter. Photo by Franz Szony

Rafa Carvajal: Why do you think it is important to celebrate Miami Beach Pride together as a community?

DJ Alex Acosta: Due to the current political climate, and how many attacks our community has gotten, it ’ s important that we stay together, and show to the world that we are a united front, and we ’ll keep on fighting as one front.

RC: What does Pride mean to you?

AA: It ’s a celebration for every one of us, our loved ones who support us, and allies who stand behind us. Also, it ’ s a day for us to remember those who did the early work and fought for our rights, so that younger generations get to live free and safe. There is still a lot of work for us to do, but the more we stay united, the stronger we ’ll be.

RC: What can Miami Beach Pride attendees expect from your DJing performance?

AA: The perfect moment to forget about it all, feel proud of who you are, and be happy. Music is everything.

RC: What type of sets are you planning for Miami Beach Pride?

AA: My sets are always unpredictable, because I like to read the crowd. The only thing I can tell you is that it ’ll be a unique and unforgettable one.

RC: What are you looking forward to the most about DJing during this year ’s Miami Beach Pride?

AA: Seeing the crowd that will join us, and dance freely. And for them to leave with a smile on their faces.

RC: Is there anything else you would like to share with Wire Magazine readers?

Thank you for the Q&A, and to everyone, follow me on my socials @DJAlexAcosta everywhere, and I hope to see you all soon at a dancefloor nearby. And please, DON ’T STOP THE MUSIC!

DJ Alex Acosta

Jessica Wild

By Rafa Carvajal

THE 41ST MIAMI FILM FESTIVAL EXPLORES LGBTQIA+ THEMES

The 41st Miami Film Festival (MFF), taking place April 5-14, will feature a diverse lineup of 12 feature and documentary films exploring LGBTQIA+ themes, stories, and experiences, each offering a unique lens into our community. It is also important to highlight that James Woolley, the new executive director of the Miami Film Festival, is a member of our LGBTQ community.

The North American premiere of Lady Like , a poignant documentary on Lady Camden's journey from RuPaul ’ s Drag Race fame to confronting her traumatic past leads the films lineup. This premiere will include a Q&A with director Luke Willis and Lady Camden at the Miami Beach Bandshell (a first-time venue for MFF), that aligns with Miami Beach Pride Week for a celebration of drag culture. (Friday, April 12, 7:15 p.m.)

MFF is also proud to present the following films, some of which include post-screening discussions with filmmakers and film subjects:

Fallen Fruit : Chris Molina’s debut feature navigates the complexities of adulthood through Alex ’s eyes, offering an intimate portrayal of queer relationships in Miami. (Friday, April 5, 7:30 p.m. at Coral Gables Art Cinema; Wednesday, April 10, 9:30 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 11).

The Queen of My Dreams : Fawzia Mirza explores identity and acceptance in a story that intertwines Bollywood fantasy with the reality of a Pakistani Canadian lesbian. (Saturday, April 6, 5:30 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 12).

Vera and the Pleasure of Others : A provocative tale by Romina Tamburello about a teenager ’ s clandestine exploration of sexuality. (Saturday, April 6, 6:00 p.m. at Koubek Center).

All The Silence : Diego Del Rio ’s film dives into the deaf community, highlighting the challenges and resilience of a child of deaf adult (CODA) navigating her own hearing loss. (Saturday, April 6, 8:00 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 16).

The Shadow of the Sun : Miguel Angel Ferrer ’s heartfelt narrative on a young deaf man’s musical ambitions, emphasizing perseverance and inclusion. (Sunday, April 7, 3:00 p.m. and Monday, April 8, 7:45 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 12).

Days of Happiness : Chloé Robichaud ’s tale of love, music, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of Montreal ’s classical music scene. (Sunday, April 7, 5:30 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 16; Sunday, April 14, 12:30 p.m. at Coral Gables Art Cinema).

Salt Water : A profound exploration of forbidden love and redemption by Steven Morales Pineda, set in a Colombian coastal town. (Monday, April 8, 7:00 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 11).

Toll : Carolina Markowicz ’ s dark comedy addressing societal norms and the quest for acceptance, through a toll booth attendant ’s unconventional journey. (Wednesday, April 10, 7:00 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 11).

Happy Clothes : A Film About Patricia Field: Michael Selditch’ s tribute to the iconic costume designer ’ s influential career and unique vision. (Friday, April 12, 7:00 p.m. at Regal South Beach 17; Sunday, April 14, 3:15 p.m. at Silverspot Cinema 12).

George Dureau: New Orleans Artist : A documentary by Jarret Lofstead and Sergio Andres Lobo-Navia celebrating the life and work of the renowned painter and photographer. (Friday, April 12, 9:15 p.m. at O Cinema South Beach).

Merchant Ivory : Stephen Soucy ’s definitive tribute to the legendary filmmaking partnership, featuring insights from James Ivory and notable collaborators. (Saturday, April 13, 12:30 p.m. at Coral Gables Art Cinema).

Visit miamifilmfestival.com to explore over 180 films from 30 plus countries in this year’s program, view details about all events and parties, and purchase your tickets.

Lady Like Documentary Screenshot

By Rafa Carvajal

26TH OUTSHINE LGBTQ+ FILM FESTIVAL MIAMI

The 26th OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami will celebrate queer culture with 55 internationally acclaimed features and shorts, including premieres and documentaries to inspire, entertain, and educate filmgoers April 18-28. This year, the Festival also includes a new Latin Spotlight featuring men’s and women’s films, a panel for aspiring filmmakers and free Uber rides to and from select film screenings. The films will screen at Silverspot Cinema Miami (300 Southeast 3rd Street) April 18-24 and at Regal South Beach (1120 Lincoln Road Mall, Miami Beach) April 25-28. In addition, several parties and special events will take place at different locations in Miami. Be sure to visit outshinefilm.com to review the full schedule of films, parties, and special events. Also, April 18-24, the City of Miami is offering Free Uber Rides to and from Silverspot Cinema (within a 25-mile radius) so you can more easily attend OUTshine’s films and special events!

According to Director of Programming Joe Bilancio, “We are excited to unveil this year’s engaging OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami lineup featuring a reimagined and more accessible experience of incredible premieres, filmmaker instruction and more parties. This year’s groundbreaking films hail from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Ukraine, Spain, Austria and beyond… all with the goal of bringing us together in universal love and acceptance by promoting tolerance, equality, understanding and empathy.”

The Opening Night film Turtles ( Les Tortues ) will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at Silverspot Cinema Miami, followed by the Afterparty at The W Hotel Miami. The Latin Spotlight night takes place Saturday, April 20 at Silverspot Cinema Miami, with four films from Latin America starting at 8 p.m. and including the North American premiere of Blue Lights ( Luces Azules ). Two nights of Cocktails & Cinema will celebrate local filmmakers, cast and crews ranging from students to seasoned veterans of the industry at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, April 22, and Tuesday, April 23, at Silverspot Cinema Miami.

The Men’s Spotlight slice-of-life comedy film F.L.Y. will be screened Saturday, April 27 at Regal South Beach. Other notable Festival films include the North American premieres of Lessons of Tolerance , The Fisherman’s Daughter ( La Estrategia Del Mero ) and Sunflower, the Southeast premiere of Gondola, the Trans-focused films Close To You starring Elliott Page and The Summer with Carmen, the Queer Festival premiere of the award-winning Riley , and the documentary Mad About The Boy: The Noel Coward Story narrated by Alan Cumming.

The Closing Night film, starting at 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 28, at Regal South Beach, is the American premiere of Mascarpone: The Rainbow Cake ( Maschile Plural ). The South Beach Group Hotel Closing Night Party will follow at the Miami Beach Women's Club (2401 Pine Tree Drive, Miami Beach).

OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival Miami: OUTrageous, OUTspoken, and OUTstanding.

BLUE LIGHTS (LUCES AZULES)

Director: Lucas Santa Ana. Argentina, 2023

This emotionally charged ensemble piece unfolds during Alejandro’s 70th birthday celebration, where friends and family members gather for an unforgettable night that will redefine their relationships. As secrets surface, tensions simmer and truths emerge, Blue Lights explores the intricacies of love, loss, friendship, and the evolving dynamics of gay and lesbian relationships in a changing world. With stellar performances and a poignantly insightful narrative, the film offers a nuanced reflection on life’s complexities and the ties that bind us.

Photos Provided by OUTshine LGBTQ+ Film Festival

F.L.Y.

Directors: Rafael Albarran and Trent Kendrick. U.S.A., 2023

When two ex-boyfriends (Max and Rafael), who haven’t seen each other in five years, reunite, the covid pandemic hits, and they’re forced to quarantine together. In the years that have passed since they last saw each other in New York, Max has built a new life in Los Angeles working as a freelance editor. Max has spent most of his free time with his new boyfriend Hunter, who’s a fitness instructor, while Rafael has been rebuilding his identity as a non-binary human who’s excited to explore the art of drag with hopes of becoming a drag superstar. F.L.Y. celebrates living your truth, and trusting the journey it takes you on.

LESSONS OF TOLERANCE (UROKY TOLERANTNOSTI)

Director: Arkasha Nepytaliuk. Ukraine, 2023

A Ukrainian provincial schoolteacher who wants to strengthen her family bond and to pay off some loans, thinks she has found a way to do both. She persuades her husband and children to register for ‘Lessons of Tolerance,’ a government program on acceptance. The family takes the bait of favorable preferential terms and enrolls in the program. According to the regulations, a gay person settles in their apartment to show them that LGBTQ people are just like everyone else. In this satire, the ‘chosen’ family will learn a lot more than tolerance. Lessons of Tolerance is one of the first Ukrainian films exploring the topic of LGBTQ+ rights, discrimination, and human rights in general and is a lot of fun and laughs!

MASCARPONE: THE RAINBOW CAKE (MASCHILE PLURAL)

Director: Alessandro Guida. Italy, 2024

After three years, Antonio and Luca see each other for the first time after their best friend Denis’ death. Luca, who has hit rock bottom, has been lucky enough to meet Tancredi, his current boyfriend, while Antonio has focused on his work, so much so that he is now a well-known chef in a pastry boutique. It is clear that there is still a special relationship between the two, but Antonio mistakes Luca’s affection for something more and does everything he can to ruin his relationship with Tacrendi. Will Antonio learn to let go of the past in order to fully experience what the future has to offer him? With a beautiful cast, a beautiful story, and intoxicating bakery goods, Mascarpone: The Rainbow Cake builds off the original to a sexy and compelling sophomore feature.

TURTLES (LES TORTUES)

Director: David Lambert. Belgium/Canada, 2023

Since Thom and Henri met 35 years ago, their love for each other has never faltered. The seemingly perfect life they had built in Brussels started to go awry when Henri retired from being a police officer. Now, Henri’s days seem to stretch endlessly, each one as bland as the next, while his feelings for Thom are fading fast. They drift away from each other a little more each day, to the point that their house has become a battleground. Thom’s love for Henri remains strong though and he is not ready to give up. He will do anything to save his relationship and rekindle their love, even if that means asking Henri for a divorce. Although the subject of divorce is no laughing matter, Turtles is alive with dry humor and joyous moments.

WINTER PARTY FESTIVAL: THE BEACH PARTY

PHOTOS BY J.R. DAVIS | WIREMAG.COM/PHOTOS