The Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival has been a vital platform for queer cinema for the past two decades. The festival began its anniversary celebrations on January 30, honoring film publicist Paul Smith with the prestigious Iris Prize Fellowship. This event takes place at Vue Leicester Square, a venue that underscores the festival’s commitment to celebrating cinema.
Recognizing unsung heroes in filmmaking
The Iris Prize Fellowship aims to highlight the often-overlooked champions behind the scenes who enable diverse LGBTQIA+ stories to reach audiences. Paul Smith, with over 40 years of experience in the film industry, exemplifies this vital role. His dedication to promoting LGBTQIA+ films has inspired many viewers. Despite the challenges in film marketing, he has continuously championed rich and diverse storytelling.
A legacy of dedication
As the managing director of Peccadillo Pictures and chair of the Iris Prize, Tom Abell praised Paul for his unwavering commitment to the film industry. He said, “There is no one more deserving of this honor. Paul embodies the tireless efforts of those working behind the scenes to amplify LGBTQ+ filmmakers’ voices across the UK.” Tom, having collaborated with Paul on several projects, recognizes the profound influence Paul has had in promoting diverse narratives in cinema.
Paul Smith’s reflections on recognition
Upon receiving the Iris Prize Fellowship, Paul Smith expressed his gratitude and surprise. He stated, “Throughout my extensive journey in film—whether as a viewer, writer, lecturer, or industry professional—I never anticipated that my commitment would be acknowledged in this way. A publicist often works in the shadows, yet their role is vital in conveying messages to broader audiences. I am deeply honored to receive this fellowship and have my contributions recognized.”
Looking ahead to the future
The Iris Prize Festival is set to return in 2026, celebrating its 20th edition from October 12th to October 18th. This upcoming event promises to be a grand celebration of LGBTQ+ cinema and the rich stories that emerge from this vibrant community.
Join the celebrations with Iris on the move
The festival’s initiative Iris on the Move invites community members to partake in the 20th-anniversary festivities. This year, the tour partners with the DIVA Film Festival to present a selection of lesbian-focused films that promise to engage and entertain audiences.
DIVA’s dedication to showcasing media created by and for LGBTQIA+ women and gender-diverse individuals is noteworthy. With over three decades of advocacy, DIVA remains a strong supporter of queer media, urging audiences to rally behind these essential narratives.
Additionally, DIVA has transitioned into a charitable organization, now published by the DIVA Charitable Trust. For those interested in making a difference, there are numerous ways to support the trust and ensure the continuation of queer media for generations to come.
The Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival commemorates its 20th anniversary by celebrating the significant contributions of individuals like Paul Smith, who tirelessly promote and share the richness of LGBTQ+ cinema. As the festival looks toward the future, it invites the community to partake in the celebration and support ongoing efforts in this vibrant cultural landscape.