GAZE film festival has been a stalwart and driving force of LGBTQ+ representation and inclusion since 1992, and its program for emerging LGBTQ+ filmmakers, starGAZE, is now accepting applications for the 2026 iteration.
starGAZE is a programme which helps participants build important industry connections, receive a year-long mentorship from established LGBTQ+ filmmakers, and be supported by their peers. Participants also get access to special screenings and talks. Last year, the festival welcomed Russell Tovey and Alan Cumming, among many other talented filmmakers.
GAZE and the National Talent Academy encourage LGBTQ+ filmmakers to apply, especially those who are trans, non-binary, working class, from the global majority, from the Travelling community, people with disabilities, or others who face challenges in the film industry.
There are a few eligibility criteria for applying to starGAZE 2026. Applicants must live in Ireland and be working towards a debut feature-length project, a television pilot, or an online commission. You can apply if you have written, directed, or produced a short film that has been screened at a recognised film festival in the last three years, either in Ireland or multiple international festivals.
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If you are a writer, you may alternatively have had a full-length play performed by professionals in Ireland or one radio credit. You also may be eligible if your film has not screened at a festival but has received attention from LGBTQ+ communities or platforms. You can email [email protected] to discuss your eligibility.
Applications for starGAZE 2026 are open until Monday, April 20, 5pm. You can apply through this link.
GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival 2026 will take place from July 28 to August 3.
This will mark the third year of the programme designed to uplift LGBTQ+ voices in the Irish film industry. Last year’s selected participants were Billy Buckley, Eleanor Rogers, Jack Warren, Lewis Doherty, Stephen T Lally, and Venus Patel. starGAZE is supported by the National Talent Academy.
Mentors for starGAZE 2025 were Evan Horan (Lesbian Lines, Oddity, Whitetail), Colin Thornton (Four Mothers, A Date For Mad Mary), Damian McCarthy (Hokum, Oddity, Caveat), Reece Cargan (A Night Like This, Where Dragons Live), Jim Archer (Brian and Charles, Big Boys), and Prano Bailey-Bond (Censor). Previous mentors include Louise Weard, Kate Dolan, and John Butler.
© 2026 GCN (Gay Community News). All rights reserved.
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