CELEBRATING GLOBAL LGBTQ+ STORIES AND CARDIFF CHARM.
Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival—a global celebration of LGBTQ+ stories that brings filmmakers from around the world to Cardiff, Wales, UK. Iris is also home to the largest short film prize in the world – the coveted £40,000 Iris Prize. Supported by the Michael Bishop Foundation, the prize allows the winner to make their next LGBTQ+ short film here in Cardiff. Iris also works with Film4 to share all Best British shortlisted films (in 2024) which is streaming now on Channel 4, the UK’s biggest free streaming service. Our annual touring programme "Iris on the Move 2026" will start in February 2026 where we share the Best films from the festival with venues across the UK.
Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival (13 - 19 October, 2025)
The 19th Iris Prize Festival is almost here! From 13–19 October, Cardiff comes alive with films, stories and celebration, while Iris Online keeps the magic going across the UK until 7 November.
Discover world premieres, 13 features, and 35 international shorts competing for the £40,000 Iris Prize, with the winner announced on Sunday 19 October at BBC Cymru Wales. Best British Day, Industry Day, Community Day, Q&As, parties, and red-carpet premieres all add to a week like no other.
Iris is more than a festival — it’s a family. Join us to celebrate the very best in LGBTQ+ storytelling.
Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival programme launched 2025
• 14 programmes of short films, 13 feature films, 10 talks and much more to enchant the audience f
From Dissertation to Festival Spotlight: Sobia Bushra’s Trailblazers
Cardiff’s own Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival welcome the best LGBTQ+ short films both internation
Iris Industry Day 2025
The Iris Industry Day will take place on Wednesday, 15 October 2025, during the 19th Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival in Cardiff. The Industry Day will be unapologetic in its commitment to sharing best practices, challenging the issues faced by the sector, and embracing the opportunities for success.
