TLVFest 20th Edition Announces Honorary Guests
Tel Aviv’s acclaimed International LGBTQ+ Film Festival, known as TLVFest, returns for its 20th edition with a lineup designed to celebrate courage, creativity, and community. The festival will run from October 23 to November 2 at the Cinematheque Tel Aviv and surrounding venues, continuing a decades-long tradition of showcasing diverse queer cinema from around the world. This year’s edition spotlights two standout figures: American actress Debra Messing and Israeli pop icon Dana International, both named as guests of honor who will receive honorary awards for their contributions to culture, visibility, and the arts.
Meet the Guests of Honor: Debra Messing and Dana International
Debra Messing, best known for her iconic role in Will & Grace, will join the festival for candid conversations about representation, humor, and the power of storytelling. Messing’s career has helped normalize LGBTQ+ narratives in mainstream TV, and her involvement at TLVFest underscores the event’s commitment to bridging cultural spheres. Dana International, a trailblazing figure in music and LGBTQ+ advocacy, will share memories from a career that has consistently challenged stereotypes and amplified trans voices on a global stage. Both guests are expected to participate in Q&A sessions and exchanges with audiences, offering unique insights into the intersections of art, identity, and social change.
What to Expect: Screenings, Panels, and Special Events
The program promises a dynamic slate of screenings, including independent features, documentaries, and retrospectives that highlight queer perspectives from across continents. In addition to competitive showcases, TLVFest will present artist talks, masterclasses, and collaborative conversations designed to spark dialogue about cinema, culture, and community. Attendees can anticipate intimate conversations with filmmakers, live music moments, and a generous lineup of events that reflect Tel Aviv’s vibrant arts scene and its history as a crossroads for LGBTQ+ culture.
Why TLVFest Matters
Now celebrating two decades, TLVFest stands as a cornerstone for LGBTQ+ cinema in the region and beyond. In a country and region where queer voices often navigate complex social landscapes, the festival creates a welcoming space for exchange, education, and creative risk-taking. The 20th edition reaffirms TLVFest’s mission to elevate bold storytelling, foster cross-cultural friendship, and champion inclusion through film.
Practical Details for Attendees
Dates: October 23–November 2. Venue: Cinematheque Tel Aviv and affiliated venues. Tickets and festival passes will go on sale in mid-October, with special packages for students and LGBTQ+ organizations. The program also emphasizes accessibility with translated subtitles, captioned screenings, and inclusive programming to welcome diverse audiences from across the city and region.
Photography and Imagery: A Visual Snapshot of TLVFest
Visual coverage aims to capture the festival’s warmth and energy through candid, intimate photography. Expect scenes of thoughtful conversations, red-carpet arrivals, and audience engagement under natural lighting and authentic, non-scripted moments that reflect the festival’s community ethos. Note: photographers should focus on people and moments rather than branded signage to preserve the event’s inclusive atmosphere.
