Immaginaria 2026 in Rome: International Film Festival of Lesbians &

Immaginaria 2026: independent women's film festival in Rome

Dates: May 8–10, 2026
Venue: Cinema Nuovo Sacher, Rome

The 21st edition of Immaginaria – International Film Festival of Lesbians & Other Rebellious Women presents three days of screenings, talks and panels dedicated to independent cinema made by and about women. The festival highlights stories often sidelined by mainstream circuits, featuring feature films, documentaries and short films from around the world.

Program highlights

• Opening night: Friday, May 8 at 20:00 with the restored 4K screening of Patricia Rozema's When Night Is Falling.
• Tribute to Edda Billi, historic figure of Italian feminism and lesbian activism (1933–2026).
• Guest testimonial: Federica Rosellini, director and performer, noted for her original and visionary theatrical works.
• Premieres and Q&As: Italian premiere of the documentary A Culinary Uprising: The Story of Bloodroot with director Annie Laurie Medonis and production team members.
• International selection: feature films such as Hot Milk (Rebecca Lenkiewicz), Des preuves d'amour (Alice Douard) and The Queen of My Dreams (Fawzia Mirza).
• Short-film panel: "Senza chiedere il permesso: i female gazes nel cortometraggio italiano contemporaneo", moderated by Domizia De Rosa (WIFTM Italia) with selected directors and performers.

Why attend

Immaginaria is a space to discover independent cinematic voices, discuss representation and identity, and connect with filmmakers, authors and producers working outside mainstream channels. The edition's theme, The Power of Love, frames love as a transformative and political force.

Admission

Access requires the 2026 Membership Card (Tessera) of Associazione Culturale Visibilia APS, which grants entry to screenings and events at Cinema Nuovo Sacher. Registration and details available at www.immaginariaff.it.