FEMME FRIGHTS: A celebration of women, non-binary, and trans folk in horror
London plays host to a chilling journey into the realms of horror this Thursday (26th October), as the unique perspectives of women, non-binary, and trans creatives in the genre are celebrated.
FEMME FRIGHTS, presented by Girls in Film, features a curated selection of short horror films that defy conventions and redefine fear.
Since the dawn of horror movies, women have often been framed through the voyeurism of the male gaze and cast as victims or vixens. However if you head to the Genesis Cinema in Whitechapel on Thursday, you will see those stereotypes challenged in an immersive experience that which will delve into the shadowy depths of horror from a fresh and diverse vantage point.
These films on display offer a diverse range of horror experiences, including elements of folk horror and witchcraft, and will focus on women, non-binary, and trans individuals pushing the boundaries of what horror can be and offering audiences a chance to reflect on societal issues, challenge preconceptions, and, at times, find solace in the strange escape that horror provides from real-life horrors.
Films include 2021 short Requiem, directed by Em Gilbertson and starring Bella Ramsey from The Last of Us, and Sarah Lasry’s supernatural horror Spell on You from the same year. See the full schedule at the foot of the article.
Event curator Arabella Peterson, told us: “In the realm of horror, the creative vision knows no bounds, and neither should the storytellers. Women, non-binary, and trans creatives in the horror film genre offer a unique alchemy of vulnerability and resilience, weaving narratives that transcend fear, not by erasing it, but by exposing its roots and reshaping its contours. Their voices redefine the landscape of horror, forging a path where darkness is both a mirror and a lantern, guiding us to confront the uncharted territories of the human psyche.“
The London-based Australian writer continued: “As a lifelong horror fan, I’m passionate about programming an event that celebrates this genre because it allows me to shine a spotlight on the profound complexities of women, trans, and non-binary folk within horror – as creators and as characters. It’s about embracing our power to shape and redefine the narratives that have traditionally defined us. ”
The event schedule is as follows:
7pm: Doors open, and guests are invited to enjoy drinks at the bar.
8:30pm: Screenings begin.
The films to be showcased at “FEMME FRIGHTS” include:
“Requiem” (2021) – Directed by Em Gilbertson (25 minutes)
“Everybody Goes To the Hospital” (2021) – Directed by Tiffany Kimmel (9 minutes)
“Carnivore” (2019) – Directed by Constance Tsang (13 minutes, 12 seconds)
“Brackish” (2021) – Directed by Christa Boarini (8 minutes, 20 seconds)
“Spell on You” (2021) – Directed by Sarah Lasry (21 minutes)
“Lili” (2019) – Directed by Yfke van Berckelaer (9 minutes)
FEMME FRIGHTS, presented by Girls in Film: Genesis Cinema, Whitechapel, Thursday 26th October from 7pm.
If you want to head along to the event (and you definitely should) then grab tickets and find out more info at the Genesis Cinema website and follow Girls in Film on Insta.
