TLVFest 2026 Announces Winners at Tel Aviv Cinematheque
TLVFest announced the winners of its 21st edition at the Tel Aviv Cinematheque, honoring standout international and Israeli queer cinema exploring identity, survival, and human connection.
The 21st TLVFest, Tel Aviv's International LGBT Film Festival, has announced the winners of its 2026 competitions at the Tel Aviv Cinematheque. The event highlighted international and Israeli productions focusing on gender identity, survival, human relationships, and the search for belonging.
The Philippine drama "Warla", directed by Kevin Alambra, claimed the Best International Feature Film award. Featuring an ensemble of transgender actresses, the film explores daily survival and moral dilemmas within the trans community. The jury commended its emphasis on solidarity and mutual responsibility, while special mentions went to "A Woman's Work" by A.R. Ephraim and "Lunar Fluctuations" by Nick Butler.
In the Israeli Short Film competition, Tomer Katri's "Chutzpa Boy" took top honors. The narrative follows a teenager from the south who flees his home and tries to board an express bus to Tel Aviv, only to face a driver who refuses him entry. The ensuing confrontation forces the young protagonist to confront the true reasons behind his escape. The jury praised the acting, direction, and humor, noting that it offers viewers "hope and strength to cope with a chaotic Israeli reality." Special mentions were awarded to Nethaya Kassirer's "It Will Come to You" and Amitai Shulman for his acting in Or Habusha's "Shatatnz".
Kristina Mikhailova's "River Dreams" won the Best International Documentary award. The film documents encounters with women and girls along the Aksai River in Kazakhstan, exploring themes of love, violence, growing up, and survival. The jury highlighted how the film gives voice to young women in a conservative society.
The festival concludes this Saturday, October 31, at the Tel Aviv Cinematheque, with screenings of the winning films scheduled through the weekend.
