Queer Mais Trash: Celebrating the Raw, Bold, and Beautifully Queer

Brussels is gearing up for a spectacularly subversive weekend as the Queer Mais Trash Festival returns for its 7th edition from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at Espace Magh. Combining politically charged cinema, electrifying performances, and unapologetic celebrations of queer identity, this festival is a must for anyone craving bold and alternative art.I

This year’s highlights include Alexis Langlois’ feature Les Reines du Drame, Lip Sync Battles hosted by Brigitte Pintade, and Bingo Mais Trash with Edna Sorgelsen. As François Marache, co-creator of the festival, shares: “Queer Mais Trash isn’t just a festival—it’s a space of visibility, celebration, and gathering for the LGBTQIA+ community.”

From Idea to Institution

“Queer Mais Trash started around a decade ago as a small event during Pride,” François recalls. “We wanted to showcase queer short films, but the concept quickly gained traction. Today, it’s a multi-day festival with a rebellious heart and a vibrant, punk energy.“

The term “trash” in its name, he explains, represents more than aesthetic. “It’s about showing films that are alternative, politically incorrect, and raw—but always thought-provoking. These are stories that challenge the norm and spark discussion.”

2025: A Milestone Year

This 7th edition is particularly special, marking 20 years of Court Mais Trash, the festival’s sibling event. “We wanted to go big this year,” François says. “We’re dedicating three days to screenings and events, starting with Les Reines du Drame by Alexis Langlois. Alexis is a festival favorite, and his first feature feels like the perfect way to open this year’s celebration.”

Langlois’ work has resonated deeply with Queer Mais Trash audiences. “His cinema is playful, provocative, and deeply personal. It embodies the ethos of what we stand for.”

A Commitment to Diversity

Inclusivity remains at the heart of the festival. “Our goal is to represent the entire LGBTQIA+ spectrum,” François explains. “We don’t create screenings specifically for gays, lesbians, or any single group. Instead, we curate sessions that bring everyone together, showcasing stories from across the spectrum.”

He emphasizes the importance of representation: “We work hard to feature diverse bodies, ages, and cultures. This is a festival where everyone should feel seen and celebrated.”

© Pierre Marino-Smette 

More Than Films

Queer Mais Trash also thrives on its alternative programming. “From the debut Lip Sync Battle with Brigitte Pintade to concerts by Hyperartistes and a riotous Bingo Mais Trash, the events are as much a part of our identity as the films,” François says.

These events, he notes, create spaces for connection and joy: “It’s about coming together, sharing experiences, and feeling a sense of belonging.”

A Lasting Impact

François hopes the festival inspires beyond its three days. “Queer Mais Trash is more than entertainment; it’s a platform for marginalized voices, a celebration of identity, and a reminder that there’s beauty in diversity,” he shares.

Recalling a past highlight, François laughs: “During our ‘Queer mais super sexe’ session, we screened a hilarious, explicit short by Jan Soldat featuring two septuagenarians. Let’s just say it involved champagne and a lot of laughter. The audience erupted in applause—it was pure magic.”

As the festival’s 7th edition approaches, François invites everyone to join the movement: “Come as you are. You’ll leave inspired, celebrated, and maybe a little trashy.”

Save the date and dive into the boldest queer cinema Brussels has to offer!

.Practical Info

• Location: Espace Magh, Rue du Poinçon 17, 1000 Brussels
• Tickets: Visit www.courtsmaistrash.net or Espace Magh’s ticket page
• Contact: info@espacemagh.be or +32 (0) 2 274 05 10