Our Mission is Diversity and Education

Desperado’s mission is to showcase quality films that reflect the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Our goal is to create an event that is educational, enlightening, entertaining, and enjoyable. In addition to the screening of films, local artists and photographers are showcased in the art gallery.

Outdoor events and the art gallery are free and open to the public.

Festival Director:  Dale Heuser, Paradise Valley Community College Faculty
Festival Programmer: Alan East
Film Selection: Marilyn Cristiano, Erica Kepler, Sherri Shimansky, Ted Kirby, Sorrell Jones, Lisa Derrick, Keccia Martinez

All selected films/filmmakers are eligible for awards.. Awards will be announced the week following the last day of our festival.

Award categories are:

Audience Award – Best Feature
Audience Award – Best Short