Funny, tender, messy, provocative, frightening, and deeply human, this programme’s focus is on queer stories. From forbidden feelings and complicated families to toxic love, identity, desire and the unexpected places we find each other, these films put queer voices front and centre.
With an in-person Q&A with Stuart Armstrong, director of Meat Raffle.
Stuart Armstrong is a screenwriter and director from Cumbria, UK. His recent work includes queer Film Hub North and BFI NETWORK comedy short Meat Raffle (2025), multi award-winning micro short Lay-by (2024) and BIFA long-listed Beatles cult comedy short Paul Is Dead (2018). He is now in development on his debut feature.
In the Mix is presented by Film Hub North, supported by BFI NETWORK and National Lottery funding. Every film in this programme has been supported by the BFI NETWORK England Short Film Fund, which helps fund the production of standalone fiction shorts that showcase new perspectives and original storytelling.
Before I Do
Dir. Gitika Buttoo UK 2024 9’
On the morning of her wedding, haunted by the call of her untamed desires, Mona grapples with the constraints of tradition and her own quest for identity. As the ceremony looms, Mona’s encounters overbearing family, memories, and provocative messages that compel her to confront the true meaning of commitment.
Lonelier Than Love
Dir. Em Gilbertson UK 2026 15’
When toxic love and drugs blur the lines of reality, Wolfy must fight to break the cycle of self- destruction before it swallows him whole.
Meat Raffle
Dir. Stuart Armstrong UK 2025 15’
Terrified he’s turned his son queer, closeted dad Rich plots to rig his local pub’s Christmas turkey draw to prove himself as a real man.
All the Lights Still Burning
Dir. Dominic Leclerc UK 2023 15’
A classical violinist and a drug dealer connect in a queer love story set on the streets of Bradford.
Level 1 Cinema
Doors open 18:00; Film starts 18:30. Pop-up cinema bar open from 18:00 for drinks.
Baltic Cinema’s News From Home strand focuses on films and filmmakers from the north. Baltic Cinema is supported by Film Hub North.
