Rainbow Shorts — Proud Voices On Screen

Proud Voices On Screen is excited to announce the two short films selected for Rainbow Shorts 2026.

Rainbow Shorts is our inaugural programme that offers the support and framework for two teams with queer writers and directors to make a short film that will shine on the big screen internationally. Applicants had to have a script and the key creative roles of writer, director and producer confirmed.

The two selected teams will each receive:

a production budget of NZ$40,000
An Executive Producer and advisors to support them through the development, production and post-production of their short film

We received 39 applications, and 10 projects were shortlisted for further consideration. Selectors were looking for films that are likely to have success at international film festivals, with a script that is ready to be made and a team with the skills to carry out the vision they have for the film.

“We were blown away by how many teams with queer writers and directors had a creative team and short film script ready to go. We received such a breadth of heartfelt, funny and visually striking short film concepts. It’s an honour to read scripts that filmmakers have put so much time into and we want to thank all of the applicants for sharing their storytelling vision with us. The future of queer cinema is bright.”

- Eloise Veber, Executive Director

The two short films selected for Rainbow Shorts 2026 are:

Molletes drama/coming of age - live action

Writer/Director - Mirene Castelltort

Producer - Jennifer Onyeiwu

Logline: At her first Kiwi Christmas, eight-year-old Jimena is caught between protecting her Mexican culture and rejecting it to fit in.

Rams drama/dance - live action

Writer/Director - Ryan Bradley

Writer/Producer - Hattie Adams

Logline: A boys rugby team navigate the ritual and carnage of changing room culture following a championship win.

Alongside bespoke craft mentorship to support the filmmakers in writing and directing, both films will also be supported by Proud Voices on Screen board member Thomas Coppell (Big Girls Don’t Cry), who will serve as an Executive Producer for the 2026 films.