MIX New York Queer Experimental Film Festival

The 26th Queer Experimental Film Festival opened last night at The Mix Factory in New York City (check out the collage of images from the festivities above) and continues through Nov. 17. Make sure to check out everything from surreal and catchy music videos to dirges on the tribulations of the "community."

Although some may immediately write off anything with the title "experimental film" in its title, it's important to remember that the goal is not to confound the viewer in a cloud of pretension, but to move audiences into unfamiliar and new ground. This particular film festival has not only been curated by a knowledgable crew but the excellent mix of unusual film projects are supplemented by performances and installations for anyone to jump in and explore.

Each night is loosely themed, and the second day, Nov. 13, is aptly titled Smorgasbord--going from surreal investigations on the idea of twigs and rocks to a touching documentary on trans folks becoming parents.

Refusing to be fit in any genre or school, the fest encompasses an Afro-Asian Visions that includes Stephen Winter and M. Lamar's Speculum Orum, an important piece not to ignore or be missed.

The festival showcases work that would otherwise languish in obscurity, so take our advice: skip Thor 2 and get the to this festival!

The full line up and location can be found at MixNYC.org