Together Films acquired world sales rights to GAY GAMES, an LGBTQ+ sports feature documentary by BAFTA-winning director Cherish “Chez” Oteka.
The deal was initiated by Together Films Founder Sarah Mosses and International Sales & Acquisitions Manager, Jess Reilly with producers Aleksandra Bilic and Jamie Clark for My Accomplice.
Every four years the Gay Games welcomes over 10,000 athletes in 36+ sports, making it the biggest LGBTQ+ sporting event in the world. Now in its 40th year, for the first time, it’s taking place in non-white countries and embracing full self-identification – where trans athletes can compete in line with their gender identity and where some sports are completely mixed and non-binary.
Chez’s cinematic documentary brings the vibrant event to life, capturing the joy, resilience, and camaraderie that make the Games so unique. With unprecedented access, the film takes viewers behind the scenes, following a diverse array of athletes, from around the world, competing in a wide range of sports including football, powerlifting, ballroom dancing and basketball. Through these personal journeys, we experience the emotional highs and lows of competition, see the Games’ profound impact on individual lives, and explore the power of inclusivity and self-expression in international sports. This is more than just a sporting event; it’s a powerful cultural moment that speaks to the heart of representation and belonging in today’s world, while celebrating a much-needed space for LGBTQ+ affirming competition.
Gay Games is currently in production, with funding from the BFI Doc Society Fund, awarding National Lottery funds. This project marks Chez’s debut feature documentary, following the success of their BAFTA-winning short, The Black Cop (2022), and their recognition as a Breakthrough Creator by Vimeo.
“As the popularity of sports documentaries continues to soar, the Gay Games is both timely and commercial, tapping into global discussions around identity and inclusion in sports. In the wake of the Olympic Games and divisive rhetoric around gender identity, we believe the Gay Games will resonate with global audiences and spark meaningful conversations.” said Sarah Mosses, CEO & Founder of Together Films.
Director Cherish “Chez” Oteka adds: “We are thrilled to be working with Together Films on this journey of bringing Gay Games to life. Together Films have an unparalleled track record in amplifying the reach of films and ensuring they have real-world impact. In this time, there is a real need for a film that is both politically and joyously queer. In Together Films, we have found a key partnership where the message of Gay Games is deeply understood and the creative approach is celebrated. This collaboration marks an exciting new chapter and I can’t wait to see where it takes us.”
Together Films will be presenting the film for the first time to buyers at DOC NYC and IDFA.
