Brian Robinson Obituary: Champion of Queer Cinema at BFI 2026

Brian Robinson, the celebrated champion of queer cinema and longtime programmer at the British Film Institute (BFI), has passed away at the age of 67 after a battle with brain cancer. His work transformed LGBTQ+ film festivals and left an indelible mark on the industry.

Brian Robinson's Legacy in Queer Cinema

Brian Robinson joined the BFI in 1987 as a press officer, but his true impact came when he joined the programming team of the London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival in 2000. Over the next two decades, he helped grow the event into the renowned BFI Flare, a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ film culture. His flamboyant stage presence and mischievous rapport with filmmakers and audiences made him a beloved figure.

Early Life and Career

Born in Portadown, Northern Ireland, Brian studied law and French at Sussex University. After meeting his lifelong partner Pas Paschali in 1981, they became civil partners in 2007 and married in 2017. Together, they launched the queer arts magazine Square Peg in 1983, a pioneering publication that shaped LGBTQ+ discourse.

Contributions to Film and Art

Beyond his festival work, Brian had a deep love of art and design. His London home was a shrine to 1960s pop art, and he famously loaned rare Djinn furniture to the Design Museum's Stanley Kubrick exhibition in 2019. His passion for aesthetics influenced his curatorial vision, making BFI Flare a visually stunning experience.

Key Achievements of Brian Robinson

• Championed queer cinema for over 20 years at BFI
• Transformed the London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival into BFI Flare
• Co-founded the influential magazine Square Peg
• Loaned rare 1960s pop art furniture to major exhibitions
• Mentored countless filmmakers and programmers

Impact on LGBTQ+ Film Community

Brian's leadership extended beyond programming. He was an elder of London's LGBTQ+ film community, fostering a rich social network and providing a platform for underrepresented voices. His ability to connect with audiences and artists alike made BFI Flare a safe and celebratory space.

Remembering His Showmanship

Colleagues remember Brian's supreme confidence on stage, where he would introduce films with wit and charm. His obituary in The Guardian notes that he 'strode on to stages with supreme confidence,' a testament to his larger-than-life personality.

FAQ

Brian Robinson's passing is a profound loss, but his legacy lives on through the countless films he championed and the community he nurtured. His work will continue to inspire future generations of queer filmmakers and festival programmers.