Originally, the festival was to take place in a state cinema house, which later backed out of the deal. Then the festival was moved to the private Pik theater, which then backed out as well.

”Russian authorities continue their policy of homophobia and arbitrary unlawful actions by preventing events organized behind closed doors in private places,” said leading Russian gay activist Nikolai Alekseev.

The festival was to offer 22 films and appearances by international filmmakers.