Queer Lens: Lesbian film series

Queer Lens: Twin Cities Lesbian Film Series

When: 10 p.m. Sat. Where: Bryant-Lake Bowl. Tickets: $10.

A new lesbian film series has its coming out this weekend. Queer Lens will showcase the latest in independent local film shorts created by and focusing on queer women. The premiere edition includes stories about the struggles and triumphs of queer women, both modern and timeless. Set in the 1970s, Pam Colby’s “Fertile Ashes” (based on a true story) follows the shakeups — both political and romantic — of a lesbian liberation club. Meanwhile, the current battle for gay marriage within the context of Minnesota’s Vote No campaign is the focal point of Charlie McAnulty’s documentary “Lesbian Bells.” Hosting the evening is “Fertile Ashes” star and burlesque darling Sweetpea, who’ll offer up live performances between reels. A Q&A with the filmmakers will follow. (Bryant-Lake Bowl, 810 W. Lake St., Mpls. 612-825-8949 or www.bryantlakebowl.com.)