Lesbian Space Princess was created by Australian filmmakers Emma Hough Hobbs and Leela Varghese. They co-wrote and co-directed the adult animated science-fiction comedy, which is their debut feature film.
How the film began
The project originated through Film Lab: New Voices , a South Australian film program designed to give first-time feature directors an opportunity to develop a film. During the process of deciding what idea to submit, Hough Hobbs came up with the title Lesbian Space Princess , reportedly after an unexpected idea in the shower.
The filmmakers then developed the concept into a queer space adventure about Saira , an anxious and introverted princess who travels across the galaxy to rescue her ex-girlfriend, Kiki , from the Straight White Maliens.
Who made it?
- Emma Hough Hobbs: Co-writer and co-director.
- Leela Varghese: Co-writer and co-director.
- Shabana Azeez: Voice of Saira.
- Bernie Van Tiel: Voice of Kiki.
Hough Hobbs and Varghese are both associated with South Australia’s independent film community, and Lesbian Space Princess marked their first feature-length collaboration as directors.
The film premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in February 2025, where it won the Teddy Award.