Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 9:10am Monday, April 13 at 2:35pm Friday, April 17 at 9:30am
Prawn Bhuna United Kingdom Directed by: Howard Charles Synopsis: A meal at a restaurant. A taxi. And a kidnapping. Not necessarily in that order.
Broken Dawn South Korea Directed by: Hae-oh Park Synopsis: An elderly substitute driver navigates a long night in Seoul, confronting loneliness, dignity, and survival at dawn.
Dance Mom Canada Directed by: Chad Cole Synopsis: An uninvolved father gets swept up in the world of children's competitive dance.
Ivanko's Childhood United Kingdom Directed by: Vera Graziadei Synopsis: A Ukrainian refugee boy seems lost wandering around an English village, but he's on a mission to save his Motherland.
Over Australia Directed by: Duncan Ragg and Anna Phillips Synopsis: A father confronts his apathy when his son steals his boat and refuses to return until he's saved the world.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 11:40am Sunday, April 12 at 9:30am Tuesday, April 14 at 4:25pm Handwoven Directed by: Nikyle Begay Synopsis: A lyrical portrait of Nikyle Begay, a nonbinary shepherd-weaver, preserving ancestral lifeways through the traditional art of weaving.
Compas Directed by: Aric Lopez; Daniel Roman Synopsis: A center of day laborers builds community through storytelling in a time of hostility that aims to break them apart.
La Estrella Directed by: Gabriela Díaz Arp Synopsis: La Estrella is a tender portrait of a tight-knit Mexican-American family grappling with the entrance of fentanyl into their community. Amanece Directed by: Julián Fernández Garnik Synopsis: A 9-year-old boy is forced to mature after a striking event tears at the fabric of safety in Puerto Rico.
Sirens Directed by: Maria Valdez Synopsis: A single mother seeks justice for the murder of her son, but first she must reconcile with her own past.
Enseñame Como Morir (Show Me How To Die) Directed by: Gerardo Maravilla Synopsis: A grieving Mexican-American woman becomes fascinated with learning what it feels like to die.
El Marciano Directed by: Daniel Rocha Synopsis: Elena attempts to tell her son, Rico, that their family is undocumented. Her daughter Ava, however, has other plans.
African American Directed Shorts Run Time: 90 minutes
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 2:05pm Sunday, April 12 at 4:00pm Tuesday, April 14 at 12:15pm
D!SoRd3rEd Directed by: Corey Allen Synopsis: A Black Patient Zero confronts history, memory, and the ghosts of a nation afraid of its own reflection.
the daughter Directed by: Mary Ann Anane Synopsis: A day at the beach turns sinister when ten-year-old Lana spies her father's violent interactions with a young woman.
Da Capo Directed by: Morgan Middleton Synopsis: Caregiver husband Johnny uses music to reach Esther through her Alzheimer’s, proving melodies endure even as her memories fade.
1-800-GET-SEXY Directed by: Sadé May Synopsis: Lonely phone rep Noor moonlights as a phone sex operator, nudged to chase her desires by a mysterious television shrink.
Ownership Directed by: Yvonne Huff Lee Synopsis: When an invitation to an antiques reality show unearths skeletons, three women are forced to take ownership of their reality.
Them That’s Not Directed by: Mekhai Lee Synopsis: A sudden prison furlough unexpectedly bonds an estranged father with his emotionally avoidant daughter at their matriarch’s repass.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 2:10pm Friday, April 17 at 9:20am Sunday, April 19 at 1:30pm
Draft Paper Directed by: Olivia Moon Synopsis: An unfulfilled fashion designer faces the moral implications of creating art when given an intriguing opportunity during World War II.
From Jazz to Jackboots Directed by: Justin Stephenson Synopsis: A study in censorship – Dance/Music film based on 10 Dance band rules and regulations from Nazi Germany.
HOLY HEAVÊNESS Directed by: Farnoosh Abedi, Negah Khezre Fardyardad, Mohammad Ghaffari Synopsis: The unbearable lightness of the death of loved ones… There are wounds in life that eat away at you like leprosy…The weight of the death of loved ones sometimes becomes so overwhelming that to get rid of this weight another birth is inevitable.
Waiting for the Crash Directed by: Ben Wild, Debuchelon Synopsis: Animated satire on accidental nuclear war and the state of modern society with music from Debuchelon.
WEB 5000.0 Directed by: Sishir Bommakanti Synopsis: WEB 5000.0 is a mythological retelling about the rise and fall of The Internet. Far in the future.
The Robe of Rainbow Feathers Directed by: Wesley Price Synopsis: The story traces a girl whose bond with the natural world shows her that love and gratitude outshine fear.
On Saint Nicholas' Eve Directed by: Emy Mirel Ivasca Synopsis: A boy remembers a Saint Nicholas evening spent with his father.
Fangio: Courage or Destiny (Coraje o Destino) Directed by: Nicolas P. Villarreal Synopsis: Fangio: Courage or Destiny follows a boy confronting destiny choices, inspired by F1 driver Juan Manuel Fangio’s leg burns, 1955.
Native American Directed Shorts Run Time: 85 minutes
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 4:20pm Sunday, April 12 at 10:50am Tuesday, April 14 at 2:20pm
My Message To You Directed by: ‘Wáats'asdíyei Joe Yates Synopsis: With fewer than a handful of fluent Haida speakers, Nayak'aq Yaahl (6) shares a message all in the Haida Language.
Legend of Fry-Roti: Rise of the Dough Directed by: Sabrina Saleha Synopsis: A Navajo/Bengali niece kneads harmony when feuding aunties spark a frybread-vs-roti showdown, pushing her to create her own recipe.
When Girls Go Missing Directed by: Jeanette DeDios Synopsis: Indigenous woman finds herself alone in the woods during a party and encounters something strange.
Metamorphosis Directed by: Antonio Cavallo Synopsis: When a young man's grandpa turns into a giant caterpillar, he must change him back, or accept the new circumstances.
Frame-Less Directed by: William Wayne Synopsis: A hiking date turns sour when a robber holds them at gunpoint. But using a surreal advantage, Ben fights back.
Finding Fire Directed by: David J. Aberle Synopsis: A young Indigenous woman far from home confronts cultural disconnection, seeking sacred space, rediscovering purpose, and the fire within herself.
The Birth of the Crying Indian Directed by: Montana Cypress Synopsis: "The Birth of the Crying Indian" is a comedic retelling of how the famous crying Indian commercial came to be.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 4:25pm Saturday, April 11 at 6:20pm Sunday, April 19 at 3:15pm
Bukra Directed by: Alex Aljouni Synopsis: A Syrian refugee must race to claim a prize and play one final game with her friend before he’s gone.
California is Burning Directed by: Bennett Curran Synopsis: In a poetic story of resilience, Altadena residents and first responders recall the damages and response after the Eaton Fire.
Terroir Directed by: Casey Rogerson Synopsis: A young wine critic and her friends become the target of a masked killer.
Debt I Owe Directed by: Zane Rizvi-Riemer Synopsis: Burdened by gambling debts, a Pakistani-American widower searches for redemption while struggling to be a good father for his daughters.
Underground Sounds: The New Thousand Story Directed by: Emma Keatley Synopsis: Inside the mind of mesmerizing NYC violinist Adrian Jusdanis of New Thousand, joined by drummer Alan Zavodsky, delivering electrifying performances.
Reni’s Worlds Directed by: Claudia Ruiz Synopsis: On the first day of school, Renato finds a book about origami, a friend, and one big adventure.
Go My Way Directed by: Chelo Loureiro Synopsis: All the advice Elisa receives to make Martin fall in love with her is to change not only her appearance, but also who she really is.
América Directed by: Javier Arias-Stella Synopsis: América, a 10-year-old girl from a remote Andean village, dreams of buying a bicycle so she’ll never be late to class again.
The Strange Case of the Human Cannonball Directed by: Roberto Valencia Synopsis: One morning, a mysterious man is found lying in the village square. No one knows who he is, nor where he came from.
The Interpreter Directed by: Dahiana Candelo Synopsis: Nine-year-old Tatiana is fine with her role as an interpreter for Mami. She can even use it to her advantage….
Nube Directed by: Diego Alonso Sánchez de la Barquera Estrada & Christian Arredondo Narvaez Synopsis: A puffy white cloud realizes that her daughter, a dark stormy cloud, is in danger of raining prematurely.
Nana Carmen Directed by: Kaila Gutierrez Synopsis: Nana Carmen is babysitting Elena for the day. She’s mischievous, missing a tooth, and only speaks Spanish.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 9:10am Thursday, April 16 at 2:20pm Sunday, April 19 at 5:15pm
Malignant Practice Directed by: Kristin Catalano Synopsis: Malignant Practice is an animated film about a woman’s missed breast cancer diagnosis, revealing healthcare system flaws and self-advocacy importance.
Special CelEd Directed by: Christopher J. Cormier Synopsis: Celebrities and cultural influencers’ connection to special education and disability.
Over the Kitchen Table Directed by: Nisha Burton Synopsis: Over the Kitchen Table tells the untold story of the founding of the battered women's movement.
A triumph! A spectacle! A fuzzy wuzzy cuddle puddle! CatVideoFest is all that and more. Your favorite family-friendly cat-themed film event is here as part of PFF’s Caturday!
The videos are curated by Will Braden, the Seattle-based creator of the comedically existential shorts, Henri, le Chat Noir. His business cards read: “I watch cat videos.” And it’s not a joke or an exaggeration. Braden watches thousands of hours of internet videos to make the annual compilation.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 10:55am Sunday, April 12 at 11:05am Wednesday, April 15 at 9:10pm
Bench Seats Directed by: Courtney DeStefano Synopsis: When an argument with her wife lands Dani at a crossroads, she reflects on her memories of one transformational summer.
Daddies Boi Directed by: Jason Avezzano Synopsis: As youth and options dry up, two aging sugar babies plunge into the "desire economy” through an app: Daddies Boi.
MascLooking Directed by: Jonathan Hammond Synopsis: After two friends banter over using Brindr, one is left chatting with a mysterious stranger. And he’s getting closer…
The Next Day Directed by: Jonathan Wolfe Synopsis: A gay man confronts his fiancé the day after a traumatic event, forcing him to question their upcoming wedding plans.
Dérive Directed by: Lianne Sonia Walden Synopsis: A reclusive publisher is transformed by chance encounters during a Surrealist odyssey across NYC to release her ex-wife’s ashes.
Wall Udder Directed by: Alexandra Hayden Synopsis: A dissatisfied woman confronts repressed feelings of malaise after her partner comes home smelling like milk.
Big Bass Directed by: Drew Dickler Synopsis: Drew travels to 1997 to revisit a memory involving her queer identity, her legendary PE teacher…and a mysterious plastic fish.
Not The Science Type: Gitanjal Directed by: Julio Palacio Synopsis: Gitanjali Rao was named TIME Magazine’s Kid of the Year in 2020 and, at just 16 years old, she’s already an accomplished scientist on a mission to create a global community of young innovators to solve problems all over the world.
Sea Dragon Directed by: James Morgan Synopsis: A young fossil hunter makes a groundbreaking discovery, challenging the worldview of 19th century England.
Balam Directed by: Guillermo Casarin Synopsis: Itzel, on a camping trip deep in the jungle, frees a jaguar from captivity. When a furious poacher gives chase, she stumbles upon a mysterious lost Mayan city.
7 Planets Directed by: Milda Baginskaite Synopsis: A space-obsessed girl realizes that in cosmic matters, it’s all about the long game
Knights In Newark Directed by: Nic Yulo Synopsis: Armed with her vivid imagination, a young girl engineers a secret project on the roof of her apartment building to protect her immigrant family from the dreaded curse of the Knights in Newark.
Horizon Directed by: Nic Yulo Synopsis: To realize her dream of launching into uncharted space, a determined astronaut must choose to leave her humanity behind.
Generation Impact: The Coder Directed by: Samantha Knowles Synopsis: Jay Jay Patton was only 13 when she designed and built an app to help kids connect with their incarcerated parents, inspired by her own experience. Now she is creating a coding academy to help other kids do the same.
Cats Eyewitness News Directed by: Michele Campbell Synopsis: You think it’s about a hurricane, but it’s really about belly rubs!
Catnap Directed by: Carrie Runyan Synopsis: An animated tale about a dog who won’t let a kitty have her catnap - inspired by true event!
The Language of Love Directed by: Cristina Ocana Gallegos Synopsis: A personal documentary about the subtle ways cats communicate and understand us - and how we reciprocate.
Oh Catnada! Directed by: Casper Flatman Synopsis: What would a feline-centric country look like, with its very own flag and anthem?!
PAWS and PURPOSE Directed by: Kim Best Synopsis: A documentary about a sanctuary that began saving goats but has become a loving final home for cats regardless of age or any issues.
CATS ON THINGS Directed by: Mary Matthews Synopsis: A fun and funny animated description of the havoc cats cause in our homes and why we love them anyway.
A HAND TO HOME Directed by: Shafeer Shamsudheen Synopsis: The filmmaker from Dubai created this tale of a rescued kitten told from her perspective, manually created with Adobe Firefly support.
ALFRED HITCHCAT PRESENTS “BANQUO’S CHAIR” Directed by: Priscilla Dean Synopsis: Another Purradise Ranch production with “talking cat actors,” featuring Detective Purrlock Holmes investigating a murder in a mansion haunted by feline ghosts.
SCAREDY, THE CAT Directed by: Markie Hancock Synopsis: A documentary about a very shy feral cat adopted by people at the public tennis courts in a NYC park and how she came to trust a very few of them.
BASTET Directed by: Dvorzak, Majnaric & Dolonga Synopsis: Three Croatian friends - who love cats and are animators - made drawings by hand they colored on the computer, telling this story of three cats who rise to the clouds to meet Bastet, the ancient Egyptian goddess of cats.
LUCY Directed by: Adam Tindall Synopsis: A narrative film in which a woman comes to suspect that her new boyfriend is more interested in her cat than in her.
OLD PAWS 4 Directed by: The Black Cat Market (Pittsburgh Film Academy students) Synopsis: A cat cafe and a cat rescue team up to find loving homes for senior cats.
THE CAT HOUSE CHRONICLES Directed by: Jeanie Miller Synopsis: A documentary about a young cat who is adopted into a senior cat retirement home where he is a charming troublemaker.
10TH LIFE Directed by: Ellie Kraemer Synopsis: An animated whimsical tale of a lost kitten and his mysterious new ally as they find their way home.
DAILY TABBY Directed by: Anaya Kay Dalton Synopsis: A mockumentary focused on an ESA at a college campus and her point of view about the students and their activities. [IN PROGRESS]
SHADOW Directed by: Erin Greenwell Synopsis: Artistic animation shows how her cat’s death broke a woman’s heart, but a stray in the neighborhood who befriended her made her wonder if her kitty who passed away sent Shadow to heal her?.
LOVE IS LOVE Directed by: Mutual Rescue Synopsis: A documentary in which a woman describes what her three tripawd cats taught her about love, the cycle of life and recovery .
WHEN LEFT IS RIGHT Directed by: Kim Best Synopsis: Being a “southpaw” comes with challenges that a kitten is determined to overcome, as he explains.
LOKI, UKRAINIAN CAT Directed by: Tania Bashkatova Synopsis: This is the story of a Ukrainian cat named Loki: his journey to escape the war in Ukraine and his adaptation in Ireland.
MY FAMILIAR Directed by: David Zayas, Elizabeth Bays Synopsis: Music video featuring Elizabeth Bays’s love for her soulmate cat Screamy, who has since passed away.
CATS EYEWITNESS NEWS Directed by: Michele Campbell Synopsis: A feline news report that includes a flock of pigeons sitting shiva.
Asian American Pacific Islander Directed Shorts Run Time: 95 minutes
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 4:55pm Sunday, April 12 at 5:40pm Tuesday, April 14 at 10:05am
Taga Directed by: Jill Sachs Synopsis: When eco-volunteers scorn the customs of a remote mountain village, an ancient evil comes knocking.
SŪNNA Directed by: Radha Mehta Synopsis: When hearing loss shatters her identity, a musician is left in silence until echoes of memory help her reclaim herself.
Johann's Story: Rewriting Life Directed by: Cindy Lee Synopsis: A Korean American disabled veteran rewrites his life and reflects on the power and connection of sharing pain.
I Wanna Be Directed by: Chaewon Suh Synopsis: Blind runner Woori has no choice but to team up with Lola, who only volunteered to compensate for failing grades.
There Tokyo Directed by: Haruka Motohashi Synopsis: There Tokyo is an autobiographical documentary centers around the director herself, a Japan-born expatriate, returning to Tokyo to visit her estranged and ailing mother.
More Dead Than Living Directed by: JT Doran Synopsis: Death comes for a widow who's happy to go but not without one last “magic" adventure with his estranged daughter.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 4:25 Saturday, April 11 at 6:20pm Sunday, April 19 at 3:15pm
Bukra Directed by: Alex Aljouni Synopsis: A Syrian refugee must race to claim a prize and play one final game with her friend before he’s gone.
California is Burning Directed by: Bennett Curran Synopsis: In a poetic story of resilience, Altadena residents and first responders recall the damages and response after the Eaton Fire.
Terroir Directed by: Casey Rogerson Synopsis: A young wine critic and her friends become the target of a masked killer.
Debt I Owe Directed by: Zane Rizvi-Riemer Synopsis: Burdened by gambling debts, a Pakistani-American widower searches for redemption while struggling to be a good father for his daughters.
Underground Sounds: The New Thousand Story Directed by: Emma Keatley Synopsis: Inside the mind of mesmerizing NYC violinist Adrian Jusdanis of New Thousand, joined by drummer Alan Zavodsky, delivering electrifying performances.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 8:20pm Saturday, April 18 at 10:00pm Sunday, April 19 at 1:15pm Tomato Soup Directed by: Brendan Michael Conant Synopsis: Dodd is a freshly signed baseball player struggling to say goodbye to his hometown, desperate for a reason to stay.
Luca and Johnny Directed by: Antonio Ducrot Synopsis: A young father tries to balance raising his child with chasing his dream of becoming an actor.
Naploletanità Directed by: Miranda Patterson, Owen Atienza, Sophie Flater, Annabelle Avoilio Synopsis: Seven vignettes reveal the creative, contradictory heart of modern Naples.
Proscenium Directed by: Georgia Evensen Synopsis: Proscenium follows a crew shooting a dance film, and the nervous young director’s struggle to connect with the lead dancer. Grossness of Closeness Directed by: Cathal Power Synopsis: A lonely bachelor rents a family and for a while, it's wonderful, but it's not long before things get weird.
Screening Time(s): Sunday, April 12 at 9:00am Thursday, April 16 at 4:25pm Sunday, April 19 at 9:00am
Family Matters: John Driskell Hopkins Directed by: Alina Vission Synopsis: After ALS diagnosis, Grammy-winning musician John Driskell Hopkins rallies band, family, and fans, transforming heartbreak into hope, purpose, and legacy. The Blind Reggaetonera Directed by: River Zhihui Zhang Synopsis: A blind reggaeton singer defies barriers to pursue her music dreams, proving that passion and determination transcend physical limitations.
Diminishing Returns Directed by: Colin Whitman Synopsis: Ernesto hunts the streets of LA searching for enough recyclables to pay for his daughter’s chemo back in the Philippines.
The Lone Wolf Directed by: Travis Thompson Synopsis: Brazilian ultrarunner Manuela Vilaseca's quest for the Triple Crown of Endurance Racing
Hadu Directed by: Damilola Solesi Synopsis: An eager young girl embarks on a culinary journey to recreate her grandma’s special recipe.
Mojappi It’s Mine Directed by: Nijitaro Synopsis: Mojappi, a trio of naughty kids who live in the forest, will do anything to get those pancakes.
Splish, Splash, Splosh! Directed by: Lily Ward Synopsis: Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass—it’s about learning to dance in the rain!
Dancing in the Rain Directed by: Chao-chun Yeh Synopsis: As the rain starts and a little girl falls asleep, her dream adventure begins.
Ronny: A Crocumentary Directed by: Abbey Collings Synopsis: A frog documents Ronny, a friendly crocodile who just wants a hug.
Capybaras Directed by: Alfredo Soderguit Synopsis: It’s hunting season. Seeking refuge, a family of capybaras and a group of hens form a union that leads to unexpected consequences.
The Girl with the Occupied Eyes Directed by: André Carrilho Synopsis: Over hill and dale (and beach, and space), only one thing can capture her attention.
Hello Summer Directed by: Martin Smatana & Veronika Zacharová Synopsis: Sea, sun, beaches. Sounds great. But what if your room has a naughty view, dinner is strange, and your luggage travels somewhere else without you?
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 11:40am Sunday, April 12 at 9:30am Tuesday, April 14 at 4:25pm
Handwoven Directed by: Nikyle Begay Synopsis: A lyrical portrait of Nikyle Begay, a nonbinary shepherd-weaver, preserving ancestral lifeways through the traditional art of weaving.
Compas Directed by: Aric Lopez; Daniel Roman Synopsis: A center of day laborers builds community through storytelling in a time of hostility that aims to break them apart.
La Estrella Directed by: Gabriela Díaz Arp Synopsis: La Estrella is a tender portrait of a tight-knit Mexican-American family grappling with the entrance of fentanyl into their community.
Amanece Directed by: Julián Fernández Garnik Synopsis: A 9-year-old boy is forced to mature after a striking event tears at the fabric of safety in Puerto Rico.
Sirens Directed by: Maria Valdez Synopsis: A single mother seeks justice for the murder of her son, but first she must reconcile with her own past. Enseñame Como Morir (Show Me How To Die) Directed by: Gerardo Maravilla Synopsis: A grieving Mexican-American woman becomes fascinated with learning what it feels like to die.
El Marciano Directed by: Daniel Rocha Synopsis: Elena attempts to tell her son, Rico, that their family is undocumented. Her daughter Ava, however, has other plans.
Native American Directed Shorts Run Time: 85 minutes
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 4:20pm Sunday, April 12 at 10:50am Tuesday, April 14 at 2:20pm My Message To You Directed by: ‘Wáats'asdíyei Joe Yates Synopsis:With fewer than a handful of fluent Haida speakers, Nayak'aq Yaahl (6) shares a message all in the Haida Language
Legend of Fry-Roti: Rise of the Dough Directed by: Sabrina Saleha Synopsis: A Navajo/Bengali niece kneads harmony when feuding aunties spark a frybread-vs-roti showdown, pushing her to create her own recipe.
When Girls Go Missing Directed by: Jeanette DeDios Synopsis: Indigenous woman finds herself alone in the woods during a party and encounters something strange.
Metamorphosis Directed by: Antonio Cavallo Synopsis: When a young man's grandpa turns into a giant caterpillar, he must change him back, or accept the new circumstances. Frame-Less Directed by: William Wayne Synopsis: A hiking date turns sour when a robber holds them at gunpoint. But using a surreal advantage, Ben fights back.
Finding Fire Directed by: David J. Aberle Synopsis: A young Indigenous woman far from home confronts cultural disconnection, seeking sacred space, rediscovering purpose, and the fire within herself. The Birth of the Crying Indian Directed by: Montana Cypress Synopsis: "The Birth of the Crying Indian" is a comedic retelling of how the famous crying Indian commercial came to be.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 10:55am Sunday, April 12 at 11:05am Wednesday, April 15 at 9:10pm
Bench Seats Directed by: Courtney DeStefano Synopsis: When an argument with her wife lands Dani at a crossroads, she reflects on her memories of one transformational summer.
Daddies Boi Directed by: Jason Avezzano Synopsis: As youth and options dry up, two aging sugar babies plunge into the "desire economy” through an app: Daddies Boi.
MascLooking Directed by: Jonathan Hammond Synopsis: After two friends banter over using Brindr, one is left chatting with a mysterious stranger. And he’s getting closer…
The Next Day Directed by: Jonathan Wolfe Synopsis: A gay man confronts his fiancé the day after a traumatic event, forcing him to question their upcoming wedding plans.
Dérive Directed by: Lianne Sonia Walden Synopsis: A reclusive publisher is transformed by chance encounters during a Surrealist odyssey across NYC to release her ex-wife’s ashes.
Wall Udder Directed by: Alexandra Hayden Synopsis: A dissatisfied woman confronts repressed feelings of malaise after her partner comes home smelling like milk.
Big Bass Directed by: Drew Dickler Synopsis: Drew travels to 1997 to revisit a memory involving her queer identity, her legendary PE teacher…and a mysterious plastic fish.
Screening Time(s): Sunday, April 12 at 11:45am Monday, April 13 at 4:40pm Saturday, April 18 at 9:15am
Heirlooms Canada Directed by: Dan Abramovici Synopsis: After her mother's passing, Jamie inherits an old family heirloom. Only to discover, heirlooms are better left alone.
Bidet Canada Directed by: James Brylowski Synopsis: A group of best friends are hunted by a possessed bidet.
A Few Questions United Kingdom Directed by: Michail Egglhoefer Synopsis: A mixed race man is interviewed by the police after a racial assault.
Ballad of an Immigrant with Memory (Balada de un inmigrante con memoria) Mexico Directed by: Sergio Muñoz Esquer Synopsis: An immigrant travels through surreal memories in Mexico to find the rosary his mother gave him when he left home
The Swing United Kingdom Directed by: Yaz & Haz Synopsis: Danny takes Simon on a roadtrip through their scenic childhood stomping grounds, in an ill-advised bid to lift his spirits.
Our Little Act of Rebellion Greece Directed by: Ranw Aso-Rashid Synopsis: A man recalls his encounter with a mysterious woman in 1970s Greece, at the height of military government rule.
Bag Ladies United Kingdom Directed by: Harry Syed Synopsis: A vintage influencer ruffles a well heeled fashionista for a peek at her iconic handbag in this comedy about obsession.
African American Directed Shorts Run Time: 90 minutes
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 2:05pm Sunday, April 12 at 4:00pm Tuesday, April 14 at 12:15pm
D!SoRd3rEd Directed by: Corey Allen Synopsis: A Black Patient Zero confronts history, memory, and the ghosts of a nation afraid of its own reflection.
the daughter Directed by: Mary Ann Anane Synopsis: A day at the beach turns sinister when ten-year-old Lana spies her father's violent interactions with a young woman.
Da Capo Directed by: Morgan Middleton Synopsis: Caregiver husband Johnny uses music to reach Esther through her Alzheimer’s, proving melodies endure even as her memories fade.
1-800-GET-SEXY Directed by: Sadé May Synopsis: Lonely phone rep Noor moonlights as a phone sex operator, nudged to chase her desires by a mysterious television shrink.
Ownership Directed by: Yvonne Huff Lee Synopsis: When an invitation to an antiques reality show unearths skeletons, three women are forced to take ownership of their reality.
Them That’s Not Directed by: Mekhai Lee Synopsis: A sudden prison furlough unexpectedly bonds an estranged father with his emotionally avoidant daughter at their matriarch’s repass.
Asian American Pacific Islander Directed Shorts Run Time: 95 minutes
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 4:55pm Sunday, April 12 at 5:40pm Tuesday, April 14 at 10:05am
Taga Directed by: Jill Sachs Synopsis: When eco-volunteers scorn the customs of a remote mountain village, an ancient evil comes knocking.
SŪNNA Directed by: Radha Mehta Synopsis: When hearing loss shatters her identity, a musician is left in silence until echoes of memory help her reclaim herself.
Johann's Story: Rewriting Life Directed by: Cindy Lee Synopsis: A Korean American disabled veteran rewrites his life and reflects on the power and connection of sharing pain.
I Wanna Be Directed by: Chaewon Suh Synopsis: Blind runner Woori has no choice but to team up with Lola, who only volunteered to compensate for failing grades.
There Tokyo Directed by: Haruka Motohashi Synopsis: There Tokyo is an autobiographical documentary centers around the director herself, a Japan-born expatriate, returning to Tokyo to visit her estranged and ailing mother.
More Dead Than Living Directed by: JT Doran Synopsis: Death comes for a widow who's happy to go but not without one last “magic" adventure with his estranged daughter.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 9:10am Monday, April 13 at 2:35pm Friday, April 17 at 9:30am
Prawn Bhuna United Kingdom Directed by: Howard Charles Synopsis: A meal at a restaurant. A taxi. And a kidnapping. Not necessarily in that order.
Broken Dawn South Korea Directed by: Hae-oh Park Synopsis: An elderly substitute driver navigates a long night in Seoul, confronting loneliness, dignity, and survival at dawn.
Dance Mom Canada Directed by: Chad Cole Synopsis: An uninvolved father gets swept up in the world of children's competitive dance.
Ivanko's Childhood United Kingdom Directed by: Vera Graziadei Synopsis: A Ukrainian refugee boy seems lost wandering around an English village, but he's on a mission to save his Motherland.
Over Australia Directed by: Duncan Ragg and Anna Phillips Synopsis: A father confronts his apathy when his son steals his boat and refuses to return until he's saved the world.
Screening Time(s): Sunday, April 12 at 11:45am Monday, April 13 at 4:40pm Saturday, April 18 at 9:15am
Heirlooms Canada Directed by: Dan Abramovici Synopsis: After her mother's passing, Jamie inherits an old family heirloom. Only to discover, heirlooms are better left alone.
Bidet Canada Directed by: James Brylowski Synopsis: A group of best friends are hunted by a possessed bidet.
A Few Questions United Kingdom Directed by: Michail Egglhoefer Synopsis: A mixed race man is interviewed by the police after a racial assault.
Ballad of an Immigrant with Memory (Balada de un inmigrante con memoria) Mexico Directed by: Sergio Muñoz Esquer Synopsis: An immigrant travels through surreal memories in Mexico to find the rosary his mother gave him when he left home
The Swing United Kingdom Directed by: Yaz & Haz Synopsis: Danny takes Simon on a roadtrip through their scenic childhood stomping grounds, in an ill-advised bid to lift his spirits.
Our Little Act of Rebellion Greece Directed by: Ranw Aso-Rashid Synopsis: A man recalls his encounter with a mysterious woman in 1970s Greece, at the height of military government rule.
Bag Ladies United Kingdom Directed by: Harry Syed Synopsis: A vintage influencer ruffles a well heeled fashionista for a peek at her iconic handbag in this comedy about obsession.
Screening Time(s): Monday, April 13 at 9:05pm Friday, April 17 at 11:10am Saturday, April 18 at 3:40pm
Southwest Sangria Directed by: Joseph Steely Synopsis: A dreamlike, stream-of-consciousness piece that recalls archetypal film imagery to reimagine the relationship between narrative and images.
The End of Nicole Kidman Directed by: Liz Manashil Synopsis: 2009: we shot a film based on a dream about Nicole Kidman, gender and artistic compromise. 2026: we edited it.
Tangled Directed by: Simran Sawhney Synopsis: A woman brushes her hair to soothe herself to sleep until a dream interrupts the ritual and forces confrontation.
Chicken Salad Directed by: CK Thornton Synopsis: A surreal cinema poem about a woman finding solace in her art.
Estrange Directed by: Lauren DeJolie Synopsis: She drives into darkness, leaving control, when a blinding light appears—deliverance, damnation, or something unexplained?
A Man in a Castle Loses His Mind Directed by: Dustin Little Synopsis: A man confined in a tower grapples with his slipping perception of time and the incessant chirp of a cricket.
BlueBeard GasLight Directed by: Kyra Miller Synopsis: A woman working on a puppet version of “Blue Beard” clocks that her partner is not to be trusted.
Where's My Coffee Cup? Directed by: Yehuda Sharim Synopsis: This story of John, who at 64 and still confined in a prison not designed for the aging, is a poignant demand for compassion and justice.
Asian American Pacific Islander Directed Shorts Run Time: 95 minutes
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 4:55pm Sunday, April 12 at 5:40pm Tuesday, April 14 at 10:05am
Taga Directed by: Jill Sachs Synopsis: When eco-volunteers scorn the customs of a remote mountain village, an ancient evil comes knocking.
SŪNNA Directed by: Radha Mehta Synopsis: When hearing loss shatters her identity, a musician is left in silence until echoes of memory help her reclaim herself.
Johann's Story: Rewriting Life Directed by: Cindy Lee Synopsis: A Korean American disabled veteran rewrites his life and reflects on the power and connection of sharing pain.
I Wanna Be Directed by: Chaewon Suh Synopsis: Blind runner Woori has no choice but to team up with Lola, who only volunteered to compensate for failing grades.
There Tokyo Directed by: Haruka Motohashi Synopsis: There Tokyo is an autobiographical documentary centers around the director herself, a Japan-born expatriate, returning to Tokyo to visit her estranged and ailing mother.
More Dead Than Living Directed by: JT Doran Synopsis: Death comes for a widow who's happy to go but not without one last “magic" adventure with his estranged daughter.
African American Directed Shorts Run Time: 90 minutes
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 2:05pm Sunday, April 12 at 4:00pm Tuesday, April 14 at 12:15pm
D!SoRd3rEd Directed by: Corey Allen Synopsis: A Black Patient Zero confronts history, memory, and the ghosts of a nation afraid of its own reflection.
the daughter Directed by: Mary Ann Anane Synopsis: A day at the beach turns sinister when ten-year-old Lana spies her father's violent interactions with a young woman.
Da Capo Directed by: Morgan Middleton Synopsis: Caregiver husband Johnny uses music to reach Esther through her Alzheimer’s, proving melodies endure even as her memories fade.
1-800-GET-SEXY Directed by: Sadé May Synopsis: Lonely phone rep Noor moonlights as a phone sex operator, nudged to chase her desires by a mysterious television shrink.
Ownership Directed by: Yvonne Huff Lee Synopsis: When an invitation to an antiques reality show unearths skeletons, three women are forced to take ownership of their reality.
Them That’s Not Directed by: Mekhai Lee Synopsis: A sudden prison furlough unexpectedly bonds an estranged father with his emotionally avoidant daughter at their matriarch’s repass.
Native American Directed Shorts Run Time: 85 minutes
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 4:20pm Sunday, April 12 at 10:50am Tuesday, April 14 at 2:20pm
My Message To You Directed by: ‘Wáats'asdíyei Joe Yates Synopsis:With fewer than a handful of fluent Haida speakers, Nayak'aq Yaahl (6) shares a message all in the Haida Language
Legend of Fry-Roti: Rise of the Dough Directed by: Sabrina Saleha Synopsis: A Navajo/Bengali niece kneads harmony when feuding aunties spark a frybread-vs-roti showdown, pushing her to create her own recipe.
When Girls Go Missing Directed by: Jeanette DeDios Synopsis: Indigenous woman finds herself alone in the woods during a party and encounters something strange.
Metamorphosis Directed by: Antonio Cavallo Synopsis: When a young man's grandpa turns into a giant caterpillar, he must change him back, or accept the new circumstances.
Frame-Less Directed by: William Wayne Synopsis: A hiking date turns sour when a robber holds them at gunpoint. But using a surreal advantage, Ben fights back.
Finding Fire Directed by: David J. Aberle Synopsis: A young Indigenous woman far from home confronts cultural disconnection, seeking sacred space, rediscovering purpose, and the fire within herself.
The Birth of the Crying Indian Directed by: Montana Cypress Synopsis: "The Birth of the Crying Indian" is a comedic retelling of how the famous crying Indian commercial came to be.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 11:40am Sunday, April 12 at 9:30am Tuesday, April 14 at 4:25pm
Handwoven Directed by: Nikyle Begay Synopsis: A lyrical portrait of Nikyle Begay, a nonbinary shepherd-weaver, preserving ancestral lifeways through the traditional art of weaving.
Compas Directed by: Aric Lopez; Daniel Roman Synopsis: A center of day laborers builds community through storytelling in a time of hostility that aims to break them apart.
La Estrella Directed by: Gabriela Díaz Arp Synopsis: La Estrella is a tender portrait of a tight-knit Mexican-American family grappling with the entrance of fentanyl into their community.
Amanece Directed by: Julián Fernández Garnik Synopsis: A 9-year-old boy is forced to mature after a striking event tears at the fabric of safety in Puerto Rico.
Sirens Directed by: Maria Valdez Synopsis: A single mother seeks justice for the murder of her son, but first she must reconcile with her own past.
Enseñame Como Morir (Show Me How To Die) Directed by: Gerardo Maravilla Synopsis: A grieving Mexican-American woman becomes fascinated with learning what it feels like to die. El Marciano Directed by: Daniel Rocha Synopsis: Elena attempts to tell her son, Rico, that their family is undocumented. Her daughter Ava, however, has other plans.
Screening Time(s): Wednesday, April 15 at 12:25pm Saturday, April 18 at 5:50pm Sunday, April 19 at 9:10am
The Long-Reigning King of Rollercastle Skateland Directed by: David Hull Synopsis: The long-tenured manager of an aging, castle-themed roller rink faces the final days of business for his beloved little empire. A King's Curtain Directed by: Grant M. Johnson Synopsis: A woman's love for her father is tested when his descent into Alzheimer's jeopardizes her chance for a coveted promotion.
Such A Pretty Girl Directed by: Deborah Puette Synopsis: Meg's twelve-year-old uncovers a relic from Meg's childhood, and their family will never be the same. i want to go to moscow Directed by: Sarah Baskin Synopsis: A disillusioned actor spirals when she's thrown into a classroom of kids rehearsing her favorite play, Chekhov's THREE SISTERS.
OLIVE Directed by: Tom Koch Synopsis: While caring for his grandmother, Sam begins to question the nature of their relationship.
SilverSizzle Directed by: Brian Russell Synopsis: Two recent widowers enlist the aid of a cemetery caretaker to find new love among widows visiting their departed spouses.
Screening Time(s): Wednesday, April 15 at 2:20pm Friday, April 17 at 4:00pm Sunday, April 19 at 11:25am
The Ride Directed by: Slava Denisov Synopsis: 1976 Plymouth reflects on decades of human life, witnessing freedom, temptation, and redemption as it passes from owner to owner.
May I Put You On Hold? Directed by: Ash Blodgett Synopsis: Liz is accidentally transferred to the Afterlife, and must outwit cosmic bureaucracy if she wants to get back to Earth. I Often Dream of Trains Directed by: Billy Baker & David Gianopoulos Synopsis: A lost man tries to find his way home.
Sugar Directed by: Eden Ohayon, Alexandra Nedved Synopsis: When a rookie sugar baby meets a first-time sugar daddy, their encounter becomes intimate in a way she didn’t expect.
The Callback Directed by: Kara Herold Synopsis: A comedy about following a dream into a waking nightmare.
Another Day in the West Directed by: Matthew Sliger Synopsis: The true cycle of the West reveals itself when a cowboy steps up to defend the honor of the woman he loves.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 10:55am Sunday, April 12 at 11:05am Wednesday, April 15 at 9:10pm
Bench Seats Directed by: Courtney DeStefano Synopsis: When an argument with her wife lands Dani at a crossroads, she reflects on her memories of one transformational summer.
Daddies Boi Directed by: Jason Avezzano Synopsis: As youth and options dry up, two aging sugar babies plunge into the "desire economy” through an app: Daddies Boi.
MascLooking Directed by: Jonathan Hammond Synopsis: After two friends banter over using Brindr, one is left chatting with a mysterious stranger. And he’s getting closer…
The Next Day Directed by: Jonathan Wolfe Synopsis: A gay man confronts his fiancé the day after a traumatic event, forcing him to question their upcoming wedding plans.
Dérive Directed by: Lianne Sonia Walden Synopsis: A reclusive publisher is transformed by chance encounters during a Surrealist odyssey across NYC to release her ex-wife’s ashes.
Wall Udder Directed by: Alexandra Hayden Synopsis: A dissatisfied woman confronts repressed feelings of malaise after her partner comes home smelling like milk.
Screening Time(s): Thursday, April 16 at 12:10pm Saturday, April 18 at 1:35pm Sunday, April 19 at 11:15am
Violet Vendetta Directed by: Ted Hayden Synopsis: Wannabe filmmakers Luke and Hunter go to ridiculous lengths to save their movie from a shady executive producer.
The Dishwasher Directed by: Alyssa Rallo Bennett Synopsis: In a fusion NYC restaurant, a humble dishwasher’s quiet strength guides immigrant workers through hardship, honoring unseen resilience and dignity.
SOFT BOIL Directed by: Alec Goldberg Synopsis: Lulu takes a job as a nanny only to discover that her new boss isn't who she expected.
The Seeing Eye Dog Who Saw too Much Directed by: Eric Jackowitz Synopsis: “A blind violinist’s seeing eye dog witnesses a murder…and it’s up to this good boy to solve it.”
Eaton Alive Directed by: Jeannette Godoy Synopsis: A short film about survival, marriage and the absurd RV life on a fire-scorched lot.
A Peculiar Morning Directed by: Emmylou Diaz Synopsis: Inspired by a chance encounter, a grieving woman grapples with her agoraphobia to see what lies outside her lonely world.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 9:10am Thursday, April 16 at 2:20pm Sunday, April 19 at 5:15pm
Malignant Practice Directed by: Kristin Catalano Synopsis: Malignant Practice is an animated film about a woman’s missed breast cancer diagnosis, revealing healthcare system flaws and self-advocacy importance.
Special CelEd Directed by: Christopher J. Cormier Synopsis: Celebrities and cultural influencers’ connection to special education and disability.
Over the Kitchen Table Directed by: Nisha Burton Synopsis: Over the Kitchen Table tells the untold story of the founding of the battered women's movement.
Screening Time(s): Sunday, April 12 at 9:00am Thursday, April 16 at 4:25pm Sunday, April 19 at 9:00am
Family Matters: John Driskell Hopkins Directed by: Alina Vission Synopsis: After ALS diagnosis, Grammy-winning musician John Driskell Hopkins rallies band, family, and fans, transforming heartbreak into hope, purpose, and legacy.
The Blind Reggaetonera Directed by: River Zhihui Zhang Synopsis: A blind reggaeton singer defies barriers to pursue her music dreams, proving that passion and determination transcend physical limitations.
Diminishing Returns Directed by: Colin Whitman Synopsis: Ernesto hunts the streets of LA searching for enough recyclables to pay for his daughter’s chemo back in the Philippines.
The Lone Wolf Directed by: Travis Thompson Synopsis: Brazilian ultrarunner Manuela Vilaseca's quest for the Triple Crown of Endurance Racing
Screening Time(s): Thursday, April 16 at 6:50pm Friday, April 17 at 4:55pm Saturday, April 18 at 9:00am
[BLEEP] 'EM! Directed by: Andrés "Flash" Otalora Synopsis: When a deadline approaches, a struggling screenwriter faces their inner perfectionist in an emotional drive to finish the perfect script.
MINT Directed by: Tomasz Grabowski Synopsis: Set in a world without sound, this silent experimental film explores Deaf perception, intimacy, and communication beyond hearing.
Eremos Trilogy Directed by: Sam Arnold Synopsis: The first self-funded Deaf short film anthology: three Deaf protagonists face modern isolation, linked by eremos (“solitude”).
Don't Look Directed by: Danny Murphy Synopsis: A group of friends play ‘Don’t Look,’ unleashing deadly spirits and facing their worst fears to survive.
Dinner Table Syndrome Directed by: Charlie Ainsworth Synopsis: A deaf boy armed with “miracle cure” cochlear implants navigates a Thanksgiving dinner with strangers who call themselves his family.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 2:10pm Friday, April 17 at 9:20am Sunday, April 19 at 1:30pm
Draft Paper Directed by: Olivia Moon Synopsis: An unfulfilled fashion designer faces the moral implications of creating art when given an intriguing opportunity during World War II. From Jazz to Jackboots Directed by: Justin Stephenson Synopsis: A study in censorship – Dance/Music film based on 10 Dance band rules and regulations from Nazi Germany. HOLY HEAVÊNESS Directed by: Farnoush Abedi, Negah Fardiar Synopsis: The unbearable lightness of the death of loved ones. There are wounds in life that eat away at you like leprosy. The weight of the death of loved ones sometimes becomes so overwhelming that to get rid of this weight another birth is inevitable. Waiting for the Crash Directed by: Ben Wild, Debuchelon Synopsis: Animated satire on accidental nuclear war and the state of modern society with music from Debuchelon.
WEB 5000.0 Directed by: Sishir Bommakanti Synopsis: WEB 5000.0 is a mythological retelling about the rise and fall of The Internet. Far in the future.
The Robe of Rainbow Feathers Directed by: Wesley Price Synopsis: The story traces a girl whose bond with the natural world shows her that love and gratitude outshine fear.
On Saint Nicholas' Eve Directed by: Emy Mirel Ivasca Synopsis: A boy remembers a Saint Nicholas evening spent with his father.
Fangio: Courage or Destiny (Coraje o Destino) Directed by: Nicolas P. Villarreal Synopsis: Fangio: Courage or Destiny follows a boy confronting destiny choices, inspired by F1 driver Juan Manuel Fangio’s leg burns, 1955.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 9:10am Monday, April 13 at 2:35pm Friday, April 17 at 9:30am
Prawn Bhuna United Kingdom Directed by: Howard Charles Synopsis: A meal at a restaurant. A taxi. And a kidnapping. Not necessarily in that order.
Broken Dawn South Korea Directed by: Hae-oh Park Synopsis: An elderly substitute driver navigates a long night in Seoul, confronting loneliness, dignity, and survival at dawn.
Dance Mom Canada Directed by: Chad Cole Synopsis: An uninvolved father gets swept up in the world of children's competitive dance.
Ivanko's Childhood United Kingdom Directed by: Vera Graziadei Synopsis: A Ukrainian refugee boy seems lost wandering around an English village, but he's on a mission to save his Motherland.
Over Australia Directed by: Duncan Ragg and Anna Phillips Synopsis: A father confronts his apathy when his son steals his boat and refuses to return until he's saved the world.
Screening Time(s): Monday, April 13 at 9:05pm Friday, April 17 at 11:10am Saturday, April 18 at 3:40pm
Southwest Sangria Directed by: Joseph Steely Synopsis: A dreamlike, stream-of-consciousness piece that recalls archetypal film imagery to reimagine the relationship between narrative and images.
The End of Nicole Kidman Directed by: Liz Manashil Synopsis: 2009: we shot a film based on a dream about Nicole Kidman, gender and artistic compromise. 2026: we edited it.
Tangled Directed by: Simran Sawhney Synopsis: A woman brushes her hair to soothe herself to sleep until a dream interrupts the ritual and forces confrontation.
Chicken Salad Directed by: CK Thornton Synopsis: A surreal cinema poem about a woman finding solace in her art.
Estrange Directed by: Lauren DeJolie Synopsis: She drives into darkness, leaving control, when a blinding light appears—deliverance, damnation, or something unexplained?
A Man in a Castle Loses His Mind Directed by: Dustin Little Synopsis: A man confined in a tower grapples with his slipping perception of time and the incessant chirp of a cricket.
BlueBeard GasLight Directed by: Kyra Miller Synopsis: A woman working on a puppet version of “Blue Beard” clocks that her partner is not to be trusted.
Where's My Coffee Cup? Directed by: Yehuda Sharim Synopsis: This story of John, who at 64 and still confined in a prison not designed for the aging, is a poignant demand for compassion and justice.
Screening Time(s): Wednesday, April 15 at 2:20pm Friday, April 17 at 4:00pm Sunday, April 19 at 11:25am
The Ride Directed by: Slava Denisov Synopsis: 1976 Plymouth reflects on decades of human life, witnessing freedom, temptation, and redemption as it passes from owner to owner.
May I Put You On Hold? Directed by: Ash Blodgett Synopsis: Liz is accidentally transferred to the Afterlife, and must outwit cosmic bureaucracy if she wants to get back to Earth. I Often Dream of Trains Directed by: Billy Baker & David Gianopoulos Synopsis: A lost man tries to find his way home.
Sugar Directed by: Eden Ohayon, Alexandra Nedved Synopsis: When a rookie sugar baby meets a first-time sugar daddy, their encounter becomes intimate in a way she didn’t expect. The Callback Directed by: Kara Herold Synopsis: A comedy about following a dream into a waking nightmare.
Another Day in the West Directed by: Matthew Sliger Synopsis: The true cycle of the West reveals itself when a cowboy steps up to defend the honor of the woman he loves.
Screening Time(s): Thursday, April 16 at 6:50pm Friday, April 17 at 4:55pm Saturday, April 18 at 9:00am
[BLEEP] 'EM! Directed by: Andrés "Flash" Otalora Synopsis: When a deadline approaches, a struggling screenwriter faces their inner perfectionist in an emotional drive to finish the perfect script.
MINT Directed by: Tomasz Grabowski Synopsis: Set in a world without sound, this silent experimental film explores Deaf perception, intimacy, and communication beyond hearing.
Eremos Trilogy Directed by: Sam Arnold Synopsis: The first self-funded Deaf short film anthology: three Deaf protagonists face modern isolation, linked by eremos (“solitude”).
Don't Look Directed by: Danny Murphy Synopsis: A group of friends play ‘Don’t Look,’ unleashing deadly spirits and facing their worst fears to survive.
Dinner Table Syndrome Directed by: Charlie Ainsworth Synopsis: A deaf boy armed with “miracle cure” cochlear implants navigates a Thanksgiving dinner with strangers who call themselves his family.
Screening Time(s): Thursday, April 16 at 6:50pm Friday, April 17 at 4:55pm Saturday, April 18 at 9:00am
[BLEEP] 'EM! Directed by: Andrés "Flash" Otalora Synopsis: When a deadline approaches, a struggling screenwriter faces their inner perfectionist in an emotional drive to finish the perfect script.
MINT Directed by: Tomasz Grabowski Synopsis: Set in a world without sound, this silent experimental film explores Deaf perception, intimacy, and communication beyond hearing.
Eremos Trilogy Directed by: Sam Arnold Synopsis: The first self-funded Deaf short film anthology: three Deaf protagonists face modern isolation, linked by eremos (“solitude”).
Don't Look Directed by: Danny Murphy Synopsis: A group of friends play ‘Don’t Look,’ unleashing deadly spirits and facing their worst fears to survive.
Dinner Table Syndrome Directed by: Charlie Ainsworth Synopsis: A deaf boy armed with “miracle cure” cochlear implants navigates a Thanksgiving dinner with strangers who call themselves his family.
Screening Time(s): Sunday, April 12 at 11:45am Monday, April 13 at 4:40pm Saturday, April 18 at 9:15am
Heirlooms Canada Directed by: Dan Abramovici Synopsis: After her mother's passing, Jamie inherits an old family heirloom. Only to discover, heirlooms are better left alone.
Bidet Canada Directed by: James Brylowski Synopsis: A group of best friends are hunted by a possessed bidet.
A Few Questions United Kingdom Directed by: Michail Egglhoefer Synopsis: A mixed race man is interviewed by the police after a racial assault.
Ballad of an Immigrant with Memory (Balada de un inmigrante con memoria) Mexico Directed by: Sergio Muñoz Esquer Synopsis: An immigrant travels through surreal memories in Mexico to find the rosary his mother gave him when he left home
The Swing United Kingdom Directed by: Yaz & Haz Synopsis: Danny takes Simon on a roadtrip through their scenic childhood stomping grounds, in an ill-advised bid to lift his spirits.
Our Little Act of Rebellion Greece Directed by: Ranw Aso-Rashid Synopsis: A man recalls his encounter with a mysterious woman in 1970s Greece, at the height of military government rule.
Bag Ladies United Kingdom Directed by: Harry Syed Synopsis: A vintage influencer ruffles a well heeled fashionista for a peek at her iconic handbag in this comedy about obsession.
Arizona Student Film Festival Run Time: 105 minutes
Screening Time: Saturday, April 18 at 11:15am
Nothing Crazy East Valley Institute of Technology Directed by: Jamison Rogers Synopsis: A teenage boy goes into an abandoned school where he finds a watch that shifts his reality.
Fly Swatter Mountain Ridge High School Directed by: Cole Reid Synopsis: A boy’s relaxing summer day is interrupted by the untimely appearance of a housefly.
Patjuk Phillips Academy Directed by: Katherine Hee-Yeon Tae Synopsis: From Seoul to Southwest, a Korean American teen follows her memories of patjuk, weaving Korean and Indigenous stories to redefine the meaning of home.
The Christmas Miracle Mesquite High School Directed by: David Holguin Synopsis: On Christmas Eve, Caleb sacrifices everything to buy Stella a gift, but magic rescues their night with wonder forever changed.
Zombies? Madison Highland Prep Directed by: Lia Rothman Synopsis: A man must make a difficult decision when trapped in a bathroom.
A News Worst Nightmare Buena High School Directed by: Franklin Quinn Synopsis: A student news group broadcast gets into a bit of trouble as their show goes off the rails.
A Slow Decision Arizona College Prep Directed by: Akshaj Padamata Synopsis: A kid goes to a gas station but his slow decision results in a sad ending
Who Let You In? Millennium High School Directed by: Ryan Hodges Synopsis: A young girl senses an unseen entity outside her house, only to realize it follows her wherever she moves.
FISHBOWL Centennial Highschool Directed by: Hana Taylor Synopsis: A painter searches for a reference for her aquatic painting…but didn’t know the fish she bought is magical.
Ripple Effect East Valley Institute of Technology Directed by: Abi Gregory Synopsis: The ripple effect of two people who once loved each other simply growing apart.
Again and Again Copper Creek Elementary School Directed by: Jack Reid Synopsis: A boy’s Sunday cleaning takes a turn for the worst as he is forced to live this day Again and Again.
The Way Love Burns Millennium High School Directed by: Aeris Van Sant Synopsis: A boyfriend’s intense love becomes clouded by spiraling thoughts and misunderstandings, nearly costing his relationship before clarity brings them together.
Baker’s Man Directed by: Benjamin Christopher Webbe Synopsis: Former patty-cake player Patrick Baker struggles with his identity on who he is, and if he should return to patty-caking.
Lemons East Valley Institute of Technology Directed by: Sophia Chavez Synopsis: A low level pickpocketers plans are ruined when the suitcase he had stolen has an unexpected surprise in it.
A Better World Sunnyslope High School Directed by: Gregory Royce Synopsis: A grieving son enters a parallel universe where his mother lives, forcing him to choose between comfort and painful reality.
Nu-U Corona del Sol High School Directed by: Evelyn Ellis Synopsis: A teenager wakes up to a world that thinks she's someone else.
The Refusers Directed by: Wiep Teeuwisse Synopsis: A mattress laments. An old paper dances.
Tremolo Directed by: Leondard Mink Synopsis: A deaf boy and his father must find common language after a long time apart.
Swimming with Butterflies Directed by: Karl Stetler Synopsis: After missing bronze by 1/100th of a second at the 2016 Paralympic games, Austin-based swimmer Lizzi Smith shares what’s bringing her back to the pool—and bringing hope to the next generation
The Drifting Guitar Directed by: Sophie Roze Synopsis: A tie-selling weasel roams the countryside and decides to take a chance in the forest thanks to the unconditional help of a hedgehog.
Screening Time(s): Thursday, April 16 at 12:10pm Saturday, April 18 at 1:35pm Sunday, April 19 at 11:15am
Violet Vendetta Directed by: Ted Hayden Synopsis: Wannabe filmmakers Luke and Hunter go to ridiculous lengths to save their movie from a shady executive producer.
The Dishwasher Directed by: Alyssa Rallo Bennett Synopsis: In a fusion NYC restaurant, a humble dishwasher’s quiet strength guides immigrant workers through hardship, honoring unseen resilience and dignity.
SOFT BOIL Directed by: Alec Goldberg Synopsis: Lulu takes a job as a nanny only to discover that her new boss isn't who she expected. The Seeing Eye Dog Who Saw too Much Directed by: Eric Jackowitz Synopsis: “A blind violinist’s seeing eye dog witnesses a murder…and it’s up to this good boy to solve it.”
Eaton Alive Directed by: Jeannette Godoy Synopsis: A short film about survival, marriage and the absurd RV life on a fire-scorched lot
A Peculiar Morning Directed by: Emmylou Diaz Synopsis: Inspired by a chance encounter, a grieving woman grapples with her agoraphobia to see what lies outside her lonely world.
Screening Time(s): Monday, April 13 at 9:05pm Friday, April 17 at 11:10am Saturday, April 18 at 3:40pm
Southwest Sangria Directed by: Joseph Steely Synopsis: A dreamlike, stream-of-consciousness piece that recalls archetypal film imagery to reimagine the relationship between narrative and images.
The End of Nicole Kidman Directed by: Liz Manashil Synopsis: 2009: we shot a film based on a dream about Nicole Kidman, gender and artistic compromise. 2026: we edited it.
Tangled Directed by: Simran Sawhney Synopsis: A woman brushes her hair to soothe herself to sleep until a dream interrupts the ritual and forces confrontation.
Chicken Salad Directed by: CK Thornton Synopsis: A surreal cinema poem about a woman finding solace in her art.
Estrange Directed by: Lauren DeJolie Synopsis: She drives into darkness, leaving control, when a blinding light appears—deliverance, damnation, or something unexplained?
A Man in a Castle Loses His Mind Directed by: Dustin Little Synopsis: A man confined in a tower grapples with his slipping perception of time and the incessant chirp of a cricket.
BlueBeard GasLight Directed by: Kyra Miller Synopsis: A woman working on a puppet version of “Blue Beard” clocks that her partner is not to be trusted.
Where's My Coffee Cup? Directed by: Yehuda Sharim Synopsis: This story of John, who at 64 and still confined in a prison not designed for the aging, is a poignant demand for compassion and justice.
Screening Time(s): Wednesday, April 15 at 12:25pm Saturday, April 18 at 5:50pm Sunday, April 19 at 9:10am
The Long-Reigning King of Rollercastle Skateland Directed by: David Hull Synopsis: The long-tenured manager of an aging, castle-themed roller rink faces the final days of business for his beloved little empire.
A King's Curtain Directed by: Grant M. Johnson Synopsis: A woman's love for her father is tested when his descent into Alzheimer's jeopardizes her chance for a coveted promotion.
Such A Pretty Girl Directed by: Deborah Puette Synopsis: Meg's twelve-year-old uncovers a relic from Meg's childhood, and their family will never be the same.
i want to go to moscow Directed by: Sarah Baskin Synopsis: A disillusioned actor spirals when she's thrown into a classroom of kids rehearsing her favorite play, Chekhov's THREE SISTERS.
OLIVE Directed by: Tom Koch Synopsis: While caring for his grandmother, Sam begins to question the nature of their relationship.
SilverSizzle Directed by: Brian Russell Synopsis: Two recent widowers enlist the aid of a cemetery caretaker to find new love among widows visiting their departed spouses.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 8:20pm Saturday, April 18 at 10:00pm Sunday, April 19 at 1:15pm
Tomato Soup Directed by: Brendan Michael Conant Synopsis: Dodd is a freshly signed baseball player struggling to say goodbye to his hometown, desperate for a reason to stay.
Luca and Johnny Directed by: Antonio Ducrot Synopsis: A young father tries to balance raising his child with chasing his dream of becoming an actor.
Naploletanità Directed by: Miranda Patterson, Owen Atienza, Sophie Flater, Annabelle Avoilio Synopsis: Seven vignettes reveal the creative, contradictory heart of modern Naples.
Proscenium Directed by: Georgia Evensen Synopsis: Proscenium follows a crew shooting a dance film, and the nervous young director’s struggle to connect with the lead dancer.
Grossness of Closeness Directed by: Cathal Power Synopsis: A lonely bachelor rents a family and for a while, it's wonderful, but it's not long before things get weird.
Screening Time(s): Sunday, April 12 at 9:00am Thursday, April 16 at 4:25pm Sunday, April 19 at 9:00am
Family Matters: John Driskell Hopkins Directed by: Alina Vission Synopsis: After ALS diagnosis, Grammy-winning musician John Driskell Hopkins rallies band, family, and fans, transforming heartbreak into hope, purpose, and legacy.
The Blind Reggaetonera Directed by: River Zhihui Zhang Synopsis: A blind reggaeton singer defies barriers to pursue her music dreams, proving that passion and determination transcend physical limitations.
Diminishing Returns Directed by: Colin Whitman Synopsis: Ernesto hunts the streets of LA searching for enough recyclables to pay for his daughter’s chemo back in the Philippines.
The Lone Wolf Directed by: Travis Thompson Synopsis: Brazilian ultrarunner Manuela Vilaseca's quest for the Triple Crown of Endurance Racing.
Screening Time(s): Wednesday, April 15 at 12:25pm Saturday, April 18 at 5:50pm Sunday, April 19 at 9:10am
The Long-Reigning King of Rollercastle Skateland Directed by: David Hull Synopsis: The long-tenured manager of an aging, castle-themed roller rink faces the final days of business for his beloved little empire.
A King's Curtain Directed by: Grant M. Johnson Synopsis: A woman's love for her father is tested when his descent into Alzheimer's jeopardizes her chance for a coveted promotion.
Such A Pretty Girl Directed by: Deborah Puette Synopsis: Meg's twelve-year-old uncovers a relic from Meg's childhood, and their family will never be the same.
i want to go to moscow Directed by: Sarah Baskin Synopsis: A disillusioned actor spirals when she's thrown into a classroom of kids rehearsing her favorite play, Chekhov's THREE SISTERS.
OLIVE Directed by: Tom Koch Synopsis: While caring for his grandmother, Sam begins to question the nature of their relationship.
SilverSizzle Directed by: Brian Russell Synopsis: Two recent widowers enlist the aid of a cemetery caretaker to find new love among widows visiting their departed spouses.
Screening Time(s): Thursday, April 16 at 12:10pm Saturday, April 18 at 1:35pm Sunday, April 19 at 11:15am
Violet Vendetta Directed by: Ted Hayden Synopsis: Wannabe filmmakers Luke and Hunter go to ridiculous lengths to save their movie from a shady executive producer.
The Dishwasher Directed by: Alyssa Rallo Bennett Synopsis: In a fusion NYC restaurant, a humble dishwasher’s quiet strength guides immigrant workers through hardship, honoring unseen resilience and dignity.
SOFT BOIL Directed by: Alec Goldberg Synopsis: Lulu takes a job as a nanny only to discover that her new boss isn't who she expected.
The Seeing Eye Dog Who Saw too Much Directed by: Eric Jackowitz Synopsis: “A blind violinist’s seeing eye dog witnesses a murder…and it’s up to this good boy to solve it.”
Eaton Alive Directed by: Jeannette Godoy Synopsis: A short film about survival, marriage and the absurd RV life on a fire-scorched lot.
A Peculiar Morning Directed by: Emmylou Diaz Synopsis: Inspired by a chance encounter, a grieving woman grapples with her agoraphobia to see what lies outside her lonely world.
Screening Time(s): Wednesday, April 15 at 2:20pm Friday, April 17 at 4:00pm Sunday, April 19 at 11:25am
The Ride Directed by: Slava Denisov Synopsis: 1976 Plymouth reflects on decades of human life, witnessing freedom, temptation, and redemption as it passes from owner to owner.
May I Put You On Hold? Directed by: Ash Blodgett Synopsis: Liz is accidentally transferred to the Afterlife, and must outwit cosmic bureaucracy if she wants to get back to Earth.
I Often Dream of Trains Directed by: Billy Baker & David Gianopoulos Synopsis: A lost man tries to find his way home.
Sugar Directed by: Eden Ohayon, Alexandra Nedved Synopsis: When a rookie sugar baby meets a first-time sugar daddy, their encounter becomes intimate in a way she didn’t expect.
The Callback Directed by: Kara Herold Synopsis: A comedy about following a dream into a waking nightmare.
Another Day in the West Directed by: Matthew Sliger Synopsis: The true cycle of the West reveals itself when a cowboy steps up to defend the honor of the woman he loves.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 8:20pm Saturday, April 18 at 10:00pm Sunday, April 19 at 1:15pm
Tomato Soup Directed by: Brendan Michael Conant Synopsis: Dodd is a freshly signed baseball player struggling to say goodbye to his hometown, desperate for a reason to stay.
Luca and Johnny Directed by: Antonio Ducrot Synopsis: A young father tries to balance raising his child with chasing his dream of becoming an actor.
Naploletanità Directed by: Miranda Patterson, Owen Atienza, Sophie Flater, Annabelle Avoilio Synopsis: Seven vignettes reveal the creative, contradictory heart of modern Naples.
Proscenium Directed by: Georgia Evensen Synopsis: Proscenium follows a crew shooting a dance film, and the nervous young director’s struggle to connect with the lead dancer.
Grossness of Closeness Directed by: Cathal Power Synopsis: A lonely bachelor rents a family and for a while, it's wonderful, but it's not long before things get weird.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 2:10pm Friday, April 17 at 9:20am Sunday, April 19 at 1:30pm
Draft Paper Directed by: Olivia Moon Synopsis: An unfulfilled fashion designer faces the moral implications of creating art when given an intriguing opportunity during World War II.
From Jazz to Jackboots Directed by: Justin Stephenson Synopsis: A study in censorship – Dance/Music film based on 10 Dance band rules and regulations from Nazi Germany.
HOLY HEAVÊNESS Directed by: Farnoush Abedi, Negah Fardiar Synopsis: The unbearable lightness of the death of loved ones. There are wounds in life that eat away at you like leprosy. The weight of the death of loved ones sometimes becomes so overwhelming that to get rid of this weight another birth is inevitable.
Waiting for the Crash Directed by: Ben Wild, Debuchelon Synopsis: Animated satire on accidental nuclear war and the state of modern society with music from Debuchelon.
WEB 5000.0 Directed by: Sishir Bommakanti Synopsis: WEB 5000.0 is a mythological retelling about the rise and fall of The Internet. Far in the future.
The Robe of Rainbow Feathers Directed by: Wesley Price Synopsis: The story traces a girl whose bond with the natural world shows her that love and gratitude outshine fear.
On Saint Nicholas' Eve Directed by: Emy Mirel Ivasca Synopsis: A boy remembers a Saint Nicholas evening spent with his father.
Fangio: Courage or Destiny (Coraje o Destino) Directed by: Nicolas P. Villarreal Synopsis: Fangio: Courage or Destiny follows a boy confronting destiny choices, inspired by F1 driver Juan Manuel Fangio’s leg burns, 1955.
Screening Time(s): Friday, April 10 at 4:25 Saturday, April 11 at 6:20pm Sunday, April 19 at 3:15pm
Bukra Directed by: Alex Aljouni Synopsis: A Syrian refugee must race to claim a prize and play one final game with her friend before he’s gone.
California is Burning Directed by: Bennett Curran Synopsis: In a poetic story of resilience, Altadena residents and first responders recall the damages and response after the Eaton Fire.
Terroir Directed by: Casey Rogerson Synopsis: A young wine critic and her friends become the target of a masked killer.
Debt I Owe Directed by: Zane Rizvi-Riemer Synopsis: Burdened by gambling debts, a Pakistani-American widower searches for redemption while struggling to be a good father for his daughters.
Underground Sounds: The New Thousand Story Directed by: Emma Keatley Synopsis: Inside the mind of mesmerizing NYC violinist Adrian Jusdanis of New Thousand, joined by drummer Alan Zavodsky, delivering electrifying performances.
Screening Time(s): Saturday, April 11 at 9:10am Thursday, April 16 at 2:20pm Sunday, April 19 at 5:15pm
Malignant Practice Directed by: Kristin Catalano Synopsis: Malignant Practice is an animated film about a woman’s missed breast cancer diagnosis, revealing healthcare system flaws and self-advocacy importance.
Special CelEd Directed by: Christopher J. Cormier Synopsis: Celebrities and cultural influencers’ connection to special education and disability.
Over the Kitchen Table Directed by: Nisha Burton Synopsis: Over the Kitchen Table tells the untold story of the founding of the battered women's movement.
