2024-2025 Annual Report | Denver Film

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Denver Film Festival (DFF) Artistic Director Matthew Campbell with Jeremiah Daniels, star of Color Book, winner of the DFF American Indie Award

Our Mission

Denver Film creates entertaining and transformative experiences for the Colorado community through the power of diverse voices in film.

A Letter From the CEO

Dear Film Lovers,

Thank you for helping Denver Film thrive in 2024. Because of your support and generosity, we welcomed over 160,000 attendees, introduced new audiences to the power of film, deepened our connections across the city, and amplified stories that reflect the full spectrum of our community.

This year, our volunteers contributed thousands of hours, and our growing membership community continued to fuel our mission. As independent theaters nationwide face mounting challenges, your belief in our work helps keep the only nonprofit cinema on the Front Range alive and vibrant.

In 2024, we celebrated 16 years of CinemaQ and launched the BLQ program in partnership with Black Pride Colorado, a powerful new platform dedicated to uplifting Black queer voices. Film on the Rocks once again united tens of thousands of fans under the stars at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. And the 47th Denver Film Festival proved its global relevance, premiering major titles, spotlighting local talent, and welcoming celebrated filmmakers and artists to share their stories with our city.

We also expanded our network of community and cultural partners, working alongside mission-aligned organizations to broaden access and representation in our programs. And thanks to generous donors, sponsors, and grantmakers, we secured critical funding to support artist development, youth programs, and year-round screenings that make independent film accessible to all.

Looking ahead, we’ve begun planning for a major milestone: Denver Film’s 50th anniversary in 2027. In preparation, we are investing in the long-term sustainability and vitality of our home, the Sie FilmCenter. With new projection equipment and technology upgrades underway, we’re focused on enhancing accessibility, comfort, and experience—ensuring our theater remains a welcoming, world-class destination for film lovers of all backgrounds. These investments are just the beginning of a multi-year effort to honor our past, strengthen our foundation, and imagine what the next 50 years of cinema in Denver can be.

Cheers to an extraordinary year and an even brighter future for independent film in Colorado.

With gratitude,

Denver Film CEO Kevin Smith shakes hands with Virgil Williams, winner of the Denver Film Festival’s 2024 Excellence in Writing Award for the festival’s Opening Night film, The Piano Lesson

Who We Are

Denver’s Only Nonprofit, Community-Owned Theater

We personally curate independent, arthouse, and retrospective titles, keeping the spirit of cinema alive. Loss of beloved theaters across Denver highlights the essential role of the Sie FilmCenter.

The money that we make goes right back into the Sie FilmCenter:

• We don’t have shareholders that we need to appease or pay

• Our only stakeholder is our local audience

• Your support is what drives everything and puts it on the screen

Sie FilmCenter

Year-round home for film lovers, the heart of Denver Film’s community

Denver’s Only Independent Cinema

50K+ attendees

Denver Film Festival

Our flagship festival, bringing Hollywood

25K+ attendees

Film on the Rocks

Movies, music, and comedy at

30K+ attendees

CinemaQ

16 years of celebrating LGBTQ+ storytelling and community building

Films by and about women, for all

Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival

Co-presented with Colorado Dragon Boat, a relationship that empowers DF to serve the AANHPI community authentically

Summer Scream

Denver Film’s only annual fundraising event at the Iconic Lakeside Amusement park

Denver Silent Film Festival

Educational and entertaining classics and lesser-known, rare and restored silent films with live musical accompaniment

What We Do

By the Numbers

In a rapidly changing cultural landscape, Denver Film remains a dynamic force—connecting audiences, championing diverse voices, and fostering a vibrant film community. These numbers reflect the reach, dedication, and passion that drive our mission forward.

Programmatic

Through robust programming, digital engagement, and strong community support, Denver Film remains a cornerstone in the Denver community. Fueling artistic expression, fostering community connection, and amplifying diverse voices. These numbers tell a story of growth, resilience, and the power of film to transform lives.

Members & Volunteers

Members Volunteers

4.2K $253K+ 363 4.2K Members Annual Giving from Members

+25% from 2023

+3.7% from 2023 Volunteer Hours (Valued at $163K) +13.5% from 2023

86 Visiting Filmmakers & Special Guests

165K+ Attendees

494 Films Shown 2.8K+ Total Screenings

Digital Impact

10.3M

Website Views +238% from FY 2024

1.4M

Video Views +620% from FY 2024

135K+

54K+ Social Media Impressions Social Followers

Email Subscribers

17.6M+

Programming Spotlights:

Reflecting on 2024

Sie FilmCenter Artistic Director Keith Garcia being interviewed during Denver Film’s annual “Brightest Night in Hollywood” celebration

Sie FilmCenter

Attracted new audiences and strengthened the Sie FilmCenter as a community hub.

Through transformative stories and community-focused programming, Denver Film has become more than just a venue; it’s a cultural force. From celebrating underrepresented voices to revitalizing local arthouse and independent cinema, our impact is felt both in Denver and beyond. These stories reflect the power of film to connect, inspire, and transform, creating an enduring legacy of 47 years that we’re proud to build upon.

Denver Film Festival

The 47th Denver Film Festival (DFF47) was a standout celebration of film, attracting over 26,000 attendees and generating more than 20 million digital impressions. With 250 screenings, 187 films, and appearances featuring stars like Patricia Clarkson, Anthony Mackie, and Joan Chen, the festival provided an opportunity for our diverse community to connect with other film lovers through resonant stories.

Featuring 65 panels and Q&As, as well as 24 award honorees, DFF47 was a celebration of creativity and innovation for the film-loving community in one of the nation’s most vibrant cultural hubs. DFF47 continues to solidify its status as Denver’s premier cultural event.

The new partnership with the MCA Denver’s Holiday Theater injected fresh excitement and showcased this northside jewel for DFF audiences. Local highlights include:

World Premiere of LOVERS:

This new music-heavy narrative film received enthusiastic local and national support, from notable music acts like Nathaniel Rateliff and Sylvan Esso.

CHAMPIONS OF THE GOLDEN VALLEY:

Featured in the Colorado Spotlight, where we collaborated with the International Rescue Committee to subsidize tickets for refugees, and the film ultimately won the documentary audience award.

Film on the Rocks

United Colorado audiences through film experiences at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater.

Film on the Rocks (FOTR) has become more than just a film series—it’s a Colorado tradition. With record-breaking attendance, this year’s programming didn’t just entertain; it united community members under the stars at Red Rocks. FOTR brings us together— whether we’re singing along, quoting lines, or laughing with the best comedians and musicians.

The cult hit SHREK was totally sold out, prompting us to bring SHREK 2 along with SHREK Rave in 2025!

More than just movies—FOTR is an experience where film, music, and community collide under the Colorado sky.

In future years, we will continue to strengthen the link between FOTR and the Sie FilmCenter, creating a year-round connection for front-range film lovers.

Summer Scream

Denver Film’s biggest fundraising of the year, Summer Scream, is the only cultural event that takes over the historic Lakeside Amusement Park for an entire day. Our team produces every single detail, and ticket-holders enjoy a night filled with thrills, unlimited drinks, and rides in a neondrenched amusement park.

Last year’s theme was Winona-Forever, celebrating the Hollywood icon Winona Ryder, featuring Winona immersive activations with open bars sponsored by Deep Eddies Vodka, Ratio Beer Works, Liquid Death, Patron, Boulder Spirits, Topo Chico, and Wana Brands.

With your support, we grossed over $236K+ last year to ensure our programs and events keep Denver’s film community thriving.

Women+Film celebrates the remarkable achievements of women in cinema and amplifies their voices through outstanding storytelling. We connect Colorado audiences with groundbreaking films that explore the diverse experiences, challenges, and triumphs of women everywhere, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their contributions to film and society as a whole.

Hannah Waddingham receives the 2024 Barbara Bridges Inspiration Award at the Women+Film Luncheon.

Women+Film Festival CinemaQ Festival

CinemaQ provides a concentrated opportunity for Denver’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, allies, and film enthusiasts to enjoy queer film excellence. CinemaQ amplifies LGBTQ+ stories through outstanding films, discussions, and collaborations with community partners, elevating diverse perspectives, addressing relevant issues, and honoring LGBTQ+ icons.

CinemaQ’s Sweet 16 Birthday celebration marked a milestone in queer film programming.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson was presented with this year’s Ikon Award, elevating CinemaQ’s status in the festival industry.

Strengthened LGBTQ+ community engagement through the launch of BLQ and collaboration with Youth Seen.

Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival

This robust partnership with Colorado Dragon Boat Festival amplifies AANHPI voices to the forefront with a mix of feature and short-length films, culinary events, panel discussions, and community conversations fostering cultural pride and unity.

Ji-Young Yoo’s Golden Dragon Award recognized emerging talent.

Reviving film through live music, restoration, and cultural connection.

Denver Silent Film Festival

The Denver Silent Film Festival (DSFF) invites audiences to rediscover the power of cinema’s earliest masterpieces. With live musical performances accompanying newly restored classics and rare archival gems, DSFF transforms each screening into a singular, transportive experience. Since 2010, the festival has honored the artistry, innovation, and international legacy of the silent era—bridging film history and modern audiences through curation, scholarship, and celebration.

Stories of Impact

By presenting the best films of the year, we create community through stories that unite and inspire us. We proudly support storytellers and build inclusive spaces celebrating diverse perspectives.

Speakers from CinemaQ’s BLQ Disruptors Panel share their experiences as Black Queer creatives across artistic disciplines

From Hollywood to Denver Awards and

Recognition

Over the past year, Denver Film has strengthened our reputation as a film destination, not just locally but also nationally, attracting filmmakers and audiences who value the power of independent storytelling.

Our ability to host regional premieres underscores our role in elevating Denver as the cultural capital of the West, where creative stories thrive and audiences are enriched with a global perspective.

2024 Honorees

John Cassavetes Award

Patricia Clarkson, Actor, Lilly

Career Achievement Award

Joan Chen, Actor, Didi

Excellence in Acting Award

Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Actor, Hard Truths

Ben Chaplin, Actor, September 5

5280 Award

The creative team from Sony Pictures’ Saturday Night

Attendees: Jason Reitman, Gil Kenan, Eric Steelberg, Gabriel LaBelle, Cory Michael Smith

CinemaQ LaBahn Ikon Film Award

Jesse Tyler Ferguson, All That We Love & It’s Okay

Breakthrough Director Award

Nnamdi Asomugha, Director, The Knife

Excellence in Songwriting & Composing

Andrew Wyatt, Composer, The Last Showgirl

Rising Star Award

Ryan Destiny, Actor, The Fire Inside

Excellence in Directing Award

RaMell Ross, Director, Nickel Boys

Excellence in Writing Award

Virgil Williams & Malcom Washington, Writers, The Piano Lesson

Rare Pearl Award

Emilia Perez Director: Jacques Audiard

Stan Brakhage Vision Award

Cecelia Condit

Maria and Tommaso Maglione

Italian Filmmaker Award

Cristiana Dell’Anna, Actor, Cabrini

Barbara Bridges

Inspiration Award

Hannah Waddingham

Sie Artistic Director Keith Garcia introduced a wildly popular retrospective series he calls SIE/SAW, which ignited audiences to return to the Sie FilmCenter for films they love, attracting a younger, more diverse crowd. Leveraging the influence of platforms like Letterboxd, the rise of retrospective screenings became a cultural phenomenon, making Sie the go-to spot for audiences hungry for cult classics and rare gems.

The series didn’t just bring in viewers—it redefined what community at the Sie looks like, blending nostalgia with new perspectives.

Unplanned, community-driven events, like lobby wrestling watch parties, became a hallmark of inclusivity and spontaneity, creating a space where film culture feels accessible and exciting.

Community-Driven Bridging Cultures

International Stories That Resonate at Home

Over the past year, Denver Film reinforced ourselves as a cultural bridge, sharing stories that challenge perspectives and spark dialogue.

We hosted every nominated international film from the Oscars, showcasing the Sie FilmCenter’s commitment to global storytelling, offering a way to experience world cinema without leaving Denver.

At the Colorado Dragon Boat Film Festival, the Golden Dragon Award honored Ji-Young Yoo, recognizing an emerging voice in the AANHPI community. Celebrating her at such a formative point in her career marked a moment of cultural pride and inspiration, as she continues to find success in Hollywood.

Queer Excellence Amplifying Underrepresented Voices

Denver Film supports emerging talent and uplifts diverse stories, reflecting a commitment to cultural representation.

The launch of the new BLQ program in partnership with Youth Seen created a transformative space for Black queer voices at CinemaQ.

The Sweet 16 celebration marked a milestone in inclusive programming, demonstrating that Denver Film doesn’t just screen films, but also creates cultural movements that uplift stories traditionally left out of the narrative.

Cemented CinemaQ’s role as a pillar of LGBTQ+ storytelling in Denver, amplifying diverse perspectives through film and community dialogue.

Black Pride Colorado’s Queer Cookout wasn’t just an event; it was an affirmation of identity, demonstrating that cinema can catalyze pride and visibility.

I Was Born This Wayfiscally-sponsored project

Warrenfiscally-sponsored project

Filmmaker Support

Denver Film empowers independent filmmakers by providing the resources, partnerships, and funding they need to bring bold stories to life. Our support initiatives don’t just support films; they build a thriving creative community.

Fiscal Sponsorship

Helps filmmakers access critical funding without forming their own nonprofit.

$2,383,743 Contributed to Filmmakers in 2024

MOFFOM

Our Music On Film, Film On Music (MOFFOM) grant supports music-centric documentaries with up to $20,000 in annual funding. Since 2017, over 19 projects have been funded.

2024’s MOFFOM winner, LOS LOBOS NATIVE SONS, received all $20,000.

Los Lobos Native Sons is the ultimate authorized chronicle of East Los Angeles’ own, the global Latin rock n’ roll phenomenon and four-time Grammy winner Los Lobos. Drawing from their early life experiences on the streets and in backyards of the communities of East Los Angeles - the story is as much about their music as the City of Los Angeles itself, with all of its richness, diversity, and creative power.

Partnerships

History Colorado

History Colorado and Denver Film have joined forces to present Reel to Real, a fourweek series that brings Colorado’s history, culture, and communities to life through film. After each screening at the Sie FilmCenter, History Colorado curators and other experts will lead a discussion covering the film’s historical context, impact, and thematic connection to the state.

Denver Museum of Nature and Science

The Sci-Fi Film Series, produced in partnership with the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and features famous sci-fi films and discussions that break down the sciences behind these alternative possibilities, separating fact from fiction.

SeriesFest

Celebrates episodic storytelling, produced in partnership with local nonprofit SeriesFest. DF provides the venue, operations, and marketing support, creating a mutually beneficial partnership.

Denver Arts and Venues

We partner with Denver Arts & Venues to produce the iconic Film on the Rocks program at Red Rocks Amphitheater, host red-carpet events at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, and present our free annual outdoor movie series, Sunset Cinema, in Sculpture Park. This partnership is fundamental to empowering us to have access to the most elite venues in the Front Range.

Financial Report

Despite industry challenges, Denver Film remains a resilient and vibrant arts organization.

Denver Film’s total operating revenue reached $7.13 million, with a robust performance in ticket sales ($1.9 million), a 27 percent rise in membership dues ($250,000+), and thriving concession and bar income ($285,000+).

In late 2023, Denver Film was able to complete the purchase of the Sie FilmCenter Condominiums due to the incredible trust and support of the Anna and John J. Sie Foundation, which fully forgave the $1,000,000 promissory note originally issued in 2012 for Denver Film’s year-round home. Due to this loan forgiveness, there are no significant long-term obligations beyond routine lease commitments for Denver Film’s administrative offices. Deferred revenue and grant liabilities are fully matched by restricted net assets, ensuring that all earmarked funds are expended in accordance with donor and grantor requirements.

Over the past year, the organization’s large increase in cash, contributions receivable, unrestricted change in net assets, and contribution revenue are largely ascribed to its fiscal sponsorship program. Included in Denver Film’s increased contributed revenues -- from $5,651,947 in 2024 to $9,539,226 in 2025 -- are film fiscal sponsorship contributions totaling $8,753,258.

Denver Film board members Sylvia Lambe (L) and Elena Lippincott (R) at the 2024 Denver Film Festival

937,961.00

2,698,235.00

$ 703,090.00

2,791,735.00

Volunteers Membership&

A thriving base of film lovers investing in the future of independent cinema.

Behind every screening, festival, and unforgettable moment is a community of people who show up, give back, and make it all possible. Denver Film thrives because of our volunteers’ commitment, our members’ loyalty, and our supporters’ generosity.

“DFS is flat-out amazing!! Since I first volunteered in 2016, I’ve been proud to watch staff, management, and Board members put Denver on the entertainment industry map. Each year, a higher level of participants from more widely recognized companies attend various events, and filmmakers are impressed to be recognized here. Along the way, I’ve learned what happens “behind the scenes” and worked with a fun and dedicated crew of volunteers. It’s a privilege and a delight to participate!”

This year, Denver Film maintained the most consistent staff presence despite broader industry instability. Staff stepping up during significant events showcases our commitment and adaptability.

Asher Rosales

SIE FILMCENTER OPERATIONS MANAGER

Seth Degler VOLUNTEER & MEMBERSHIP MANAGER

Whitney Miller TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Carrie Mitchell HOUSE MANAGER

Janna Parks CONTENT SPECIALIST

Josie Van Ness BARTENDER

Lisa Burstein

BOX OFFICER

Alison Sahler BOX OFFICER

Anthony Jones CONCESSIONAIRE/ BARTENDER

Aiden Pigg BOX OFFICER

Staff Board

Thank you to our board, an incredible group of cultural/ business leaders and arts lovers. for supporting Denver Film with your dedication to and passion for film and community.

Ambriehl Turrentine PROGRAMMING MANAGER

Alaina Campbell PRODUCER

Amy Allison

CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

Katherine Brothers ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR

Billy Allyn PROJECTIONIST

Kevin Smith

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Keith Garcia

ARTISTIC DIRECTORSIE FILMCENTER

Rachelle Neal DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Esther Lopez EVENTS SPECIALIST

Claudia Gonzalez

SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER

Eric Prather DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Thomas George HOUSE MANAGER

Russel Brewer OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Amy Weiner Weiss DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

David Vargas BOX OFFICE MANAGER

Christina Vu-Pham SENIOR SPONSORSHIPS MANAGER

Dominick Shults PROJECTIONIST

Joey Haas GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Matthew Campbell ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Manuel Rodrigo Contreras CONCESSIONAIRE/ HOUSE MANAGER

Sean Virnich CONCESSIONAIRE

Sierra Sojourner McCoy CONCESSIONAIRE

Morgan Murphy PROJECTIONIST

Kurt Konrade BARTENDER

Josh Eliot BOX OFFICER

Marty Schechter PUBLIC RELATIONS

Amanda Blaurock CHAIR

Tom Downey VICE CHAIR

Elena Lippincott SECRETARY

Jessica Johnson TREASURER

Jeff Calhoon

Caroline Davey

Mike Ferrufino

Micah Gurard-Levin

Sandy Holmes

Chad Jimenez

Sylvia Lambe

Nicole Maholic

Deirdre McGuire

Sara Moore

Sheila O’Brien

Stephanie Rance

Maren Stewart

Youngdon Yun

Annual Giving

$50,000+

Anna and John J. Sie Foundation

Julie Mordecai Fund

Scientific and Cultural Facilities District

Sheila K. O’Brien Foundation

$20,000+

Bonfils-Stanton Foundation

John Caulkins

Dormer Harpring LLC

Liberty Global

Mordecai Heyman Family Fund

Next50

Wana Foundations

$10,000+

Denver Arts and Venues

Susan Capitelli

Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media

Colorado State Patrol

Italian Consulate

William R. LaBahn Fund

Luisa and Christopher Law

Meow Wolf

Mindy Levy Peckar and Steven

Peckar

Maxine and Mark Rossman

School of Rock

University of DenverCenter for Judaic Studies

University of Denver - Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures

Visit Denver

$5,000+

Allied Global Marketing

AMC Networks

Baird Palm Group

BOK Financial

Black Pride CO

Liane and Robert Clasen

Crocs

Polly Ehrenhaft

Gary Community Ventures

GHP Investment Advisors, Inc.

Marti and Jeff Grazi

Ireland Stapleton

Jessica and Brandon Johnson

Ketchum

Patricia and John Lickly

Records-Johnston Family Foundation

Jane E Rosenbaum

Suite Studios

Taloma Partners

Wana Brands

Mary Watson

$2,500+

A Small Print Shop

Vance Bray

Ellen Bruss and Mark Falcone

Gloria Campbell and John Verwys

Canadian Consulate

Denver Community Media

Denver Botanic Gardens

Denver Zoo

Eldorado Natural Spring Water

Dori and Al Harrell

Joan and Mark Henneberry

History Colorado

Molson Coors

Ratio Beerworks

Rocky Mountain Public Media

Topo Chico

Waterworks Car Wash

$1,000+

Richard and Susan Abernethy arc Thrift Stores

Victoria Barstow and James Favret

Colorado Soccer Foundation

Chris and Gina Carlson

Ann Corrigan and Kent Rice

Deep Eddys

Micah Gurard-Levin

Beverly and Hal Haddon

Impact100 Metro Denver

June Shine

PineMelon

Prime Meridian Media

S&P Global

Serendipity Catering

Simonson Family Charitable Trust

Maren Stewart

Prieto Yun Family Fund

Denver Film board member and major donor Sheila K. O’Brien (L) pictured with Colorado Governor Jared Polis (R) at the 2024

Looking Forward

We’re not going anywhere.

As Denver Film approaches its 50th Anniversary in 2027, we’re focused on building a future that honors our legacy while embracing innovation. The Sie FilmCenter is at the heart of this vision—a space where diverse stories come to life, community thrives, and where culture is celebrated.

Looking Ahead to 2027: 50 Years, a Cultural Milestone

As we approach our 50th Anniversary, we’re building a space that mirrors the vibrant, diverse, and resilient spirit of Denver.

We continue to foster partnerships with local arts organizations and filmmakers, as building community is just as crucial as building infrastructure.

Join Us!

Join us in building the next 50 years of Denver Film. Your support ensures that the Sie FilmCenter remains a place where stories, culture, and community converge—now and for generations to come.

SCFD is the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District, a tax collected and distributed to 300 cultural organizations in our seven-county Denver metro region including Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson counties. Just one penny on every $10 spent in the district creates vibrancy for us individually and collectively. It gives our kids a unique perspective and understanding of the world. It inspires all of us to discover the radical and the beautiful, and stretches our capacity to be transformed. Our metro area would not be the vibrant, nationally-ranked metropolis that it is today without the cultural funding and economic impact created by SCFD. Residents understand this and have approved continuing the tax at each of three renewal elections. With more than $84 million granted in 2023, our community is enriched by an amazing tapestry of arts, culture and science that is available and accessible to everyone. Beginning with taxpayers and with the expert shepherding of the SCFD, our collective mission is simple: We fund culture. Visit scfd.org.

Thank You SCFD And To Our Community

Thank you volunteers, donors, partners, and community members who make Denver Film’s work possible.

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