Winter Film Festival - Fourteen Annual - Feb 18-22, 2026

WELCOME TO THE 14TH ANNUAL WINTER FILM FESTIVAL

Winter Film Festival Is New York City. Like the city itself, we showcase the eclectic diversity and excitement of the independent arts world.

We are an all-volunteer, minority and women-owned registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 2011 in New York City by a group of filmmakers and enthusiasts. Our mission is to promote diversity, bridge the opportunity divide and provide a platform for under-represented artists and a variety of genres, viewpoints and approaches. We believe that only by seeing others’ stories can we understand each other and only via an open door can the underrepresented artist enter the room.

For our 2026 Program, Winter Film Festival is proud to screen an outstanding selection of 103 films of all genres and lengths - shorts and features, animation, documentaries, comedies, romance, thrillers, dramas, music videos and horror. Filmmakers come from 27 countries, including 20 student films and 34 works from first-time filmmakers.

Winter Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the amazing diversity of voices in indie film and our 2026 lineup is half made by women and half by people of color.

Tickets are $12.50/In Advance, $16.50/Door, $5/Door with Student ID.

Screening blocks run 1½ to 2½ hours and include a mix of shorts and feature-length films. Most Screening blocks include a 20 minute Q&A Session with the filmmakers.

Social Mixers, Education Sessions and Parties are free an open to the public.

Thank you to Winter Film Festival staff, volunteers, screeners, judges, writers, panelists, friends and helpers! This event couldn’t happen without our army of support! And thank you to our amazing sponsors, partners and venues whose support make this event possible.

Winter Film Festival programs are supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

WFF2026 Official Artwork was designed by Matt Curtis (www.curtisillustration.com).

Winter Film Festival 2026 animation designed by Professor Mike Enright’s 2D Animation Studio III class at Pratt Institute’s Department of Digital Arts and Animation.

Winter Film Festival is led by George Isaacs (CEO & Founder), Steffanie Finn (Executive Director), Lesley Sigall (Treasurer), Joseph Mauceri and Vaughn Murphy.

ABOUT THE FILMS

237 DEGREES CELSIUS

SHORT IRAN PERSIAN 6 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:30 PM-11:15 PM

A coffee order goes terribly wrong when a young man walks into his regular café only to find that no one understands him. 237 DEGREES CELSIUS emerged as a response to the pervasive absurdity of the city, capturing its surreal yet profoundly human essence. Set against a backdrop that blends the mundane with the surreal, the film explores the unsettling experience of a protagonist who wakes up to find that his closest friends have inexplicably adopted a language he cannot understand. This seemingly simple yet deeply disorienting premise sets the stage for a broader exploration of alienation, exclusion, and the silent fractures that run through society.

Ayda Bahrampour and Mahdi Habibi are a directing duo who began collaborating in 2021. Since then, they have worked on multiple short films, steadily refining their distinct artistic voices. Currently, they are pursuing careers on opposite sides of the world. Ayda is an undergraduate student at NYU Tisch, while Mahdi is an actor in theater and television and a director of short films in Iran.

Directed by Ayda Bahrampour, Mahdi Habibi

Produced by Ayda Bahrampour, Mahdi Habibi

A BEAR NAMED WOJTEK

ANIMATED UNITED KINGDOM ENGLISH, POLISH 28 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 12:00 PM-2:50 PM

A BEAR NAMED WOJTEK tells the fantastic journey of an orphaned Syrian brown bear who was adopted by Polish soldiers during World War II, becoming a beacon of hope and an emblem of their fate.

Award winning animator Iain Gardner was born in Glasgow and studied at both The Glasgow School of Art and The Royal College of Art. He served an apprenticeship at the highly regarded Richard Williams Animation Studio, famed for WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT. In his early career he also worked at TVCartoons, the studio behind YELLOW SUBMARINE and THE SNOWMAN. Currently he is developing BADGER BEATS, starring his gay badgers Mustard & Ketchup. His company, Animation Garden, is based in Edinburgh.

Directed by Iain Gardner

Produced by Iain Harvey, Wlodzimierz Matuszewski

A CRAB IN THE POOL UN TROU DANS LA POITRINE

ANIMATED CANADA FRENCH 11 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 12:05 PM-2:25 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

In a run-down neighborhood, Zoe and her little brother Theo are left to fend for themselves. A young adolescent, Zoe is a ball of anger haunted by an intimate terror. Theo, still a child, flees reality into a fantastical world. During a scorching summer day, the two children will have to burst the abscess of their relationship so as not to lose each other.

Alexandra Myotte and Jean-Sébastien Hamel are a duo of writer/directors based in Montreal. Their award-winning animated short films and web series have been featured in numerous festivals around the globe. Their latest film NO TITLE (2021) has won multiple awards, including Best Canadian Short Film at EIFF 2021, in addition to being nominated for Best Animated Short Film at the 2022 IRIS Awards.

Directed by Alexandra Myotte, Jean-Sébastien Hamel

Produced by Alexandra Myotte, Jean-Sébastien Hamel

A GOOD DAY WILL COME

SHORT CANADA, IRAN PERSIAN 25 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:30 PM-11:15 PM

Arash is a professional wrestler with dreams of representing his country and winning gold medals. The country is in turmoil and its people are suffering. Arash must decide between using his platform to stand up to tyranny, or put his head down and remain silent.

Amir Zargara is an award-winning Iranian-Canadian writer and director, whose unique perspective is shaped by the cultural mosaic of Iran and Canada. His journey, characterized by the resilience of an immigrant and the challenges of living with a stutter, deeply influences his approach to filmmaking. An alumnus of prestigious programs at Berlinale, TIFF, Busan, Zurich, and Reykjavik, he explores the moral complexities individuals face in his films.

Directed by Amir Zargara

Produced by Amir Zargara, Iman Tahsin

A SILENT CRY

MUSIC VIDEO UNITED STATES ENGLISH 3 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:55 PM-11:50 PM

Set in the Himalayan Mountains —one of Earth’s most vital yet fragile ecosystems— A SILENT CRY is a visual and musical meditation, offering a powerful message about the importance of protecting what is irreplaceable. Through evocative visuals and music, without narration or dialogue, its artistry lies in imagery and sound. Exploring themes of loss, resilience, and hope, it invites reflection on the Himalayas’ significance as a symbol of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a crucial part of planetary health. Their silence is not emptiness, but a call: to witness beauty, feel the weight of what may vanish, and remember resilience endures in every shadow and song—a visual and musical meditation on protecting what is irreplaceable.

Donna Weng Friedman is an award-winning pianist, producer, filmmaker and creative visionary. Her distinguished career spans dynamic performances, innovative projects, groundbreaking collaborations, and a steadfast dedication to advancing the arts through innovation, inclusion, education and mentorship. Donna was selected as one of Musical America’s Top 30 Professionals of 2024 for her outstanding contribution to the performing arts and was an inaugural winner of the 2025 Spark Awards.

Directed by Donna Weng Friedman

Produced by Donna Weng Friedman

ACCOMPLICES

SAUCESNICI

FEATURE SERBIA SERBIAN 107 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:55 PM-11:50 PM

After a car accident, Sofia and Branko’s idyllic life unravels. As they struggle to cope with the aftermath, their conscience haunts them, transforming their relationship and leading to a series of unexpected events.

Marko Novakovic was born in Belgrade and graduated in Direction from the Academy of Arts in Novi Sad (Serbia). He is known for his feature films NEKO ME IPAK CEKA (2009) , ZVERINJAK (2012) and BEZ STEPENIKA (2015) , which have won dozens of awards and prizes on Serbian and international film and TV festivals. He has also directed stage theater plays, TV serials, varieties, performing arts, live concerts, game shows, talk shows, commercials and music video-clips.

Directed by Marko Novakovic

Produced by Lazar Ristovski, Jovan Ristovski

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

FEB 21 5:20 PM-8:30 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 3:20 PM-5:40

When Constance moves into a suspiciously cheap apartment with roommate Hailey, she doesn’t suspect the truth behind its low price. But when The Creature reveals itself, Hailey has to break it to Constance that fighting is the only way they’ll get out alive. The women team up and make their last stand in a bloody gore-filled battle to the death.

Eunice Levis is a writer-director, educator, and creative entrepreneur whose work blends sci-fi, horror, and fantasy with a deep commitment to ethical storytelling. A first-generation Dominican American, she creates ambitious, high-concept narratives grounded in heart and purpose. Her award-winning films, including FELL ENDS, INVADE and RO & THE STARDUST (now streaming on Netflix) have screened at leading festivals across the U.S. and internationally.

Directed by Eunice Levis Produced by Okema Moore

AGORAPHOBIA

What’s out there trying to get inside isn’t always as scary as you think. An adorably spooky and wild animation for the song Agoraphobia by Lillian.

Ashley Wong is a designer and animator based in Seattle. This is her second short film. She is primarily self-taught in frame-by-frame animation.

Directed by Ashley Wong

Produced by Ashley Wong

ALL YOUR SISTERS

HORROR UNITED STATES ENGLISH 9 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 5:20 PM-8:30 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 3:20 PM-5:40 PM

A cerebral anthology/mystery about a disturbing and new social media ecosystem, where multiple lives intersect and collide under the influence of sentient AI. Imagine “Black Mirror” meets “The X-Files” meets “Atlanta.”

David Daniels’ career began as an office production assistant and post-production assistant for Fox Searchlight. He later went on to win top honor at the 53rd Nashville Film Festival in the feature horror category for his screenplay, OUR LADY OF JUSTICE and is currently in post and pre-production on a handful of short film projects.

Directed by David Daniels

Produced by Anna Daniels, Marcus Araiza

ANGEL DUST

POLVO DE ÁNGEL

HORROR SPAIN SPANISH 15 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 8:50 PM-11:59 PM

Everything is ready at the club for the ‘Inferno’ session by DJ Knox. Sora is not feeling well. She wants to go home, but Ruben is not willing to let an easy prey go. When the music starts to rumble, something awakens inside the young woman.

Migue Varela Vázquez (A Coruña, Spain, 1994) has directed several short films that have enjoyed extensive festival runs, such as THE CHILDREN OF ALLEN FUNT, CRIMSON, THE CELL and THE BABYFACE MASSACRE. All of these works share a penchant for tension, dark themes, a gripping pace, and surprising scripts, always operating within the realms of horror and thriller.

Directed by Miguel Varela

Produced by Miguel Varela

ATOM & VOID

HORROR PORTUGAL ENGLISH 9 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 8:50 PM-11:59 PM

In Valya’s burrow, a repeated rumbling disrupts her life and pushes her into the unknown.

Gonçalo Almeida is one of the leading names in Portuguese fantasy cinema, known for his work with non-actors and the success of THURSDAY NIGHT – a film starring two dogs – that was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Festival in 2018. The film received international press coverage and also won the Best Director for Horror Shorts award at the Fantastic Fest, the largest genre film festival in the United States, and the Best Portuguese Short Film award at MotelX.

Directed by Gonçalo Almeida

Produced by Gonçalo Almeida, Francisco De Assis Vieira

AU REVOIR MON MONDE

GOODBYE MY WORLD

ANIMATED FRANCE ENGLISH 5 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 8:40 PM-11:10 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

The world is about to end, and a man stuck in a fish costume attempts to cross the chaos of the city to reach a mysterious tower.

AU REVIOR MON MONDE was directed by a group of students from the French school MoPA.

Directed by Astrid Novais, Florian Maurice, Quentin Devred, Maxime Foltzer, Estelle Bonnardel & Baptiste Duchamps

Produced by Yoni Arena

BARTOGAY LAKE

SHORT FRANCE KAZAKH 9 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 8:40 PM-11:10 PM

An old man crosses the boundless Kazakh steppe, driving alone. Haunted by memories of a lost love, he stops by Bartogay Lake, flowers in hand. But as he tries to step out, his car door refuses to open, trapping him between past and present.

Katya Mokolo is a Paris-based Congolese filmmaker with 20 years of experience in advertising and a career that began in music videos. Among her most notable projects are collaborations on music videos, documentaries, and international films, demonstrating versatility and my ability to work across genres.

Directed by Katya Mokolo

Produced by Katya Mokolo, Dmitri Grebennikov

BEAUTIFUL, PAM

FEATURE UNITED STATES ENGLISH 64 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 12:05 PM-2:25 PM

Beautiful, Pam follows a Queer sex-worker, named Pam, in the midst of a mid-life crisis during the week of their son’s 18th birthday. While living out of a motel and turning tricks, Pam attempts to balance fatherhood and addiction.

J.R. “Sid” Stokes is a filmmaker and photographer from New York. From a very young age, J.R. has taken a strong interest in the art of storytelling, and hopes to continue having the privilege of curating films that push the boundaries of independent filmmaking.

Directed by J.R. Stokes

Produced by J.R. Stokes, Sara Stabile

BLOSSOM NEEDS A RIDE HOME

HORROR UNITED STATES ENGLISH 9 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 5:20 PM-8:30 PM / THURSDAY FEB

After defeating a bloodthirsty maniac, Blossom needs a ride home. What a hassle.

Tim Schwagel is a filmmaker from Eau Claire WI who taught himself to make movies alongside some of his best friends with whom he continues to work to this day. He fell in love with watching movies on the big screen surrounded by people, so he strives to inspire that feeling in others with every movie he makes.

Directed by Tim Schwagel

Produced by Zach Staads, Dana Strothenke

BLUE EVENING

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 40 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 8:40 PM-11:10 PM

A homeless addict in LA stumbles upon a lost masterpiece, setting him on a journey of redemption, survival and self-discovery, forcing him to choose between the high that’s ruined his life and the future he never thought he deserved.

Jansen is a Cuban/American writer, director, producer. He is a member of the Producers Guild of America as well as the Writers Guild of America, the Screen Actors Guild and the Academy. His short films, feature films, new media episodic shows and action design work have earned him over 30 film festival nominations including a prime time Emmy nomination and several wins for Best Director, Best Screenplay, and a Best Actor award at the Paris France International Film Festival.

Directed by Jett Jansen Fernandez

Produced by Cory Demeyers

BLUE FOR YOU

MUSIC VIDEO CANADA ENGLISH 6

A haunting meditation on obsession and fantasy, BLUE FOR YOU follows Consuelo, a legendary actress who shares a tender, poetic love with Carzio, a man who seems to live within her world. But as a shadowy presence begins to stalk her, the illusion fractures. What first felt like a romantic dream spirals into a psychological thriller, revealing that Consuelo was never his. A story where the line between love and delusion dissolves, we are left questioning the price of idolization and what happens when fantasy turns invasive.

Sebastián Ortiz Wilkins is a Mexican director and screenwriter from Guadalajara, now based between Mexico City and Guadalajara. Trained at Vancouver Film School and BCIT, he has worked as a Script Supervisor on numerous features while directing award winning shorts focused on cross-cultural stories. His work has screened internationally, and he is developing his debut feature with Moon7 and Oscar-nominated producer Lesley Paterson.

Directed by Sebatian Ortiz Wilkins

Produced by Javier Porragas

BOUND IN ROSEMARY

HORROR UNITED STATES ENGLISH 13

BOUND IN ROSEMARY is a horror short about a young woman who, after struggling with a new dance sequence, is interrupted by a stranger at her door. As the night goes on, not only does the stranger invade her house but her mind as well. Soon the young woman finds herself in an invisible, yet barbarous battle to maintain control over her own body and mind.

Reanna Madson is a Director - Actor - Dancer. Primarily an actor, she has dipped her toes into directing. BOUND IN ROSEMARY is her second short film with AVELINA was her first short. Reanna grew up in Eau Claire WI and moved to St Paul MN in 2021. She is a co-founder of the film production company New Neighbor Productions in Eau Claire, alongside Tim Schwagel, Nick Houchin and Zach Staads.

Directed by Reanna Madson

Produced by Tim Schwagel, Zach Staads

BREATHE ALIENTO

DOCUMENTARY SPAIN SPANISH 65 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 3:00 PM-5:40 PM

David, a Paralympic swimmer on the verge of quitting, finds in Alberto—his new coach—the push he needs to keep going. Together they achieve the dream of qualifying for Tokyo 2020, a milestone in David’s career. Now, with Paris 2024 on the horizon, they face a demanding year of training and competitions. Despite limited funding and constraints, their enthusiasm never fades. ALIENTO immerses us in the journey of two friends, where the real victory isn’t the medal, but the road they travel together toward the world’s greatest sporting event.

José del Corral and Eduardo Muñoz, Málaga-born DP/director and Seville-based director/editor, have worked as a tight duo for years, blending elite action-sports craft (snowboarding, skate) with cinematic storytelling. From Red Bull and Dubai Films to global campaigns with top athletes and icons, their debut ALIENTO (Breathe) showcases vibrant visuals, technical precision, and real human emotion.

Directed by Jose Del Corral, Eduardo Muñoz Produced by Fran López Reyes

BRIDGE-MY LITTLE FRIENDS

”I’ll take you to see Shiro. That’s a promise!” Jin, a cat, promised Mugi, who was saddened by the loss of her beloved dog Shiro. Jin, who loves Mugi, heard an anecdote about the “Rainbow Bridge” from his owner, Aki, and decided to take Mugi to see Shiro at the foot of the rainbow! Will Jin be able to save Mugi from his grief? Jin invites the pigeons and squirrels in the neighborhood to join him on his grand mission!

Kazuyuki Ishihara is a board member at StudioGOONEYS. His major credits include THE GREAT YOKAI WAR: GUARDIANS, K-TAI INVESTIGATOR 7, POCKET MONSTERS, LITTLE BATTLERS EXPERIENCE and PAC-MAN. He is known for his work bridging traditional anime and cutting-edge 3DCG.

Directed by Kazuyuki Ishihara Produced by Makoto Mizusawa

BURY IT!

A young woman is tasked to cleaning out her recently parted grandmothers basement, only to discover a locked chest. When she pulls out an incantation bowl buried in the dirt of the chest, the ancient Hebrew demon Bagdana emerges. Will she be able to send it back to whence it came before it’s razor sharp nails bury into her skin?

David Olonoff is a NYC-based filmmaker, who has worked on several features and television series as an assistant director. With experience in the Brooklyn comedy scene, David has collaborated with comedians on several video projects from music videos to shorts and commercials. Comedy and horror are his favorite genres, and he finds that a punchline and a scare can be one and the same.

Directed by David Olonoff

Produced by Mackenzie Jamieson

BUT I’M A SHOE

ANIMATED UNITED STATES ENGLISH 12 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 2:35 PM-4:55 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

This is the story of a woman who wanted to fly comfortably, so she used a new service called “Objectified Travel” just to be reminded that the grass isn’t always greener.

Chen Drachman’s first film, THE BOOK OF RUTH, starring Emmy Award nominee Tovah Feldshuh, has been in over 40 festivals globally, including the Oscar-qualifying Cinequest. The film won multiple awards and has more than 150K views online. Her newest film, BUT I’M A SHOE, starring Janet Varney, had its world premiere at the Oscar-qualifying St. Louis International Film Festival. Her next project, BLOOD AND SEX OVER AMBITION is a recipient of the Inwood Film Festival grant. It is set to film in early 2026.

Directed by Chen Drachman

Produced by Chen Drachman, Rachel Jobin

CAPTAIN BARTLEBY LOVES THE MOON

Captain Bartleby falls in love with an anthropomorphic moon and the world starts to fall apart.

Jan Winters was born in the back of a butcher shop. Gasoline is still his only friend.

Directed by Jan Winters

Produced by Jan Winters

CARBONO

Reflections on the carbon cycle and its journey across the world, connecting life and death, love and conflict, and the constant of transformation.

Yael Gonzalez is a Graphic Designer with 8 years of experience in Animation. She has participated in several roles in projects like THOMAS AND FRIENDS, CITY ISLAND, HARMON QUEST, MAX STEEL: TURBO WARRIORS and many other animated series. CARBONO is her debut as director.

Directed by Alberto Arvizu, Yael Gonzalez

Produced by Maria Jose Calderon, Yerani Kingston

WINTER

CARMEN AND THE WOODEN SPOON

CARMEN Y LA CUCHARA DE PALO

ANIMATED SPAIN SPANISH 24 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 5:50 PM-8:45 PM

Carmen’s a 7 year old girl raised by her Italian Nonna. Her greatest gift to Carmen is a magic spoon which, thanks to a centuries-old spell, when savoring new dishes she can travel back to her memories and relive the anecdotes and adventures of her grandmother’s life and above all, learn vital lessons that will help her in her own life.

Carlos Gómez-Mira Sagrado founded Thinkwild Studios in 2009, driven by a passion for creativity and animation. He has directed a wide range of audiovisual projects, including animation, motion graphics, advertising, music videos, and multimedia experiences, both nationally and internationally. His second short film, VUELA, was nominated for a Goya Award, selected at 180 festivals, and won around 40 awards. CARMEN AND THE WOODEN SPOON is his third short film.

Directed by Carlos Gómez-Mira Sagrado

Produced by Carlos Gómez-Mira Sagrado, Rossana Giacomelli

CATALOGUE OF NOSES

SHORT UNITED STATES

CATALOGUE OF NOSES tells the story of Jewish 16-year-old actor Emily, who faces off with her mother and her Jewish plastic surgeon on the day of her scheduled rhinoplasty. Emily must navigate this emotional decision and learn unsettling truths about the consequences of assimilation. Inspired by real events.

Josie Andrews graduated Salutatorian from USC, continuing there to earn her MFA in production. Her thesis film WANNABE debuted at LA Shorts, garnering wins and nominations across including from Nashville Film Festival and Arizona Film Festival. An adjunct professor at USC, she teaches producing/development and heads Dumm Blonde Productions. Her feature directorial debut, MIRIAM, was one of five projects selected for WIF/Sundance finance intensive, as well as the AWD Rising Director fellowship.

Directed by Josie Andrews

Produced by Lauren Schaffel, David M. Night Maire, Talisa Friedman, Emily Nash, John Noble Barrack, Nicole Friedberg, Sami Kolko, Yvonne Cone & A.J. Kelly

CLOSURE

SHORT GERMANY ENGLISH 10 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 12:05 PM-2:25 PM

Inspired by a neighbor’s mistaken assumption that she’s a boy due to her short hair, Emma embarks on a journey of self-discovery, determined to prove her femininity and overcome societal expectations, confronting her own perceptions of womanhood along the way.

Melika Rezapour is a passionate storyteller, constantly searching for answers to the endless questions she carries. She explores herself and the world with the curiosity of a child in an adult’s body, and she shares her discoveries with audiences through the lens of imaginary characters and stories.

Directed by Melika Rezapour

Produced by Melika Rezapour

CLUTTER

SHORT UNITED KINGDOM ENGLISH 15 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 8:40 PM-11:10 PM

Jean has a no nonsense attitude to both her cleaning job and her affluent clientele. But faced with the aftermath of a grieving drag queen’s night of hedonism, she is forced to confront the pain of her own loss, and the repercussions of a deep rooted prejudice. CLUTTER examines how loss affects us all, whether gay, straight , queer or trans, and how we find the strength to move forward.

James Card is an award-winning screenwriter and director known for A QUIET COURAGE, SOMNILOQUOY, SHORTCUTS TO HELL: VOLUME 1, SHRINKING VIOLET and JACK THE RIPPER IN AMERICA. He won Best Screenplay Short Film at Portsmouth International Film Festival for FOR MY NEXT TRICK, which was also nominated for Best British Film. His films have screened at festivals all over the world, most recently his first feature FINALLY NEARLY GETTING THERE won Best Feature at Brighton Rocks International Film Festival.

Directed by James Card

Produced by Suzanne Cheal, Gregory Ashton

DANCING DHAMAAL!

This animated Bollywood music video follows the emotional journey of Aadarshini, who is feeling out of place at a traditional Indian wedding. At the reception, she is mesmerized by dancer Parvati, who is the embodiment of classic Indian culture. Aadarshini may not be able to keep up with Parvati’s choreography, but she finds acceptance in her community through her own unique and unusual dance style.

Nimisha Mahatme is a Bay Area visual development artist working in film and television. She enjoys creating characters and stories behind them! She loves having characters that range from different diversities, cultures, and sexualities. In her free time, she loves makeup and fashion, rewatching her favorite shows again and again, learning about true crime stories and social issues, and hanging out with friends.

Directed by Nimisha Mahatme

Produced by Farah Hussain

DEBT I OWE

FRIDAY FEB 20 9:00 PM-11:50 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 1:10 PM-3:05 PM

Burdened by gambling debts, a Pakistani-American widower searches for redemption while struggling to be a good father to his two daughters.

Zane Rizvi-Riemer is a director, writer, and producer who received a BFA in Film and Television from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. While at NYU, he worked on over thirty student productions in nearly every on-set role and wrote, directed, and edited eight short films, including his thesis film currently on the festival circuit. He also attended the FAMU-NYU program in Prague, producing three 35mm short films in Czech, and has worked as a PA and Coordinator on two Disney-produced feature films.

Directed by Zane Rizvi-Riemer

Produced by Yara Melki

DON’T LEAVE ME

HORROR UNITED STATES ENGLISH 11 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 5:20 PM-8:30 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 3:20 PM-5:40 PM

After her husband takes his own life, an anthropologist specializing in the study of death rituals puts her research to use in a desperate attempt to bring him back.

Jennifer Saura is a Spanish-American filmmaker working in both documentary and narrative. Her career began as a development assistant at Roger Corman’s New Horizons Pictures, where she worked on camp horror films such as SHARKTOPUS and SPLATTER. She went on to make a series of documentary shorts while earning her master’s at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. Her current filmmaking practice explores psychological and supernatural horror, as seen through a distinctly female-focused lens.

Directed by Jennifer Saura

Produced by José De La Maza, Parker Foreman

DON’T WATCH THIS

A woman slowly realizes she’s a character in a movie. As she spirals in terror, everyone around her dismisses her as delusional -unaware that she’s the only one who knows we are watching.

Daniel Pineros’ career began in music video / commercials production and editing, where he directed and edited spots for international brands and renowned artists. Driven by his passion for storytelling, Daniel has transitioned from music videos and commercials to narrative work. He has directed three short films, which have been recognized and showcased at various Oscar Qualifying film festivals. Additionally, Daniel has written three scripts, aiming to direct his first feature film “Bisected”.

Directed by Danny Pineros

Produced by Lina Sanchez, Justin Potter

ENONGO

ENONGO is an award-winning, feature-length animation-documentary hybrid and the inspiring story of rapper/producer/Ph.D. candidate, Enongo Lumumba-Kasongo, a.k.a., Sammus. With her autobiographical and afrofuturism-inspired music, Enongo tackles various subjects including (but certainly not limited to) mental health, growing up, and relationships. Through a combination of actuality and animation, the film tells a universallyrelevant, intimate, empowering story of identity, artistic creation, and survival. Notably, it is the first feature-length film of any genre in history to have an all-Black women animation team.

Originally from Minneapolis MN, Kevin Schreck is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and film educator currently living in Brooklyn NY. At the age of 23, Kevin’s first major feature-length documentary, PERSISTENCE OF VISION (2012), made its world premiere at the Vancouver International Film Festival. His subsequent films include TANGENT REALMS: THE WORLDS OF C.M. KÖSEMEN (2018), THE DUCK OF NEW YORK (2023), ANTARCTIC VOYAGE (2024) and ENONGO (2025).

Directed by Kevin Schreck

Produced by Kevin Schreck

ERLKÖNIG

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 6 MINS FRIDAY FEB 20 5:45 PM-8:30 PM

Set to Schubert’s 1815 classical composition of Der Erlkönig, the short transports this well-known German story into the 21st century. Using an ambulance as a modern-day horse, a father rushes his mortally wounded son to the nearest hospital. In a back and forth between the father’s will and Erlkönig’s words, viewers see how the narrative of old speaks to racial and health disparities of today.

Morgan Middleton is a multi-disciplinary artist and visionary founder of Morganacity, a space where the arts and people of color intersect in exceptional storytelling. Morganacity’s portfolio includes plays, concept pilots, short films, and a graphic novel. She is a graduate of the University of Southern California and New England Conservatory.

Directed by Morgan Middleton, Charlie Driscoll

Produced by Morgan Middleton, Vikki Middleton

FATHOMING DINNER

ANIMATED NETHERLANDS ENGLISH 8 MINS SATURDAY

The luxurious setting of FATHOMING DINNER introduces a family of four - Narcissa, Gulliver, Ivan, and Kuma Trashworths - whose lavish dinner turns into a wild battlefield. They dive into an absurdist feud over plastic surgery and cheating rumours, rather than addressing the profound issues connected to their served meals. Unaware and self-absorbed, these characters elevate the food fight to a selfinflicted doom. Whereas, their dog Whatevra seizes the opportunity to have a feast of her own. Prepare yourself for a satire that serves as a poignant commentary on current society’s inclination to fight over insignificant matters, while neglecting the global pressing issues and feeding into its growing indifference.

Leja Kancerevyciute and Oleksandra Davydenko are Rotterdam-based directors whose works blend psychological depth with contrasting and experimental storytelling. They create intimate and powerful animations that explore identity, memory, and human resilience. They often draw inspiration from personal histories and emotionally driven world-building.

Directed by Leja Kancerevyciute, Oleksandra Davydenko Produced by Leja Kancerevyciute

FIRST CUT

In her first semester as a film student, Sae-a struggles with unfamiliar editing software. While learning how to edit from Gyesang, a classmate she constantly bickers with, the late nights in the editing room slowly shift their dynamic. Amid timelines, mistakes, and repeated revisions, Sae-a begins to feel an unexpected spark—one that is as confusing and tentative as first love itself.

Kyungrok Kim is a Korean filmmaker currently studying Film Directing at the Korea National University of Arts. After working in publishing, he turned to filmmaking and has since directed several short films, including SEPTEMBER MOCK EXAM (2023), THE TEMPERATURE OF TIME (2023), and JUST LET ME STAY TONIGHT (2023), which have screened and won awards at festivals in Korea and abroad.

Directed by Kyungrok Kim Produced by Yoonwoo Park

WINTER FILM FESTIVAL

FIRST WINTER

ANIMATED UNITED STATES ENGLISH 5 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 5:50 PM-8:45 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

Ángel is a newly arrived immigrant who is experiencing his first winter in Chicago. The film follows his realization of what it may mean to be away from home for a very long time.

Schantelle Alonzo is a 2D animator and story artist finding her roots in the diverse communities of Chicago IL. Because of her background as a half-deaf Filipina-American, she strives to tell stories of underrepresented communities and immigrants. Alonzo has been able to speak on representation on her own TEDxTalk and interview on NPR. Graduating with a BFA in Animation from School of Visual Arts NYC last spring with six short films, she wishes to tell stories that inspire a kinder world.

Directed by Schantelle Alonzo

Produced by Schantelle Alonzo

FJALLFERÐ

DOCUMENTARY ICELAND/US ENGLISH, ICELANDIC 17 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 3:00 PM-5:40 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 1:00 PM-2:35 PM

FJALLFERÐ follows a weeklong journey through Iceland’s highlands as farmers and families round up sheep before winter. Battling snow, rain, and rugged terrain, the film captures both the hardship and beauty of the trek. Evenings in shared cabins bring songs, meals, and stories, revealing the spirit that sustains the tradition across generations. As modern life reshapes rural Iceland, the film asks whether sheep farming can endure. Through intimate portraits and black-and-white imagery by Ragnar Axelson, FJALLFERÐ reflects on an uncertain future. Jesse Smolan is a filmmaker working across documentary and narrative film, drawn to stories shaped by place, tradition, and intimate cultural moments. His work explores identity, loss, and resilience through visually driven storytelling. He has directed award-winning shorts and documentaries that have screened internationally, and his recent work combines cinematic style with observational honesty, focusing on characters navigating change.

Directed by Jesse Smolan, Josh Fairmont

Produced by Jesse Smolan, Ollie Smith

FORBIDDEN POND

WEB SERIES UNITED STATES ENGLISH 13 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 5:45 PM-8:30 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 1:10 PM-3:05 PM

For single cellular organisms, life likely ends without a moment for reflection. It’s a didinium eat paramecium world. Retired epidemiologist Deb Kapell, however, immortalizes these tiny creatures with her microscopy art. FORBIDDEN POND accompanies Deb while she pursues her hobby and creates her own meaning of life through the relationships she builds with microscopic inhabitants of this world. The film is a celebration of both science and artistry, and appreciates the natural beauty that is both accessible and inaccessible.

Eric Jenkins-Sahlin is a Swedish-American film editor, cinematographer and director based in Brooklyn NY. His award-winning films and photography work has been featured in festivals across the world, in The New Yorker, the Guardian, Vice, AdWeek, and Roads & Kingdoms. Eric was a Fulbright Scholar to China and a UnionDocs Summer Documentary Lab fellow

Directed by Eric Jenkins-Sahlin

Produced by Eric Jenkins-Sahlin

GHOST

MUSIC VIDEO UNITED STATES ENGLISH 4 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 8:40 PM-11:10 PM

A young witch decides to try a summoning spell. Unfortunately what comes forth is much more sinister than she could’ve imagined.

Brina Palencia is primarily known for her voiceover work in anime and video games. Notable roles include Tony Tony Chopper in ONE PIECE, Ciel Phantomhive in BLACK BUTLER, Mad Moxxi in BORDERLANDS, and Lady Deadpool in DEADPOOL VR. Lately she has shifted focus to music. GHOST is the first music video (of hopefully many) from her debut EP.

Directed by Brina Palencia

Produced by Farah White

GIOIA

At 15, Gioia, a black teenager, lives a boring life at school. After class, she fully enjoys her passion: Afro dance. When she shares this hobby with Amandine, a popular student, their two worlds collide.

As a young man, Nixon Singa played football at a high level but had to stop due to an injury. In 2017, he directed À CHACUN SA PEINE, his first selfproduced short film, about three characters from different social classes bound by a tragic event. In 2021, he graduated from La Résidence de La Fémis with his short film ESPOIR, about depression among young athletes. GIOIA, produced by Caïmans Productions, explores complex themes such as cultural appropriation and self-emancipation in the world of Afro dance.

Directed by Nixon Singa

Produced by Caïmans Productions

GREENLAND- FEELING THE HEAT

WILDES GRÖNLAND - EISWELT IM WANDEL

DOCUMENTARY GERMANY ENGLISH,

Nowhere else on Earth is changing as rapidly as in the polar regions. For some animals it will be harder to keep pace with the changes then others. Greenland boasts the second-largest ice sheetfreshwater promotes blooming plankton, attracting whales to the Arctic Circle and polar bears specialize in hunting on pack ice, stealthily approach seals. The muskoxen find new food sources as the ice melts, revealing fresh greenery. For the Inuit, the changes bring opportunities and risks on hunting and their culture.

Lars Pfeiffer is a director and cinematographer whose documentaries focus on fragile ecosystems and the people protecting them. Rooted in research and a clear visual language, his films often use aerial cinematography to expand scale and context while staying close to human experience. He collaborates with scientists and local communities throughout production. His work has been commissioned by ARD, ZDF, and ARTE. He founded VISION AIRWAYS in 2016.

Directed by Lars Pfeiffer

Produced by Jörn Röver, Lars Pfeiffer

GUIDING LIGHT

DOCUMENTARY UNITED STATES ENGLISH 5 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 3:00 PM-5:40 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 1:00 PM-2:35 PM

Through the compelling interviews of the lead prosecutor, the defense attorney and the police chief, GUIDING LIGHT tells the story of a young teen (Polly Hannah Klaas) in a small town in America who was kidnapped from her bedroom during a slumber party while her family was in the house. India Mitchell, a teen growing up in the same town thirty years later brings a fresh perspective and highlights the importance of the legacy of this case to the continuing endeavor to keep children safe.

India Mitchell discovered her love of storytelling through filmmaking in middle school when her school in California changed to an online format for one year. At that time, India used an old cellphone to shoot footage about her dramatically changing world. India’s student film, GUIDING LIGHT, released in 2024, has received 54 top/best film awards, including the Grand Prize at the California state K-12 film festival in 2024, and it has screened at over 300 film festivals around the world.

Directed by India Anne Mitchell

Produced by India Anne Mitchell

HAINT

FEB

When gentrifiers mysteriously begin to die, a Gullah Geechee handywoman who recently lost her home, must decide whether to help them or leave the newcomers to their fate.

Jahmil Eady is a genre-defying writer and director from Charleston SC and NYC. Her award-winning films have been supported by NFMLA NewNarratives, Tribeca and Chanel Through Her Lens, American Film Institute’s Directing Workshop for Women Plus, and Princess Grace Foundation.

Jahmil’s most recent short, HAINT, a southern folk horror set in the Gullah Geechee community, was produced by Indeed Rising Voices Season 5. HAINT premiered at Tribeca 2025 and is being developed as a feature film.

Directed by Jahmil Eady

Produced by Tara Austin, Selena Leoni

HELP ME TOM

ANIMATED CHINA ENGLISH 14 MINS THURSDAY FEB 19 8:55 PM-11:50 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

Set in a small town in the future, a military robot is transformed into human service robot Tom. But the war is still coming, and the robot Tom must make a choice.

Jiahang Yang was born in Shenyang and graduated from the Fine Arts College of Shenyang University.

Directed by Jiahang Yang

Produced by Chang Baoling, Xiaoguang Chen

I HATE HELEN

SHORT UNITED KINGDOM ENGLISH 6 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 5:45 PM-8:30 PM

I HATE HELEN is a snapshot of teenage life, a short film about the tidal wave of gay lust some girls feel in school and letting those feelings just wash over you. But our protagonist, Emma, isn’t going without a fight. She hates Helen, and she hates the way she is feeling. This film is a love letter to being confused and angry. It’s about swimming and being a little pervert while trying to study for your GCSES. We made this with a queer crew around South East London and are delighted with this heartfelt mess of a result.

Katie Lambert is an English woman interested in behaving badly, making mistakes and trying to make them look beautiful. Sometimes those interests coincide with film making. She runs MrMr Films with Martha McGuirk.

Directed by Katie Lambert

Produced by Martha McGuirk, Rosie Brear

IDLE/WILD

Dating is hard. Annie and Berit have decided to have their first date in the woods. At first, Annie’s nerves and Berit’s cool aloofness threaten to ruin their day before night falls. But their growing attraction starts to bring them together. That is, until Berit notices that something’s up with Annie beyond first date jitters. Berit starts to lose time, and lose themself — not just to Annie’s charms but to something deeper, darker, and more sinister out there in the woods. At least, Berit thinks the danger is out there in the woods. When morning comes, a different Berit emerges …

Kaitlin Fontana is an Emmy-nominated writer/ director. Kaitlin participated in the 2024 Sundance Institute Feature Film Development Lab. Her scripts IS THIS YOU? and GIRLFRIEND ON MARS were both on the Black List. Her directorial debut, FRANCHESCA, was an official Sundance selection. She is the writer/producer of the true crimemeets-punk podcast PETER AND THE ACID KING, a Best Podcast of 2023. Kaitlin lives in San Francisco and was born in Fernie, BC, Canada.

Directed by Kaitlin Fontana Produced by Christina Campagnola

KILL THE HORSE

SA LE ZHE PI MA

ANIMATED CHINA ENGLISH 10 MINS SATURDAY FEB 21 8:45 PM-11:25 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

He heard a group of people whispering in the grass, plotting to kill the horse, and began frantically searching for the horse they were talking about. He entered the wilderness and saw the mysterious tribal beliefs and the radiance in the raging floods. With the dance of fire, everything burned to ashes. In the ashes, the neighing of the horse could be heard.

Xiaoruo Guo is an animation creator. His work explores the enduring power at the boundaries of life. His film KILL THE HORSE won the Golden Goblet Award Best Animated Short Film at the 2024 Shanghai International Film Festival and has been screened at over thirty international film festivals.

Directed by Xiaoruo Guo

Produced by Cong Wu

KINDAH: A HISTORY IN THE SHADOWS

DOCUMENTARY JAMAICA/US ENGLISH & JAMAICAN 10 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 3:00 PM-5:40 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 1:00 PM-2:35 PM

Kindah spotlights the under-documented history of the Maroon community in Jamaica. They are descendants of self-emancipated Africans who did not just escape slavery but outwitted the British Empire to secure their freedom. Without the privilege of documenting their own history, they were cast into the shadow of history and vilified to their own people. The film offers brief glimpses into some cultural practices that have been carefully preserved within the sovereign Maroon communities, shielded from outside influence over generations. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Maroons’ annual festival in Accompong and narrated by two chiefs, this film brings this hidden history to light from the perspective of the Maroons themselves.

Tibria J. Brown is a Boston-based filmmaker and journalist whose work examines pop culture, international politics, and human rights. She studied International Policy and Multimedia Journalism at Brandeis University and has produced nonfiction video content with organizations such as VOX Atlanta and ABC’s WCVB-TV. Her visual storytelling emphasizes immersive cinematography and avoids traditional narration, allowing subjects to drive the rhythm and direction of each film.

Directed by Tibria Brown

Produced by Tibria Brown

KNOWS

MUSIC VIDEO CHINA MANDARIN CHINESE 3 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 5:50 PM-8:45 PM

After winning “The Rap of China” in 2017, Pg One’s name became widely known, quickly catapulting him to become one of the most popular rappers and successful hip-hop artists in China, with a tremendous influence. This year, he is making a bold return by establishing a new label, Fast-Track Pathway, and reintroducing himself in a fresh light.

Bruce Puyu Wang is an accomplished Director and Cinematographer based in Los Angeles. He graduated from the American Film Institute Conservatory, with extensive experience across narrative films, commercials, and music videos. His work has been recognized internationally, most notably as a 2025 Student Academy Awards Finalist and a nominee for the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Heritage Award.

Directed by Bruce Puyu Wang

Produced by Tianrun Zhang, Qiemeng Wu

LAND OF THE DEAD DEER

SHORT IRAN FARSI 15 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:30 PM-11:15 PM

A boy who hasn’t yet gone to school has a sphere that he uses to see his own dreamy world. One day, he sees a deer through it and follows it into an abandoned school. But he doesn’t know that it’s a graveyard of children’s dreams.

Anahita Qarcheh has an M.A in Theatre Directing from Tehran University of Art. Soroush Javadzadeh has an M.A in Cinema from Soore University,

Directed by Anahita Gharcheh, Souroush Javadzadeh Produced by Anahita Gharcheh

LAST HOORAH AT G-BABY’S

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 15 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 9:00 PM-11:50 PM

LAST HOORAH AT G-BABY’S centers around an aimless and apathetic Naja grieving the death of her grandmother. After blowing through her cash inheritance, she owes five months of back rent on her grandmother’s rent controlled apartment in a gentrifying Brooklyn. Naja devises a plan to make enough money to pay back rent by the end of the week. When selling everything she can imagine doesn’t work, she results in throwing the party of the year as a last ditch effort.

DeeDee Casimir is a Haitian American filmmaker whose comedic storytelling celebrates the vibrant lives of Black women. Born in New York to immigrant parents, she grew up as the youngest of seven children in a lively family. With a keen eye for style, DeeDee infuses her work with a distinct aesthetic influenced by her fashion and editorial background. Her stories highlight Black women coming of age, which she believes can happen at any stage of life, that defy the constraints of respectability politics and societal expectations. DeeDee has worked with respected organizations such as 3 Arts, Showtime and has been recognized for her talent through programs such as the Academy Gold Rising initiative, Ghetto Film School and Group Effort Initiative. She was a finalist in the Sundance Collab Cultural Impact Residency Honoring the Legacy of Michael Latt.

Directed by DeeDee Casimir

Produced by Jordan Shanks, Christina Ingraldi

LIKE FRIEND, LIKE DEER

ANIMATED IRAN ENGLISH, PERSIAN 13 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:30 PM-11:15 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

LIKE FRIEND, LIKE DEER tells the story of a wildlife ranger in a critical situation who kills an illegal hunter during a confrontation. This short film explores the deep connection and hidden similarities between humans, animals, and the environment they share.

Malek Eghbali is an Iranian visual artist with a background in painting and photography. Recently, he has focused on visual storytelling and experimental animation. LIKE FRIEND, LIKE DEER is his first professional animation project.

Directed by Malek Eghbali

Produced by Malek Eghbali

LWC (LAZY WHITE COWS) VBP (VACAS BRANCAS PREGUIÇOSAS)

SHORT BRAZIL PORTUGUESE 19 MINS THURSDAY FEB 19 5:50 PM-8:45 PM

After calling a classmate a ‘lazy white cow,’ a young Black student embarks on a virtual saga to avoid being canceled.

Asaph Luccas is a Brazilian film director and screenwriter. She has directed several short films, including BONDE, which premiered at the ClermontFerrand International Short Film Festival and received awards such as Best Queer Short Film at the Leeds International Film Festival and Best Short Film at Mix Brasil.

Directed by Asaph Luccas

Produced by Leo Domingos Domingos, Carol Santos

MAGIC HOUR

FEATURE UNITED STATES ENGLISH 94 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 6:00 PM-8:00 PM

Harriet, a once-promising filmmaker, is stuck in the suburbs of New Jersey. Alienated from her cheating husband and spurned by her teenage daughter, she secretly enrolls in film school. She leads a double life and loves the grueling yet exhilarating world of student filmmaking. But, when she gets fired off her own film and found out by her daughter, Harriet must decide if her life’s ambition is pure folly or a dream worth saving.

Jacqueline Christy is an award-winning writer, director, and founder of Access Theater. She directed the short films REHEARSAL (Austin Film Festival) and OTHER PEOPLE (St Louis International Film Festival). Christy was awarded the Mary Pickford Award, the Woods Hole Emerging Director Award and was selected by SHOOT magazine for their New Directors Showcase. She received her MFA from the NYU Graduate Film Program. MAGIC HOUR, starring Miriam Shor, is her feature debut.

Directed by Jacqueline Christy

Produced by Jacqueline Christy, Laura Lee

MALKA

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 17 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 5:45 PM-8:30 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 1:10

Malka, a Holocaust survivor, starts to see visions of her life at the camps during a present-day family seder. As time falls in on itself, Malka must find the hope in the present that she did in the past in order to survive.

Stacey Maltin is an award-winning filmmaker and performer. She directed, wrote, and starred in the feature film TRIPLE THREAT which was distributed by AppleTV+. She directed the miniseries MASHED which won best series at several festivals and is streaming on OTV. Her 2nd feature film, C-SIDE, wrapped production in December 2025. In addition to her work as a director, she runs narrative production company Besties Make Movies as well as commercial production company WIWU Productions.

Directed by Stacey Maltin

Produced by Jaclyn Amor, Seth Bisen-Hersh

MAUVAIS COTON BAD COTTON

ANIMATED FRANCE ENGLISH, FRENCH 4 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 5:50 PM-8:35 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

In this world of dreams with well-oiled mechanics, Jeremy is a sheep who is nervous about going on stage to jump the barrier and put the child to sleep. Will he manage to overcome his fear and thus fulfill his destiny?

It all started around a ping pong table in the 3rd year of school. At first there were only 4 of them, then 5, then 6. Little by little they realized that they were united around three common passions: ping-pong, animation and sheep. And of course a little friendship. They decided to bring their creativity together to create a sensitive tale. Everyone giving their best so that MAUVAIS COTON lives up to their expectations.

Directed by Adrien Carriere, Ambre De Casanove, Diane Maris, Fabien Metais, Sarah Larrieu-Manan & Luc Reynal

Produced by Georgia Arnoux

MEMORY FOR BURIAL LA MÉMOIRE POUR SÉPULTURE

DOCUMENTARY FRANCE FRENCH 61 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 8:45 PM-11:25 PM

Survive against all odds. In 1940, Benjamin Orenstein, just a teenager, was sent to his first concentration camp in Poland. It was the start of a journey that has marked him for life. After years of silence, he testifies about one of the darkest pages in history.

MEMORY FOR BURIAL is the first film for director Charlotte Jarrix, an actress and theater director in Lyon France. It is the fulfillment of a promise made to Benjamin by Charlotte before his death: to create a documentary and retrace his steps by returning to the sites of his ordeal, including Auschwitz. Her goal is to convey the unspeakable, so that the horror will never be forgotten.

Directed by Charlotte Jarrix, Maud Guillaumin

Produced by Norbert Balit, Isabelle Arlaud

METHOD TO MY MADNESS

FEATURE IRAN PERSIAN 78 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:30 PM-11:15 PM

METHOD TO MY MADNESS is a psychological drama that follows a man struggling to reconcile his inner turmoil with the expectations imposed on him by society. As reality and perception begin to blur, he is forced to confront unresolved trauma and the fragile boundaries of control. The film explores the cost of repression, the search for identity, and the quiet violence of the mind.

Hoda Hamzehali is an Iranian filmmaker whose work focuses on psychological and human-centered storytelling. Her films explore inner conflict, identity, and emotional resilience through intimate character-driven narratives. METHOD TO MY MADNESS marks her feature-length debut and reflects her interest in blending realism with expressive visual language.

Directed by Hoda Hamzehali, Behrang Mortazavian

Produced by Idin Pezeshki, Sina Saeidian

MIME

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 7 MINS FRIDAY FEB 20 6:15 PM-8:50 PM

MIME is a fantasy drama that explores the mental and emotional toll of isolation on a teenage girl named Bri during the COVID-19 pandemic. Isolated from friends, overwhelmed by emotion, and unable to speak up, Bri begins to project her suppressed emotions onto her family, turning them into mimes representing her various emotions–Anger, Anxiety, and Sadness. As the mimes become more intrusive in her life, Bri must find the courage to name what she feels and reclaim her voice. Through expressive visuals, movement, and music, the film paints a powerful portrait of what it feels like to struggle with mental health in silence.

Gabri Blankson is a high school sophomore from Plano, TX. She is a former Time for Kids Junior Reporter, a Pinna podcast host, and founder of Breaking the Fourth Wall, a nonprofit helping teens share their stories through the arts. Gabri is passionate about mental health advocacy and expanding representation in the film industry.

Directed by Gabri Blankson

Produced by Jimmeka Anders, Sierra Davis

WINTER FILM FESTIVAL

MORE THAN SANTA BABY

SATURDAY FEB 21 3:00 PM-5:40 PM

An inspiring story of perseverance, resilience and hope, MORE THAN SANTA BABY honors the prolific artistic legacy of “Santa Baby” composer Philip Springer. His journey over 80 years in worldwide music history reveals a creative lifetime well beyond his renowned Christmas song, proving it is never too late to achieve one’s dreams and live with purpose.

Tamar Springer is the longtime manager and archivist of the music catalogue of “Santa Baby” composer Philip Springer, her father. Tamar is an accomplished producer, including the awardwinning CD/Book “The Last Legacy of E.Y. Harburg,” several CDs featuring her father’s music, musical productions and a single of “Santa Baby” recorded with Eartha Kitt and Philip on the piano. Tamar is a voting member of the Recording Academy. MORE THAN SANTA BABY is Tamar’s first film, a true passion project.

Directed by Tamar Springer

Produced by Tamar Springer

MORNING VIGIL

A pious sister and her inflexible magistrate brother mourn the passing of their beloved mother. To honour her memory, the siblings burn the midnight oil over their mother’s old correspondences with family members whom she so often spoke of, until they come across a letter from someone she had never mentioned.

Night Maire’s gritty, character-driven films have received endorsements and worldwide acclaim. He premiered clips on MTV and Glamour, produced content for LVMH and Red Bull, and garnered thousands of laurels for the short films, including the Zeno Mountain Award at Miami Film Festival and New Industry Selection Award at Oaxaca FilmFest. Night earned his BA in Film & TV from NYU: Tisch, pursued a Masters in Directing at SVA, and another in Screenwriting from Royal Holloway’s University of London.

Directed by Night Maire

Produced by Nancy Nagrant, David M. Night Maire

PARACLETUS // HALLUCINATE

MUSIC VIDEO GERMANY ENGLISH 7 MINS SATURDAY FEB 21 5:20 PM-8:30 PM

Where the boundaries between light and darkness fade, a creature of immeasurable power exists - a soul collector who reigns over the dark abyss, drawing in those who are lost. The film takes us into a world where what seems to protect is also destructive, and the journey out of the darkness is as uncertain as the true nature of the creature itself. Only those who face their deepest, abyssal self will truly escape.

Natalie Plaskura is an independent filmmaker, video artist, and visual designer specializing in conceptual and visually complex narrative structures. She received her diploma in Photo Design from FH Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts in 2012 with her film INTRUSION and later pursued master’s studies in Film at the same institution. Her short films INTRUSION (2012), FAINT (2014), MINOTAUR/ BLACK VULPINE (2019) and SKRZYKOT (2020) went to several film festivals around the globe.

Directed by Natalie Plaskura Produced by Natalie Plaskura

POE: A TALE OF MADNESS

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 5 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 6:15 PM-8:50 PM

Tormented writer Edgar Allan Poe grapples with haunted specters of his own design as he strives to create a masterpiece a masterpiece that quickly tumbles into a tale of madness. POE: A TALE OF MADNESS was filmed on a soundstage with a 50’ curved LED screen, utilizing groundbreaking technology known as “The Volume” - combining real props with virtual production backgrounds built with Unreal Engine. Leveraging this unique technology, POE stands at the precipice of film industry tech seen in big budget productions such as Star Wars’ THE MANDALORIAN and Matt Reeves’ THE BATMAN, creating visually stunning and immersive yet realistic environments - perfect for the dark and sinister cinematic dream world of Edgar Allan Poe.

Paul Michael Bloodgood is a four time Lone Star EMMY® & CLIO Entertainment Award-winning director, SAG-AFTRA stunt performer and movement specialist. Bloodgood’s 20-year career as a professional ballet dancer presented the opportunity to perform principal roles in theaters worldwide. A four time Austin Critics Table Awards recipient, Bloodgood has received over 30 film festival accolades and is currently earning his master’s degree in Media Producing from New York University Tisch School of the Arts.

Directed by Paul Michael Bloodgood

Produced by Stephen Mills, Paul Michael Bloodgood

REASON AND IMPULSE - DISAPPEAR

MUSIC VIDEO PORTUGAL ENGLISH 3 MINS THURSDAY FEB 19 6:00

The song is about what it feels like to face a problem that goes beyond one’s ability to handle; feelings like anxiety and avoidance, powerlessness and the illusion of control that comes from self-destructive ideation. The video builds on this by posing the question: where do these feelings lead? Is this really where we want to go? The video follows an individual who, after a fight with a loved one, takes out their frustrations on the road, and ends up flying through the windshield of their car. As they lay dying in a field, a dissociative fantasy ensues: little creatures come to rebuild the car and turn back time. In the end, the fantasy fails to change reality, underscoring the permanence of certain decisions.

Ala Nunu is a Polish animation director based in Portugal. She has experience in directing and art direction for commercial and artistic projects including TV series, social campaigns, music videos and short films. Her portfolio includes working for Adult Swim Toonami, Universal Studios and Frank Sinatra Estate, The Atlantic or the On Being Project. She is a co-founder of COLA international production cooperative. Recently work includes the Oscar nominated ICE MERCHANTS and the multi awarded SLOW LIGHT.

Directed by Ala Nunu

Produced by Bruno Caetano

RECONCILIATION

DOCUMENTARY UNITED STATES ENGLISH 16 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 5:50 PM-8:35 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 1:00 PM-2:35 PM

A young man reconnects with his father after many years of distance. In the process of reconciliation, he decides to make a film about it.

Ian Phillips was born and raised in New York City. His first Feature Documentary COACH JAKE premiered at the Urbanworld Film Festival in September of 2017 and was distributed by First Fun Features. His second Feature Documentary THERE GOES THE NEIGHBORHOOD won multiple awards at Film Festivals and is currently distributed by IndiePix. His latest Feature Narrative film, A NEW YORK CHRISTMAS WEDDING, which he Produced and Edited, was distributed by Netflix.

Directed by Ian Phillips

Produced by Ian Phillips

SAMMI, WHO CAN DETACH HIS BODY PARTS

SHORT

THURSDAY FEB 19 8:55 PM-11:50 PM

He was born with the extraordinary ability to detach and reattach his body parts at will. Throughout his life, he generously shared these unique gifts with the people he loved. But when he passed away, all that remained was a solitary torso topped by a faceless head. Now, his mother must embark on a haunting quest to reclaim the pieces of her son, seeking to mend not just his body, but the very bond they once shared.

Rein Maychaelson is an Indonesian writer and director. He made his early voice through UDIN TELEKOMSEL, a film about a boy who can text God with his phone. The film have been screened at Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival. In 2018, his short film, ERRORIST OF SEASONS, won the Viddsee Juree Awards.

Directed by Rein Maychaelson

Produced by Muhammad Ihsan Ibrahim

SEEMS LIKE LOVE POKHODU

LYUBOV

FRIDAY FEB 20 6:15 PM-8:50 PM

Liza, a young and optimistic woman, arrives in Saint Petersburg for the first time, enchanted by the city’s poetic bridges, legendary embankments, and vibrant bohemian parties. Her adventure begins when she meets a free-spirited artist and his musician friend. Together, they embark on a whimsical journey through the city, involving the sale of an antique bed, spontaneous conversations, and the magic of white nights. As the day unfolds, unexpected connections form, leading Liza to discover that love might be found in the most unforeseen circumstances.

Yana Klimova-Yusupova is a screenwriter and film director. Her debut feature film, ONLY HUMAN, is a powerful and internationally acclaimed drama about an orphan who, as an adult, finds his mother. Yana is one of the few Russian filmmakers who has consistently represented her work on the international stage for many years. She is a graduate of the VGIK (Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography), where she studied in the master’s workshop of the renowned director V. B. Akhadov.

Directed by Yana Klimova-Yusupova

Produced by Igor Mishin

WEB

SEXLESS IN THE CITY

Nia is a 30-something planner whose life turns upside down when her long-term boyfriend dumps her and ruins her five-year plan for marriage, kids, and a house on Long Island. Staring at a now-empty Google Cal, she invites herself on a night out with the girlfriends she’s ghosted, but is wildly unprepared for their cold shoulders and passive-aggressive attacks as she tries to defend her absence. Nia finds herself at a crossroads: win back her BFFs or chase the boy who left her?

Talia Fayaz co-wrote, directed, and produced a comedy pilot SEXLESS IN THE CITY, receiving the 2024 NYC Women’s Fund grant from the NY Foundation for the Arts to finish the project. She has also written an original song for the pilot with her indie pop band, which received a whopping 73 plays on Spotify. She knows it’s going to blow up any day now.

Directed by Talia Fayaz

Produced by Gaby Roy

SHE WILL ROCK YOU

Yongsik is abruptly and absurdly dumped by his girlfriend, Deokja. No matter how much he thinks about it, he refuses to accept the breakup. Determined to try anything to win her back, he begins a desperate pursuit for answers. But when they meet again, Deokja has—quite literally—turned into a stone. Faced with this surreal transformation, Yongsik struggles to understand the cruelty and tenderness of love, and whether something broken can still be held onto.

Born in 1999 in South Korea, Yebin Hyeon graduated in Film and Arts from Soongsil University and now works at a production company, exploring various genres of moving images. Though she often feels detached from life, she believes the stories that have yet to become films keep her creating. SHE WILL ROCK YOU is her fourth directorial work.

Directed by Yebin Hyeon

Produced by Ayoung Moon

SHOW ME HOW TO DIE ENSEÑAME COMO MORIR

HORROR UNITED STATES ENGLISH, SPANISH 14 MINS SATURDAY FEB 21 5:20 PM-8:30 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 3:20 PM-5:40 PM

After her grandmother passes away, a grieving Mexican-American woman becomes fascinated with learning what it feels like to die, believing it will allow her to feel close to her grandma in death in a way she never felt in life.

Gerardo “Gerry” Maravilla is a Mexican-American writer/director based in Los Angeles. Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, he escaped his suburban Catholic upbringing through punk rock and horror movies. A bicultural lovechild of Tim Burton and Guillermo del Toro, he crafts supernatural horror stories with heart.

Directed by Gerardo Maravilla

Produced by Evelyn Angelica Martinez

WINTER FILM FESTIVAL

SNOW DOG

ANIMATED UNITED STATES ENGLISH 3 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 6:00 PM-8:00 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

Holly, a 10-year-old girl, wakes up one Christmas morning and, feeling disappointed after receiving a pet rock as a present, decides to build a dog out of snow. To her surprise, the snow dog comes to life, and Holly names him Snowbert. She spends the morning playing joyfully with her magical companion. However, as Snowbert grows larger, Holly realizes the responsibility of caring for a dog, especially as he begins causing chaos in the neighborhood. Eventually, she learns her lesson and manages to destroy Snowbert before anyone notices all the damage that he caused to the neighborhood.

Christina Park and Marisol Salazar Montoya collaborated to create a heartwarming animated short centered on their shared love for dogs. Christina specializes in storyboarding, enjoying the process of designing shots and shaping a cohesive narrative. Marisol focuses on animation, bringing characters to life through movement and performance. Though each has a specialty, they worked together across every stage of production to bring this charming Christmas story to life.

Directed by Christina Park, Marisol Salazar Montoya

Produced by Christina Park, Marisol Salazar Montoya

STAIRCASE STOMP BY THE CLAMOR

5:45 PM-8:30 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45 PM-5:00 PM

Stop-motion music video for the song STAIRCASE STOMP by punk/new wave band The Clamor. The music video tells the story of a man grappling with his inner turmoil, represented by a haunting female figure in a storm-battered cabin. Through surreal stop-motion animation, the video explores themes of identity, psychological conflict, and self-reconciliation, blurring the lines between external chaos and internal struggles.

Aaron Louis is the Director of Audio Visual at MoMA, Vice Chairman of Ideas Beyond Borders, and a producer, writer, and musician. He has produced films, theater, and music videos, including STAIRCASE STOMP. His past work blends immersive storytelling with technical innovation in film, animation, and live performance.

Directed by Aaron Louis

Produced by Aaron Louis

STALKER

HORROR FRANCE ENGLISH 19 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 5:20 PM-8:30 PM

After a vicious assault at a party, a young woman flees the scene. And as she walks back home on a gloomy and threatening Paris night, she can’t shake the feeling that she’s being followed. As she gets closer to her residence, the presence becomes more and more bold and aggressive. And it is only by confronting her deepest inner fears that she will be able to survive the ominous threat.

David Cholewa is a French director based in Paris. He ran an international distribution and sales company for movies until 2016. In 2012, he produced and directed feature film DEAD SHADOWS that was selected in more than 20 Festivals worldwide and has been released in 25 countries. SHOUT!FACTORY released the film in North America. STALKER is his first short film.

Directed by David Cholewa

Produced by David Cholewa, Laurie Cholewa

STALLING

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 13 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 2:35 PM-4:55 PM

An unlikely queer love story unfolds when two women decide to trauma-bond over a shared cheating ex. They’ve shared the same man, the same heartbreak, and the same bathroom stall...... and now they’re about to share confusing amounts of chemistry. STALLING is a caustic, bisexual spin on a cozy slowburn rom-com.

Jasia Ka is an Emmy Award–winning director and series creator known for her bold “feminist Rocky” point of view. Her work spotlights queer and female perspectives, blending realism with fantasy to create irreverent worlds where outsiders take centerstage. Her portfolio includes the Emmy Award–winning documentary GHOST and the BRIC-TV dramedy GIRLS AREN’T FUNNY. She is represented by Eric Williams at Zero Gravity Management.

Directed by Jasia Ka

Produced by Brooks Malberg

STRANDED

A frustrated investment banker finds purpose in the hair that he is losing.

Luca Floris is a Latino storyteller from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he grew up surfing and playing soccer. He earned a degree in Physics with a minor in Cinema and Media Studies from the University of Chicago, graduating in 2020. In 2023, Luca left finance to follow his passion for Filmmaking. As a first-time Director, he looks to draw from his personal experiences to craft compelling, deeply resonant stories.

Directed by Luca Floris Produced by Luca Floris

SUIT AND TUPPERWARE

In a prestigious law firm, where power and hierarchy dominate, Alex, a young lawyer full of ambition, struggles to prove his worth. However, his boss, Belén, does not seem to recognize his talent. In an environment marked by hypocrisy and routine, Alex is forced to face unexpected obstacles. When a series of challenges test his determination, Alex surprises everyone, including himself, by overcoming all the limitations imposed by his environment.

José Ocaña is a young director who loves to create audiovisual pieces, especially bringing new concepts, trying to move away from the stereotype and the common. His latest short films written and directed by him are: TIERRA (2021) and BAJO EL CIELO TE MIRO (2023). On the more industrial side he has made music videos for Aitana, Ana Mena, Nodal, Myke Towers, Quevedo, etc.

Directed by Jose Ocaña Produced by Julian Galindo

SWEET DREAMS

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 34 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19 5:50 PM-8:45 PM

Set in a near future where most people can no longer dream, SWEET DREAMS follows Esperanza, a young woman preparing to become a mother for the first time. Weeks before her baby is due, her partner Kiké disappears without a trace. As her search for him intensifies and her savings run out, Esperanza turns to surrogate dreaming—a controversial new technology that allows expectant mothers to sell the dreams of their unborn children through a dreamcatcher clinic. What begins as a desperate solution soon grows unsettling, as Esperanza suspects the clinic may be connected to Kiké’s disappearance, forcing her to confront the hidden cost of commodifying dreams and the future itself.

Writer/director Gary Alvarez was reborn on the road while hitchhiking in the luggage compartment of a bus across Mexico from coast to coast. The stories he penned on that trip evolved into thirtysomething BFFs RV-ing on a drug-fueled trip to the Northern Lights and Chicano superheroes fighting government, AI Super Agents and 90s teenage rocknrollers conquering the world! But what gets him out of bed every morning is the joy of being a husband to his wife Thelmy and a dad to his son, Sol Guadalupe.

Directed by Gary Alvarez

Produced by Erika Martinez, Gary Alvarez

TAINTED LOVE

HORROR KOREA KOREAN 14 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 8:50 PM-11:59 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 3:20

Vampire Yu-jun and human Jin-ah are in a relationship. Yu-jun lives by sucking up Jin-ah’s blood. However, his lover Jin-ah is unhappy with the relationship, in which she has to be sick only.

Youngho Gye was born in 1989 and graduated from Yonsei University’s Graduate School of Communication, majoring in Film.

Directed by Youngho Gye Produced by Yongwon Lee, Sungsik Choi

THE BINDING

HORROR UNITED STATES ENGLISH 10

A young man wakes up in a dark basement, tied to a chair with a sack over his head. As his captors begin to explain their occult motives, what at first seems like just a kidnapping is revealed to be something much darker and far more terrifying. In the wake of a failed exorcism, a grieving father will do “whatever it takes” to destroy the entity that took his daughter, even if that means committing an unforgivable sin of his own.

Ryan Kennedy fell in love with movies at the age of 7 when his dad took him to a rep screening of RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK. After a few years thinking he wanted to be an archaeologist, he turned his eyes to filmmaking. Ryan studied film at Hofstra University, and has worked in the NYC film industry for over a decade, most frequently as a Script Coordinator. THE BINDING is his first film as a writer/director. He lives in Astoria, Queens with his wife, son, and their tuxedo cat named Hudson.

THE CHAPLAIN & THE DOCTOR

DOCUMENTARY UNITED STATES ENGLISH 86 MINS SATURDAY FEB 21 5:50 PM-8:35 PM

Betty Clark is an 80-year-old, African American chaplain on staff at The Wilma Chan Highland Hospital Campus, the level-one trauma center in Oakland, California. Jessica Zitter is a white Jewish physician who has been Betty’s colleague on the Palliative Care service for over a decade. The two women are an unlikely team: chaplains and doctors do not usually pair up within the hierarchical and siloed halls of the hospital. But with time, the two women’s shared values and history overcome the forces that keep them apart, and they go on to do their best work together. THE CHAPLAIN & THE DOCTOR models a new kind of care, one that honors both spirit and body, the diverse backgrounds of patients, and the most human needs we all share.

Jessica Zitter is a documentary filmmaker, writer, physician, and founder of Reel Medicine Media, a non-profit devoted to using story to transform and humanize medical culture. Dr. Zitter is the primary featured subject and a member of the team that created the Oscar- and Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary EXTREMIS 2016). Dr. Zitter practices the unusual combination of critical care and palliative care in Oakland, California.

Directed by Jessica Zitter

Produced by Jen Gilomen

THE CYCLE

THE CYCLE tracks a day in the life of a young Punjabi housewife in Chandigarh, India who is obsessed with losing weight as she joins a cycling club and grapples with the cost of individuality and freedom.

Arpita Mukherjee is an NYC-based, award-winning writer and director and the co-founder and Artistic Director of Hypokrit. Recent film credits include: director for the short film RUNNING (Best Short Film - Chicago South Asian Film Festival), co-writer of feature film GULMOHAR on Hulu and HOTSTAR (Filmfare Best Screenplay Award, National Award) and projects for SWIIP, AMC, Sony, and Netflix.

Directed by Arpita Mukherjee

Produced by Rahul V. Chittella

THE DRIFTLESS

Deep river valleys, tall limestone bluffs sawing through the sky... thousands of years ago, this unique portion of the Midwest escaped the crushing effects of the giant Ice Age glaciers. But with its scenic beauty, this preserved primal landscape also conceals unimaginable terrors. THE DRIFTLESS is a horror film that weaves through four terrifying Midwest tales of the macabre.

Guided by a mysterious antique store owner, these stories delve into a Mississippi River cult of masked assassins, a grieving musician’s struggle with a cursed bottle of liquor, a motel pool cleaner’s uncanny ability to retrieve time-altering artifacts, and a woman’s blood-thirsty revenge from beyond the grave.

Tim Connery is a writer/director/producer of indie films and commercials based in the Midwest.

Directed by Tim Connery

Produced by Tim Connery

Directed by Ryan Kennedy

Produced by Tina Yeh, Ryan Kennedy, Ashley Kennedy

THE EMBRACE

EL ABRAZO

DOCUMENTARY ARGENTINA SPANISH 17 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 8:45 PM-11:25 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 1:00 PM-2:35 PM

When the world is crumbling, where to find hope?

THE EMBRACE follows 50-year-old Argentine tango teacher Carolina Pirotta as her precariously-built world is upended by the election of a right wing populist. Offering an intimate lens on a life lived amid economic turmoil, this film dives into a world of tango that challenges tradition - examining issues of power, resistance and resilience in the process. Through tracing Carolina’s steps, it also takes the audience on a poetic journey from the neondrenched dancehalls and protest-packed streets of Buenos Aires to the sunset-bathed mountains of Patagonia.

John Owens is a British freelance film-maker and multimedia journalist who works with video, photography and words. John has worked on documentaries that have appeared in the BBC and Netflix, as well as filming and producing numerous short films for both international media and NGOs covering issues of human rights and migration across the globe.

THE EMBRACE is his first short documentary. After living in Argentina John moved to Brooklyn, where he now lives.

Directed by John Owens

Produced by John Owens

THE FINGER WIFE

THE FINGER WIFE is a domestic horror story with a delicious sense of humor - part 2D hand-drawn animation, part stop-motion, and all bizarro feminist propaganda! It’s 1975. A smart, ambitious woman (The Wife) is stuck in the kitchen. When feisty, martini-drinking Betty steps out of a 1950s cookbook, The Wife is confronted with what she really wants out of life (it’s not to make another meatloaf). Faced with Betty’s tough love and in a desperate effort to find one goddamn minute for herself, The Wife takes matters into her own hands, with gleefully horrific results.

Taryn Stickrath-Hutt is a writer, director, queer feminist and exhausted mother based in Chicago. Dan Lund is a longtime Disney animator known for his effects work on high-profile animated films like FROZEN and MOANA, as well as his own offbeat, independent shorts. Taryn and Dan met while working on projects with Walt Disney Imagineering. The duo has been collaborating for nearly a decade.

Directed by Taryn Stickrath-Hutt, Dan Lund

Produced by Taryn Stickrath-Hutt, Dan Lund

THE FISHING BOATS OF KAYAR

LOS CAYUCOS DE KAYAR

DOCUMENTARY SPAIN SPANISH 30 MINS SATURDAY FEB 21 12:00 PM-2:50 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 1:00 PM-2:35 PM

After 15 years in Spain, Thimbo returns to his Senegalese fishing village, where he is overwhelmed by sensations of nostalgia and uprooting, yearning and resentment. He also grapples with the influence he exerts on the local youth, who see him as a role model and seek to emulate him through a perilous journey to Europe by boat.

Álvaro Hernández Blanco is a director and screenwriter from Madrid with international experience in digital content and documentary filmmaking. He began his documentary career in Los Angeles as an editor. In 2022, he directed STILL HERE, about the last speakers of the Ku’ahl language in Mexico. In 2023, he published his first book “Migrantes”, about the US–Mexico border.

Directed by Álvaro Hernández Blanco

Produced by Fernando J. Monge, Álvar Carretero De La Fuente & Alvaro Hernández Blanco

THE FIX

A woman engulfed in the cycle of heroin abuse finds herself trapped in a dingy motel room where she must relive the sacrifices she made that informed her drug-filled life, forcing her to acknowledge her demons and exorcise them to grow.

Meet your new favorite female filmmakers. Best friends turned partners Amanda Greer and Denise Reed founded The Abbey Stories, a film and theatrical production company creating stories by women, for women. Raw, flawed, gritty, and growing women, who are beautiful because of it. No damsels in distress. No gimmicks. Different. Difficult. They’re building stories around women’s truth.

Directed by Denise Reed, Amanda Greer

Produced by Denise Reed, Amanda Greer

THE GAME CAMERA

When a grieving woman installs a night vision camera in her mini horse’s corral, the specter of a human intruder on her rural Kansas ranch makes her reconsider her husband’s death.

Emily Railsback is an American director and educator. Her credits include the first feature documentary, OUR BLOOD IS WINE (2018) premiered at the Berlinale International Film Festival, followed by a US theatrical release by Music Box Films and an international release by Magnet Film. Her second feature, AMERICAN PARENT (2023) premiered at BFI. She received her MFA from Columbia College Chicago, and lives in Arkansas where she teaches film production at the University of Central Arkansas.

Directed by Emily Railsback

Produced by Caro Posse

THE GENTLEMAN

SHORT IRAN, UNITED STATES ENGLISH 10 MINS

THURSDAY FEB 19

8:30 PM-11:15 PM / THURSDAY FEB 19 1:10 PM-3:05 PM

THE GENTLEMAN tells the story of an office worker who leads a double life. Beneath his polished, masculine exterior lies a hidden world of desire and transformation revealed only in private. The film explores identity, repression, and the secret selves that exist behind closed doors.

Alireza Sharifi is an Iranian screenwriter and director currently pursuing his MFA in Film at Columbia University. He graduated from the Tehran University of Art with a degree in Film Directing and completed specialized directing courses under Oscar-winning filmmaker Asghar Farhadi. His short films have been screened at several international festivals. Blending Iranian drama with American genre cinema, his work explores themes of identity and moral conflict.

Directed by Alireza Sharifi

Produced by Alireza Sharifi, Gabriela Guimaraes

THE HOWL OF THE SHE WOLF QUEJÍO DE LOBA

THURSDAY FEB 19 5:50 PM-8:45 PM

THE HOWL OF THE SHE WOLF is a cry for women’s freedom. It aims to assert that no human being is born sexist and that the solution to this social issue lies in educating boys and girls, especially in rural areas where this horror is even more prevalent. The protagonist realizes the reality of her childhood when it is her turn to raise her three children. That sense of protection forces her to break away from the love, refuge, and false sense of security she shared with her little ones in the home where they grew up. The film argues that all women who are victims of gender-based violence are imprisoned within four invisible walls.

Andrea Ganfornina spent years hearing in her training sessions that avoiding children on a film set was the wisest choice. However, in her first professional opportunity, she wanted to break all the rules she had written in her notes. It was impossible to voice her claim without involving, not one, but three young kids for whom she wrote and directed with the utmost respect. Now they call her ‘Andrea of Emotions’ because they remember the exercises they did during rehearsals; filming was like a game. For them and herself.

Directed by Andrea Ganfornina

Produced by Luis Romero

THE INSPECTOR

EL REVISOR

A fake gas inspector visits vulnerable elderly people to take advantage of them. It is now the turn for Carmen, a charming grandmother who keeps great antiques.

Jandro has been involved in the entertainment industry for 30 years. He is a Spanish Champion of Comedy Magic and 6 times winner of the ‘Penn & Teller’s Fool Us’ award in Las Vegas. After spending several years studying filmmaking on his own, he went to the NYFA to study directing and to Florence to learn camera work with Per Holmes. THE INSPECTOR is his second short film as a scriptwriter, director, and producer after the international success of DIG. He´s now working on the third one.

Directed by Jandro Lopez

Produced by Jandro Lopez, Rafa Piqueras

THE LEGEND OF KING NIBBLES

ANIMATED UNITED STATES ENGLISH 3 MINS SATURDAY FEB 21 8:50 PM-11:59 PM / FRIDAY FEB 20 2:45

A hamster king is a victim of his own demise when he refuses to share his excessive wealth with the rest of his kingdom.

Alison Chang and Toprak Bekiroglu are recently graduated computer animation students from Ringling College of Art and Design. They hope to pursue animation and look development respectively and created this film as a culmination of their education and interests.

Directed by Alison Chang, Toprak Bekiroglu

Produced by Alison Chang, Toprak Bekiroglu

THE OTHER SIDE

Set in the heart of Mumbai, THE OTHER SIDE is a compelling portrayal of the struggles endured by a Mumbai street artist aspiring to attend one of the country’s finest art academies. When he is faced with choosing between his desires and a friend’s needs, he must choose between his heart and his conscience.

Nikita Hattangady makes films with uplifting narratives that explore themes of social issues and personal transformation. As Head of Programming at The Center for Indic Films, she champions films highlighting the Indic culture and positivity. Nikita enjoys traveling, family time and watching movies. She has degrees in Electrical Engineering and Business Management.

Directed by Nikita Hattangady

Produced by Nikita Hattangady, Ashutosh Hinge & Nouveau Journey Productions

THE WOMAN IN THE BED

An elderly woman awakes to discover she is unable to speak or move. Trapped in her bed, she soon realises that she is not alone.

Victor Mellors is a director, producer and writer with experience in film and theatre. He holds an MA in Text and Performance from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art with distinction and has trained in filmmaking at the National Film and Television School. Victor is passionate about highlighting human stories.

Directed by Victor Mellors

Produced by Victor Mellors, Kate Mellors

WINTER FILM FESTIVAL

TIN SOLDIERS

SHORT UNITED STATES ENGLISH 17 MINS

FRIDAY FEB 20 5:45 PM-8:30 PM

Falling behind in class, a parent-teacher conference sends Caius down a pharmaceutical rabbit hole that impacts him for the rest of his life. As he grows, Caius must navigate the complexities of mental health treatment at a time when he’s still discovering what ‘normal’ is.

Aris Federman is a Director, Producer and Cinematographer, and Co-Founder of Blue Oak Productions. He has produced, written, and directed multiple projects that have screened at festivals across the country. Aris believes in storytelling’s power to create empathy, unity, and human connection.

Directed by Aris Federman

Produced by Zoe Dunay, Aris Federman

TOM’S 2ND SUICIDE

FEATURE ISRAEL ENGLISH, HEBREW 99 MINS

SATURDAY FEB 21 2:35 PM-4:55 PM

Today is March 9, which means it is time for Tom’s annual suicide attempt. Tom had accepted two years ago that her life is not going to get any better. Since then, she is doing the best she can to end it. The only problem is that she keeps failing. This year she prepped it so the exhaust pipe will do the job for her, but as “bad” luck has it, the car fails to restart. Moments later, some good luck does come her way, as the chivalrous Kobi happens to pass by with his working car in perfect timing. The pair start driving together and embark on an extremely surreal road-trip, one that is aimed towards ending Tom’s life.

Karni Haneman is a director and writer, graduate of The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London. Her first feature film, F*CK YOU JESSICA BLAIR (2017) was screened in film festivals around the world, such as the prestigious Mar del Plata Film Festival, and won several awards in various other festivals. TOM’S 2ND SUICIDE (2025) is her second feature film, recently premiered at Bafici in Argentina and Hof in Germany.

Directed by Karni Haneman

Produced by Sivan Vardina

US VS THEM

In a time when the conversation around law enforcement is fraught with complexity and urgency, US VS. THEM is a clarion call for reflection, empathy, and transformation. Conceived by a veteran law enforcement official with decades of firsthand experience, this film steps boldly into the debate, inviting viewers to confront the ingrained “bad guy vs good guy” culture that has long defined the American policing narrative and scrutinizes the adversarial mindset that has gripped much of American law enforcement with an exploration of how this ideology shapes policies, community relations, and the very soul of policing in the United States.

As the founder of A2V Media, Emmy-Award winning director Alex Vishno brings a uniquely human-centered approach to filmmaking—focusing on projects that challenge perceptions and ignite dialogue. His latest work, US VS. THEM, exemplifies this ethos. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Alex launched his career behind the scenes working for Michael Jackson. That experience catalyzed a deep understanding of the power of live and visual storytelling.

Directed by Alex Vishno, Charles Grady

Produced by Chris Stocklin, Luke Williams

VIRGIN QUEEN

WEB SERIES UNITED STATES ENGLISH 19 MINS FRIDAY FEB 20 8:40 PM-11:10 PM

VIRGIN QUEEN follows Donya, an ambitious Iranian-American high schooler who launches an outrageous campaign to become Prom Person, the gender-neutral replacement for Prom King and Queen at Sovereignty High. Determined to prove a girl like her can be the center of the story, Donya dives into fake promposals, strategic PDAs, and increasingly unhinged schemes. Obsessed with losing her virginity as the key to popularity and belonging, she believes her ethnicity is also a barrier to success. Torn between Skaz, the school’s golden boy, and Cullen, an emo new kid she suspects is a vampire, Donya’s schemes spiral into public scandals and a ban from prom, forcing her to confront what she truly wants.

Donya Rahimi is an Iranian-American director, actor, and writer from Ohio. She holds a BFA in Acting from Wright State University. After performing in numerous theatre productions around Columbus, she now focuses on creating bold, character-driven work for film and television, bringing a distinct cultural and comedic perspective to the screen.

Directed by Donya Rahimi

Produced by Donya Rahimi, Sophie Kullman

WHAT IF I DIE FLYING OVER OKLAHOMA?

FEB 20 5:45 PM-8:30 PM

5

Trapped in the middle seat, singer-songwriter Rae Isla spirals into an existential crisis that transforms airplane anxiety into a surreal question of “what if?”

H. Nelson Tracey is filmmaker based in Los Angeles. In 2024 his debut feature, BREAKUP SEASON, screened at 39 festivals nationwide and received a distribution with Buffalo 8 and a limited theatrical run in December 2024. The film is now available to stream on Amazon and Tubi. Tracey befriended musician Rae Isla after choosing her music for the BREAKUP SEASON trailer, and their collaboration on WHAT IF I DIE FLYING OVER OKLAHOMA? marks his first time directing a music video.

Directed by H. Nelson Tracey

Produced by Sam Friske

Y.M.G.

A friendly, non-threatening yuppie breaks the fourth wall to introduce his girlfriend’s lovable qualities in a suspicious montage that gradually reveals his murderous intentions.

Alexandra Warrick is a director, writer and actress based in New York City.

Directed by Alexandra Warrick

Produced by Aaron Dalla Villa, Emmet Dotan

EDUCATION

Winter Film Festival believes that education is the primary means for the emerging filmmaker to get ahead in the industry. We are delighted to offer the following educational opportunities. Check website for details and updates.

Education sessions are FREE and open to the public. REGAL Union Square Cinemas, 850 Broadway, Theater 2 FILM

FESTIVALS AND HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Thursday February 19, 12:45 PM - 02:00 PM

In this session, The Film Festival Doctor, Rebekah Louisa Smith, introduces to you how to look after your mental health by sharing with you some essential tips and techniques with regards to how to adapt the right type of mindset and take care of yourself as you navigate the often intense and stressful world of film festivals.

CASTING STRATEGIES FOR INDIE FILMMAKERS & ACTORS

Thursday February 19, 02:15 PM - 03:30 PM

Casting is a crucial element in filmmaking that can make or break the success of a project, especially in the indie realm where resources may be limited. Join Richard Jordan from Richard Jordan Casting and learn what you need to know to navigate the casting process effectively and efficiently. The session is geared both towards filmmakers looking to find and attract talent, choose the right actors, SAG vs non-union, handling auditions, contracts and negotiations and to actors preparing for auditions, getting their name out there, handling rejection and protecting their rights.

INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTION STRATEGIES: INFORMATION VS. DISINFORMATION

Thursday February 19, 03:45 PM - 05:00 PM

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! 40-year distribution veteran Dan Gurlitz, the founder of Soundview Media Partners, is a specialist in establishing and/expanding distribution for independent features and documentaries. He will be discussing distribution strategies for both physical and digital media exploitation. Dan’s sessions are lively and free flowing, so Q&A will take place throughout.

CRASH COURSE IN MAKING YOUR FIRST FEATURE FILM

Friday February 20, 12:45 PM - 02:00 PM

Shooting your first feature film is an enormous and sometimes terrifying undertaking! We’ve assembled a team of first time directors with feature films in the fest to talk about their experience and what they learned about the process, including fundraising, casting, the advice they wish they had taken (and what they wish they’d ignored), building a rational film festival strategy and so much more!

SUSTAINABLE FILMMAKING 101

Friday February 20, 02:15 PM - 03:30 PM

NYC Film Green Office Hours Presents Sustainable Filmmaking 101: Why It Matters and How to Get Started. Join the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment in NYC for a LIVE NYC Film Green 101-level session. We will be exploring why sustainability matters, where productions have the greatest impact, and what emerging filmmakers can do. Film and television production has a significant environmental footprint, but it can be mitigated with the right planning and strategies. The NYC Film Green Office Hours series is an initiative of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) and is moderated by Shira Gans, Sr. Executive Director of Policy and Programs.

PRODUCING 101

Friday February 20, 03:45 PM - 05:00 PM

The right producer can make all the difference in the world! If you are a filmmaker, how do you find a producer, how do you work with one and what you should expect from your producer? If you want to be a producer, what are the ins and outs of really being a producer and what are some of the skills you haven’t even thought about that you might need? We will demystify film production for filmmakers and those looking to get into the field! We’ve gathered a group of talented and hardworking producers to discuss the profession and offer some guidance about bringing on the producer who is right for your project or the experience you need to become a producer in today’s independent film industry.