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New Filmmakers Forum

A juried competition for first-time American-independent filmmakers, with all five films accompanied by their directors. A celebration of fresh voices in American indie cinema, this forum showcases debut works from talented first-time filmmakers. Run follows a struggling writer on a path to cathartic healing, while Paper Marriage is a touching story about a Chinese immigrant navigating love and legality. These films represent the future of independent filmmaking, offering new perspectives on timeless themes like relationships, identity, and personal growth.

American Indie Spotlight, New Filmmakers Forum

Paper Marriage

Film Paper Marriage Directed by Jeff Man Produced by the Duplass Brothers, Fanny, a Chinese immigrant, pays Jeff to be her fake husband in a...
American Indie Spotlight, International Spotlight, New Filmmakers Forum

Run

Film Run Directed by Bernard kordieh JB, a struggling writer, runs to escape memories of a toxic relationship. His encounter with a man living...
American Indie Spotlight, Human Rights Spotlight, International Spotlight, New Filmmakers Forum

Stampila

Film Stampila Directed by David Larson Determined to overthrow the powerful oligarch who controls her country, a middle-aged woman, armed with only her wit...
American Indie Spotlight, Asian Focus, International Spotlight, New Filmmakers Forum, Shorts Competition

The Strangers’ Case

Film The Strangers’ Case Directed by Brandt Andersen In “Sir Thomas More,” Shakespeare wrote a speech in which More makes a passionate defense for refugees, pleading...
American Indie Spotlight, Asian Focus, International Spotlight, New Filmmakers Forum, Women in Film Spotlight

The Umesh Chronicles

Film The Umesh Chronicles Directed by Pooja Kaul A woman questions the nature of freedom as she contrasts her privileged life with that of those who...
American Indie Spotlight, New Filmmakers Forum, Women in Film Spotlight

Where in the Hell

Film Where in the Hell Directed by Laramie Dennis When her girlfriend vanishes mid-road trip, sardonic prop master Kasey ends up stranded in a California backwater. She...