Abe Dassa Kaye - 24 | NY, USA

“The cinematography in Abe Dassa Kaye’s short film AN ENCOUNTER has stuck with me since my first watch; I loved rollerblading through the city streets with Eli, and you can really feel the intention behind the construction of each frame of his story. A stunning slice of life exploring intimacy, desire, and independence, teeming with empathy and curiosity — there’s so much to enjoy in this one.” 

Friday Night Spotlight

Jillian Moray - 23, Gordy De St. Jeor - 22 | CA, USA

“To be a fly on the wall in Barbara’s home for an afternoon is such a joy. From the impeccable production design to intricate performances from Myra Turley and Ben Weinswig, it’s clear that every member of this filmmaking team understood the assignment. Director Jillian Moray balances affection and awkwardness so adeptly, I can’t wait to see what she makes next.”

Daily Grind

Alva van Niekerk - 24, Joel Wiklund Ekman - 23, Carl Sköld - 22 | Sweden

“Bookended by one of my favorite frames of this festival edition, director Alva van Niekerk’s film MY DAD IS DEAD shook me to my core. Edith Parke masterfully depicts Lo’s silent struggle with a subtlety and nuance that left me speechless. Incredible emerging talent in front of and behind the camera — you love to see it.”

Closing Night presented by Adobe Premiere Pro

Julia Hogg - 24, Marissa Bondi - 24 | Canada

“This film absolutely stuck the landing for me. Marissa Bondi and Gage Monroe are so charming as Elma and Brad, their chemistry creating a delightfully unnerving dynamic. There’s an electricity in this short that’s hard to put words to; I’m really looking forward to experiencing it with an audience in the theater.”

Uneasy Street

Xinpeng Huang - 23, Keer Zhang - 24, Tuvshinsaikhan Ganbayar - 22 | TN, USA & China

“A pixelated odyssey that had me hooked from the first nostalgic note, Xinpeng Huang’s STELLA MARIS is a feat of animated filmmaking. From the ever-shifting aesthetics to the pivots in the plot, Bobbi’s journey is well worth the watch.”

Daily Grind