Cally Nguyen - 23, Karyn Lopez - 22, Cameron J. Schulz - 22 | CA, USA

“This moving and visually captivating film from Cally Nguyen captures the quiet tenderness between a grandfather and grandson facing an uncertain future. I was immediately drawn into the quiet atmosphere they share during their final days together. Instead of “I love you,” their bond shows through an “I hate you so much” that says far more than the words themselves.”

Family Portraits

Giran Findlay Liu - 23 | Canada

“Giran Findlay Liu tells this story with such care and restraint. Through small interactions, the film reveals the quiet tension between a mother, her son, and his family, allowing us to see both the love and the pain she carries. Beautifully shot and paced, it leaves you sitting with those emotions long after it ends. This is a must watch for sure!”

Opening Night

Eli Staub - 23, Caroline McDonald - 23, Amy Roach - 23, Cally Nguyen - 23, Sophie Wright - 23 | USA

“Eli Staub's Four Square instantly took me back to 5th grade recess, lining up to play four square where every round felt like the most important game of the day. It captures the playful yet fiercely competitive spirit of the playground in such a sweet and lighthearted way. I also love seeing the range Staub continues to show across their NFFTY films.”

Let’s Get Physical

Keith Leung - 23, Xiaochen Yu - 24 | NY, USA

“I loved the cinematography and the way Keith Leung creates a whole world within the house that invites us to follow along through each moment. It is so fun to move with the music as the video unfolds, while still carrying a real sense of warmth. Watching it, I couldn’t help but see reflections of myself, and by the end it left me with a deeper appreciation for my own mom.”

Opening Night

Zihan Yang - 23, Jiaying Lin - 23, Nikos Campbell - 23 | NY, USA

“This surely brought tears to my eyes. The quiet intimacy of the film reminded me of my own grandmother and the lingering feelings that come with watching someone you love grow older. The small moments between them felt so tender and familiar, even bringing back memories of visiting my mom’s family in China. As Zihan Yang intended, the film beautifully blurs the line between fiction and nonfiction, allowing these moments to feel deeply lived in.”

Weight of the World presented by Blackmagic Design