Saturday August 12th Film Sets
Get tickets now here! on FilmFreeway
High School Set
12:00pm-2:00pm Upstairs, Theater 2
Penthurst (4:16) Dir. Cosmo DeGennaro
Life of Earth (1:47) Dir. Cosmo DeGennaro
Trust a Poetry (3:07) Dir. Dilion Zeqiri
Checkpoint (4:18) Dir. Dan Cunningham, Jason Miglior
A Day in the Life (5:01) Dir. Ryan Paduano
A young man thinks he is an influencer
Super Dude (4:52) Dir. Michael Castelli
A young man thinks he is a super hero
The Hallway Monitor (3:39) Dir. Justin Fearon
The Tea Party (3:20) Dir. Arianna Grace Goarley, Noah Hollinshead (Canada)
Alice becomes anxious when her friends arrive early to her tea party. As her anxiety peaks, it triggers the characteristics of her ADHD to take on the form of characters from Alice in Wonderland. Will Alice be able to find the coping skills to make her tea party a success?
Out of Control (13:13) Dir. Chris Cioffi
When Lily went swimming in a creek, she has no idea that she became infected by a parasite that alters her perception of reality.
The Last Liftoff (14:45) Dir. Collin Nelson
An astronaut, with an impending mission on the horizon, tries to reconnect with his teenage daughter before it's too late.
The Dark Side of Pet Breeding (9:36) Dir. Asher Anantham, Alana Keira Anantham, Zarina Penn Aronson
For thousands of years, humans have been breeding dogs for work and companionship. When breeding was done in the right way, both species were arguably better off from it. But today, puppy mills profit by catering to cost conscious and whimsical consumers. It's time congress put a stop to irresponsible breeding or, sooner or later, we will no longer recognize “man’s best friend’.
The Story of 5.18 Gwangju Uprising (12:29) Dir. Eunchae Shin (Republic of Korea)
Bestiary (12:35) Dir. Paul Van der Stegen (France)
When the girl they call "the dog" leaves their school for good, Pauline and her gang decide to choose for themselves a new pet hate, in spite of their friend Julie’s warning. Among unspoken words, rivalries and impulses of violence, this infernal quest might turn everything upside down.
Home, Sweet Home (2:02) Dir. Aria Kutty
College Set 1
12:15pm-2:00pm First Floor Room 1
B-Roll (10:38) Dir. Ryan James Fogler
2 guys record a murder happening on camera while getting B-Roll for their student film.
The Grassland Whisper (12;48) Dir. Jiaqing Lin (China)
On the grasslands of Xinjiang lies a small traditional pastoral family, from which a Kazakh teenager has been raised with the mainstream Han education and is about to come of age. His father, a traditional shepherd, has a strained relationship with his adolescent son due to their different ways of thinking. Together, they set out on a journey to find their lost horse.
Undefined (10:28) Dir. Ruojia Wang
The Photographer and the Florist finally accept themselves while getting to know more about each other- It doesn't matter how we are defined as long as we embrace ourselves.
Rec (9:33) Dir. Katelyn Johnston
A girl buys a doll online intending to use her as a prop in a short film she will film later in the year. What she didn't know was the doll was holding a dark entity inside and its now been unleashed.
Away with the Fairies (14:18) Dir. Morgan Lui
A disillusioned artist longs to escape the burdens and expectations of the real world. But then, the discovery of a fairy circle tempts her into leaving all that she knows and loves behind.
Grace & Chloe (14:52) Dir. Erika Lynn Jolie
The longtime relationship of college sweethearts Grace and Chloe unravels over the course of a night out.
The Drawing of Destiny (9:35) Dir. Varak Kaloustian
Just when award-winning comic author Dylan Mak’s latest deadline approaches, the protagonist of his newest comic, Stickman Joe, knocks on his front door! As Dylan gets to know his own creation, he realizes that the version of Stickman Joe in the real world is different from the one he’s currently writing. With this new distraction, can Dylan fulfill his deadline in time? Or will Stickman Joe prove that a mere drawing can control his own destiny?
Garage Sale Ladies (9:30) Dir. Joanna Downing
Two women share how their friendship deepened through their love of garage sales.
College Set 2
2:15pm-4:00pm First Floor Room 1
Joints (12:33) Dir. Hadrian Lynn
Feel (7:13) Dir Mai Benezra
This film is about accepting your emotions in order to heal. The character is an acting student in New York who is struggling to connect to herself, since she is denying her past. During the film she is learning how to face her past and let go.
A Summer Dream (2:20) Dir. Wendy Jia
On the evening of Fern's 22nd birthday, she reminisces about her Asian American childhood through three different dream worlds, bringing together Chinese folktales and blissful imagination.
Knocking on Doors (8:43) Dir. Cameron Spector
On Dean's last day of campaigning, he gets reminded of how he got to the end of Election Day. He learns through his memories what it means to be an adult.
Waterlogged (11:22) Dir. AJ Favorito
A young, mild-mannered, office worker is constantly taken advantage of by his boss. But when his computer gets waterlogged the night before a big presentation, he is able to sit back and think about what is really important to him in his life.
Driving Her Away (11:01) Dir. Maddy Freeman
A teenage girl is ready to learn how to drive, but her mother isn't ready for her to grow up.
For Lonely Nights (13:19) Dir. Veronica Tullo
5:00 AM. Lily is convinced she is incapable of love. Everything changes for Lily when she hears his voice, and he will do whatever he can to make her feel like she is not alone.
Voyeur (24:40) Dir. Anshul Mahakud
A photography student finds herself infatuated with a barely functional couple whilst trying to find her new inspiration for her final project.
The Academy (9:36) Dir. Dayveon Elliott
“The Academy” is about a girl named Becky who joins the police academy and is an oddball. Despite her best efforts of trying to fit in and make friends, everyone forms a plan to get rid of her.
Mustache with Mike Vezza (7:18) Dir. Shekhar Iyer
MUSTACHE is a short documentary featuring Mike Vezza that showcases the journey Mike has had after growing his mustache.
STUDENT AWARDS 4:30pm-5:30pm
Horror
6:30pm-8:30pm Upstairs
3:33am (9:22) Dir. Matthew Marin
An insecure husband attempts to reconnect with his estranged wife but their baby interferes.
Enter The Room (15:00) Dir. Harry Waldman
A young adult (Brian) is visited by his brother, Jeremy, who needs a place to stay as he settles into his new city. The two polar opposite personalities begin to clash as Jeremy's presence poses a threat to Brian's way of life. Brian's uptight personality and unreasonable living standards rub off on Jeremy, creating an incredible amount of tension. Bad blood, stemming from a traumatic past event reveals the shocking truth of the brothers' current situations, as Brian struggles to differentiate between reality and his worst nightmares.
Follower (13:49) Dir. Scott W. Perry
A survivor of a cult is interrogated by a determined detective to understand the disturbing mindset of the cult's activities and its evil leader.
Blood and Lust (37:00) Dir. George Firewalker Carlson, Patrick Eichner
Gus fills the empty void in his soul with sex, drugs and gambling, he's spiraling out of control. His tendency for self-destruction becomes a quest for survival when one faithful night he's faced with unspeakable terror and is stalked by a bevy of beautiful creatures of the night.
Lucy (4:20) Dir. Jayleen S. Perez
Lucy wakes up unaware of where she is or of the hell she is in, only for it to get worse. The film is an allegory for the levels of hell, and Lucy is making her way further down.
A Tiger in the Subway (9:13) Dir. James Abrams
An agoraphobic painter reflects on an old white lie his mother told him as a child.
Killer in a Small Town (18:23) Dir. Clinton Cornwell
True crime super-fan, Will Wesley, has seen it all, but tonight a face in the dark may outsmart him.
Get tickets now here! on FilmFreeway
High School Set
12:00pm-2:00pm Upstairs, Theater 2
Penthurst (4:16) Dir. Cosmo DeGennaro
Life of Earth (1:47) Dir. Cosmo DeGennaro
Trust a Poetry (3:07) Dir. Dilion Zeqiri
Checkpoint (4:18) Dir. Dan Cunningham, Jason Miglior
A Day in the Life (5:01) Dir. Ryan Paduano
A young man thinks he is an influencer
Super Dude (4:52) Dir. Michael Castelli
A young man thinks he is a super hero
The Hallway Monitor (3:39) Dir. Justin Fearon
The Tea Party (3:20) Dir. Arianna Grace Goarley, Noah Hollinshead (Canada)
Alice becomes anxious when her friends arrive early to her tea party. As her anxiety peaks, it triggers the characteristics of her ADHD to take on the form of characters from Alice in Wonderland. Will Alice be able to find the coping skills to make her tea party a success?
Out of Control (13:13) Dir. Chris Cioffi
When Lily went swimming in a creek, she has no idea that she became infected by a parasite that alters her perception of reality.
The Last Liftoff (14:45) Dir. Collin Nelson
An astronaut, with an impending mission on the horizon, tries to reconnect with his teenage daughter before it's too late.
The Dark Side of Pet Breeding (9:36) Dir. Asher Anantham, Alana Keira Anantham, Zarina Penn Aronson
For thousands of years, humans have been breeding dogs for work and companionship. When breeding was done in the right way, both species were arguably better off from it. But today, puppy mills profit by catering to cost conscious and whimsical consumers. It's time congress put a stop to irresponsible breeding or, sooner or later, we will no longer recognize “man’s best friend’.
The Story of 5.18 Gwangju Uprising (12:29) Dir. Eunchae Shin (Republic of Korea)
Bestiary (12:35) Dir. Paul Van der Stegen (France)
When the girl they call "the dog" leaves their school for good, Pauline and her gang decide to choose for themselves a new pet hate, in spite of their friend Julie’s warning. Among unspoken words, rivalries and impulses of violence, this infernal quest might turn everything upside down.
Home, Sweet Home (2:02) Dir. Aria Kutty
College Set 1
12:15pm-2:00pm First Floor Room 1
B-Roll (10:38) Dir. Ryan James Fogler
2 guys record a murder happening on camera while getting B-Roll for their student film.
The Grassland Whisper (12;48) Dir. Jiaqing Lin (China)
On the grasslands of Xinjiang lies a small traditional pastoral family, from which a Kazakh teenager has been raised with the mainstream Han education and is about to come of age. His father, a traditional shepherd, has a strained relationship with his adolescent son due to their different ways of thinking. Together, they set out on a journey to find their lost horse.
Undefined (10:28) Dir. Ruojia Wang
The Photographer and the Florist finally accept themselves while getting to know more about each other- It doesn't matter how we are defined as long as we embrace ourselves.
Rec (9:33) Dir. Katelyn Johnston
A girl buys a doll online intending to use her as a prop in a short film she will film later in the year. What she didn't know was the doll was holding a dark entity inside and its now been unleashed.
Away with the Fairies (14:18) Dir. Morgan Lui
A disillusioned artist longs to escape the burdens and expectations of the real world. But then, the discovery of a fairy circle tempts her into leaving all that she knows and loves behind.
Grace & Chloe (14:52) Dir. Erika Lynn Jolie
The longtime relationship of college sweethearts Grace and Chloe unravels over the course of a night out.
The Drawing of Destiny (9:35) Dir. Varak Kaloustian
Just when award-winning comic author Dylan Mak’s latest deadline approaches, the protagonist of his newest comic, Stickman Joe, knocks on his front door! As Dylan gets to know his own creation, he realizes that the version of Stickman Joe in the real world is different from the one he’s currently writing. With this new distraction, can Dylan fulfill his deadline in time? Or will Stickman Joe prove that a mere drawing can control his own destiny?
Garage Sale Ladies (9:30) Dir. Joanna Downing
Two women share how their friendship deepened through their love of garage sales.
College Set 2
2:15pm-4:00pm First Floor Room 1
Joints (12:33) Dir. Hadrian Lynn
Feel (7:13) Dir Mai Benezra
This film is about accepting your emotions in order to heal. The character is an acting student in New York who is struggling to connect to herself, since she is denying her past. During the film she is learning how to face her past and let go.
A Summer Dream (2:20) Dir. Wendy Jia
On the evening of Fern's 22nd birthday, she reminisces about her Asian American childhood through three different dream worlds, bringing together Chinese folktales and blissful imagination.
Knocking on Doors (8:43) Dir. Cameron Spector
On Dean's last day of campaigning, he gets reminded of how he got to the end of Election Day. He learns through his memories what it means to be an adult.
Waterlogged (11:22) Dir. AJ Favorito
A young, mild-mannered, office worker is constantly taken advantage of by his boss. But when his computer gets waterlogged the night before a big presentation, he is able to sit back and think about what is really important to him in his life.
Driving Her Away (11:01) Dir. Maddy Freeman
A teenage girl is ready to learn how to drive, but her mother isn't ready for her to grow up.
For Lonely Nights (13:19) Dir. Veronica Tullo
5:00 AM. Lily is convinced she is incapable of love. Everything changes for Lily when she hears his voice, and he will do whatever he can to make her feel like she is not alone.
Voyeur (24:40) Dir. Anshul Mahakud
A photography student finds herself infatuated with a barely functional couple whilst trying to find her new inspiration for her final project.
The Academy (9:36) Dir. Dayveon Elliott
“The Academy” is about a girl named Becky who joins the police academy and is an oddball. Despite her best efforts of trying to fit in and make friends, everyone forms a plan to get rid of her.
Mustache with Mike Vezza (7:18) Dir. Shekhar Iyer
MUSTACHE is a short documentary featuring Mike Vezza that showcases the journey Mike has had after growing his mustache.
STUDENT AWARDS 4:30pm-5:30pm
Horror
6:30pm-8:30pm Upstairs
3:33am (9:22) Dir. Matthew Marin
An insecure husband attempts to reconnect with his estranged wife but their baby interferes.
Enter The Room (15:00) Dir. Harry Waldman
A young adult (Brian) is visited by his brother, Jeremy, who needs a place to stay as he settles into his new city. The two polar opposite personalities begin to clash as Jeremy's presence poses a threat to Brian's way of life. Brian's uptight personality and unreasonable living standards rub off on Jeremy, creating an incredible amount of tension. Bad blood, stemming from a traumatic past event reveals the shocking truth of the brothers' current situations, as Brian struggles to differentiate between reality and his worst nightmares.
Follower (13:49) Dir. Scott W. Perry
A survivor of a cult is interrogated by a determined detective to understand the disturbing mindset of the cult's activities and its evil leader.
Blood and Lust (37:00) Dir. George Firewalker Carlson, Patrick Eichner
Gus fills the empty void in his soul with sex, drugs and gambling, he's spiraling out of control. His tendency for self-destruction becomes a quest for survival when one faithful night he's faced with unspeakable terror and is stalked by a bevy of beautiful creatures of the night.
Lucy (4:20) Dir. Jayleen S. Perez
Lucy wakes up unaware of where she is or of the hell she is in, only for it to get worse. The film is an allegory for the levels of hell, and Lucy is making her way further down.
A Tiger in the Subway (9:13) Dir. James Abrams
An agoraphobic painter reflects on an old white lie his mother told him as a child.
Killer in a Small Town (18:23) Dir. Clinton Cornwell
True crime super-fan, Will Wesley, has seen it all, but tonight a face in the dark may outsmart him.
Sunday August 13th Film Sets
Get tickets now here! on FilmFreeway
11:00am-12:30pm Upstairs, Theater 2
Sheltered from Time (10:13) Dir. Sadie Duarte (Spain)
Adam thought that his wife Lilith would always be with him in Paradise. Yet, from Genesis until today, history repeats itself. A fantasy movie based on the myth of Lilith as the first woman who rebelled against patriarchy, the constellation Auriga, fallen angels and the mystery of the eclipsing binary star Almaaz.
Comedian President (24:02) Dir. Aric Grooms
From Executive Producer and Head Writer Neil Berliner comes, Comedian President, an innovative film poking fun at the current state of American politics and the upcoming 2024 presidential election. In this story, Americans have taken notice of the popularity of the Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a former stand-up comedian, and have started a grassroots movement to elect a comedian as their next president. You'll hear from the major comedian candidates who announce their plans for the country, as well as commentary on their speeches from former U.S. presidents and presidential candidates.
Even The Darkness Has Arms (14:38) Dir. Jake Graydon
A monster of the woods discovers an abandoned baby girl and raises the child as her own.
Love’s a Thin Diet (30:00) Dir. Amy Losi
A college student, an older professor, a small private office, a bottle of wine, and unexpected games blur the line between seduction and consent… Aphra publishes an article detrimental to her ex-husband Oliver and he confronts her about it. Did Oliver do something to help Aphra or did he take advantage of her, as she asserts in her article? The story of their relationship provides the backdrop for this play about sexual harassment and the dynamics of power, control, choice, and revenge.
Documentary Set
11:15am-1:00pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
My Brother Charlie (11:31) Dir. Yogi Chavada
Life is beautiful, but it is also unpredictable. We aren’t always able to live life on our own terms; it has the terms set for us. “My Brother Charlie” is a documentary film that depicts a deep, empowering, and emotional bond between a sister and her brother who suffers from developmental disabilities and ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). This film shows her journey through the highs and lows of life, her choices, and sacrifices for her beloved brother.
Finish on Top (10:39) Dir. Jesse Rindner
Following New Jersey City University (NJCU) women's wrestling team through their highs and lows, as senior Naomi Henry completes her final season on the team. But more importantly, her final season with her coach of 7 years Barry Hart. The coach she met her first day wrestling in high school and followed to NJCU.
“The Great Connector”: The Story of The Lawrence Hopewell Trail (17:00) Dir. Thomas Joseph Bentey
The Story of The Lawrence Hopewell Trail showcases how local governments and big corporations can come together to create something wonderful. Twenty years ago, Ms. Eleanor Horne of Educational Testing Service and Ms. Becky Taylor of Bristol Myers Squibb conceived the idea of a nature trail connecting local communities in Mercer County, New Jersey. Since the early 2000s hundreds of thousands, (if not Millions) of people have walked, biked and hiked the trail. This 22 mile loop is nearly complete and encourages individuals to get outside, enjoy nature and connect with our fellow neighbors. This Mini Documentary serves as a testament to all the great people involved with this marvelous Non-Profit and its tremendous benefit to our community.
Dangerous Grounds (13:04) Dir. Vinu Joseph
A Documentary about Dr. Cuthbert, a lifelong resident of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, and his continuing battle to shut down the Limerick Nuclear Power plants due to the health risks it poses to the residents who live near them!
On Site (14:04) Dir. Mitch Yapko, Allen Rueckert
Property management is one of the most exciting, under-regulated and fast-growing industries in the United States. This is the story of one such property manager - Derek Setliff. He's very important. Don't believe me? Just ask him.
Two Days in The Desert (8:34) Dir. Joseph Sernio
The Kokhanokers (24:45) Dir. Fern Lopez
Deep in the Alaskan wilderness, on the shore of the legendary Lake Iliamna, lies a historic renowned hunting and fishing lodge. The lodge is home to one of the best remaining and most pristine sock-eye salmon runs in the world. A place so remote it’s accessible only by an often-treacherous boat ride or seaplane; only the most adventurous have made the journey. Unoccupied for 30 years, a group of investors and friends has decided to attempt to restore and potentially reopen the lodge. The scope is daunting, and they could lose it all but with great risk comes great reward. Bears, bugs and weather are only a few of the challenges they face but with deep conviction and planning they may prevail… This film was a labor of love and much like the lodge we were faced with our own challenges.
1:15pm-3:00pm Upstairs, Theatre 2
Beyond Skin Deep (13:23) Dir. Stacey Larkin
A visit to Gina's intolerant mother in law triggers an argument between her and her husband Todd regarding her involvement with their biracial child.
Bigot (15:18) Dir. Joseph Aspromonti
Robert Downing struggles with his staunch religious beliefs during a time when his family needs each other most.
Blame (9:38) Dir. Derek Brown
Follows three combative sisters who visit their mother for the first time in an Assisted Living Facility, which they forced her to move into. The film opens in a non-linear fashion, with a fateful phone call made by one of the sisters, Maude, outside the Assisted Living Facility. This call is intercut with the flashback of the sisters' arrival, their reminiscing upon the childhood they shared with their brother, Bryan, and their mother's repeated denial of her daughter’s visit through an unsuspecting Nurse Jackson.
Gentle Boy (20:00) Dir. Caleb Grandoit
A young African American tries to navigate through life ~ and come to terms with a painful upbringing ~ through his photography.
First Last Kiss (13:28) Dir. Nathan Dice
Two lovers go out to a restaurant on a first date. Years later, the two meet back up at the same restaurant to hash out their ended relationship.
The Graveyard Medium (20:00) Dir. Maria Filippone
A widow who visits her husband's grave daily, develops the ability to communicate with others who have passed over, and consoling their loved ones. This brings her some fulfillment, but something is still missing.
NJ Shorts
1:30pm-3:00pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
Pretend (4:00) Dir. Doug Bollinger
Pretend is a music video about a couple navigating their rocky relationship. Is it over?
Why We’re Single (3:51) Dir. Jett Miller
Five different archetypes of a woman's personality argue about going on a date tonight.
Make My Own Fun (5:19) Dir. Kris Khunachak
A prince, living in a gilded cage, escaped to find out what it meant to be real.
How Far Are We Goin’ (5:35) Dir. Javonte Ginn
Two gangsters embark on what seems to be their last ride together.
Good Session (7:41) Dir. Larry Rosen
Jeff has his first therapy session. Unfortunately, the doctor may have more issues than he does.
Sara (20:43) Dir. Jake Wichansky, Holden Zuschlag
A young dance instructor must deal with a group of obnoxious teenagers bent on disrupting her class.
A Box of Chocolates (21:52) Dir. Cris Thorne
Ron has the opportunity to land a role on the next big streaming series! He just has to nail the audition. To get into character, Ron makes a reckless decision and loses a piece of himself he never thought he'd lose...
Beer Goggles (12:44) Dir. John M. Kerner
Best friends stumble upon the dangers of drinking and hooking up at a bar.
3:30pm-5:15pm Upstairs, Theatre 2
Across (14:59) Dir. Laura Sweeney
Across is a Historical Drama set in 1949 New York. Three young American World War II widows take a day trip to celebrate the younger sister's bittersweet engagement, when a corrosive and dangerous secret from the past reemerges.
Overdue (14:59) Dir. Melissa Skirboll
A romantic dramedy. Maureen and Jason are each having a very bad night. Their chance encounter gives both a glimmer of hope as they discover a shared past and a connection that brings light to the darkness in their lives.
House of La Reine (13:08) Dir. Lisa Marie Tedesco
On the eve of the grand opening of her inclusive bohemian bar and performance space, Celia struggles with insecurities about living up to the legacy of her relative who once reigned the stages of Paris.
Star Crossed (15:12) Dir. Pat Bradley
While mourning the loss of her family, a woman battling her inner demons wins the Mega Millions.
Spin (16:31) Dir. Lisa Marie Tedesco
When the curtain descends on their final performance of Romeo and Juliet in drama club, high school seniors Abigail and Sky bid a fair adieu to the stage they loved while letting their most deepest desires for one another surface at the cast party.
August in the City (15:52) Dir. Christie Conochalla
Two young women find themselves completely drawn to each other, but one fears the repercussions of society in 1978 Brooklyn.
Comedy
3:45pm-5:35pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
Benny Winner (2:14) Dir. Paul Pallotta
Benny Winner grew up with a single dream. To one day host his own trashy talk show
Pizzazz and Puzzy (5:05) Dir. Emma Hillebrecht
A young woman leaves a house party early and gets a lesson in self-confidence from a magical talking vagina.
Armed With a Dildo (4:55) Dir. Karuna Tanahashi
When Dani’s boyfriend Leslie breaks up with her, a mass shooter starts attacking the motel they were going to have a romantic night at and suddenly the breakup becomes the least of her problems.
Hilltop Hike (2:49) Dir. Robert Cunniff
Bob goes for a hike on the Hilltop and sees something he didn't expect.
Who Killed the Coach?! (5:30) Dir. Laura Sweeney
A suburban woman finds a dead body in the trunk of her car and must prioritize telling the authorities with her upcoming vacation.
The Struggle (5:00) Dir. Keith Armonaitis
Adulting is hard. Morning is harder.
Roll Check (8:33) Dir. Joey Mosca
An RPG player discovers that his dice has the ability to dictate the events of his life-from great things happening (a 20!) to real bad things happening (critical fail!) in this short comedy.
The Pinch Hitter (8:54) Dir. Jim Harkins
A young couple wants to have a baby, but the husband has a low sperm count. They ask his idiot brother to be the sperm donor.
Higher Grounds (16:59) Dir. Joe Kramer
On the fateful day intelligent life arrives to destroy Earth, one slacker alien gets sidetracked when he’s smitten with a bitter barista. Suddenly, our survival depends on whether this space-schmuck can get her number, before his plucky partner blows us sky high.
Pearly Gates (14:51) Dir. Loring Murtha
Patricia bites off more than she and Todd can chew when she agrees to let Rebecca’s aunt say with them for what turns into an open-ended visit.
The Undesirables (22:30) Dir. Joseph Pepitone
MICHAEL CHEEVERS is a slacker who has spent the last ten years of his life working in a mailroom. He has no drive, ambition or potential. After a night of drinking, he accidentally kills himself in a bizarre sexual experiment gone wrong. Michael finds himself in Purgatory and is “greeted” by SHANNI SMITH, a sassy secretary with a high opinion of herself and a low tolerance for everyone else and MARTHA MAGDALENE, a no-nonsense Human Resources manager. After they give Michael a very unwelcoming welcome, he meets with the recently demoted ST. PETER and is told that despite being a decent guy, his wasted potential and laziness is the reason he has been sentenced to Purgatory.
5:45pm-7:15pm Upstairs, Theatre 2
Ballet…ballet (4:27) Dir. Kostiantyn Mishchenko
The ballet is a purely female thing. It is a woman, a garden of beautiful flowers, and man is the gardener.
Grace & Chloe (14:52) Dir. Erika Lynn Jolie
The longtime relationship of college sweethearts Grace and Chloe unravels over the course of a night out.
I Had a Great Time Last Night (9:29) Dir. Will Martinko
Two down-on-their-luck stoners execute a bank heist when one realizes he went on a date with the teller the night before.
Canned (29:58) Dir. Steve Melone
Sherman Kinsley is a "Laugh Coordinator," the conductor for the last group of canned laughter artists in show business. The band of overlooked misfits provide the laugh track for unkillable sitcom, "Love Me Please" -- At least until the show's producer decides to fire them. Sherman rallies his team to make a last-ditch effort to keep their jobs. But will they triumph? Or will they have to embrace a new life, after the laughter?
In a Time of Jewels (39:14) Dir. Robert Asencio
With the help of a friend, Adam searches through his subconscious hoping to free himself from a traumatic event that has left him mentally imprisoned for months.
6:00pm-7:45pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
Mercy Mercy Me (4:43) Dir. Mark Anthony Cabaroy
Two young girls stumble upon a portal to the afterlife and spirit trapped inside of it.
To Be Honest (5:35) Dir. John Robert Hammerer
Two exes attempt to reconnect, unaware they each have something to hide.
One Last Time (5:00) Dir. Debra Markowitz
A woman must decide to end it with her former husband or risk ruining her current marriage.
The Better Man (6:08) Dir. Debra Markowitz
At a parole board hearing, James Carter asks for a freedom he is not certain that he deserves.
I Married Nora (12:08) Dir. Mark Anthony Cabaroy
In order to inherit her family's fortune, Nora has to be married and only has a few days to find a husband.
Don’t Eat Dead Fish (8:15) Dir. Adam Seccafico
A fisherman is haunted by a dead fish.
The Prof (22:25) Dir. Debra Markowitz
Famous indie film director, Jack Gallucci, falls from favor. His chance meeting with Marigold McCormack forces him to face the mess he’s made of his career and decide if he has it in him to try again.
Last Girls’ Trip (36:00) Dir. Dusty Noval
Three life-long middle-aged girlfriends set off on the last of their many girls’ trips, to find that a huge ask is about to change their lives and challenge their bond.
8:15pm Awards show
Get tickets now here! on FilmFreeway
11:00am-12:30pm Upstairs, Theater 2
Sheltered from Time (10:13) Dir. Sadie Duarte (Spain)
Adam thought that his wife Lilith would always be with him in Paradise. Yet, from Genesis until today, history repeats itself. A fantasy movie based on the myth of Lilith as the first woman who rebelled against patriarchy, the constellation Auriga, fallen angels and the mystery of the eclipsing binary star Almaaz.
Comedian President (24:02) Dir. Aric Grooms
From Executive Producer and Head Writer Neil Berliner comes, Comedian President, an innovative film poking fun at the current state of American politics and the upcoming 2024 presidential election. In this story, Americans have taken notice of the popularity of the Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a former stand-up comedian, and have started a grassroots movement to elect a comedian as their next president. You'll hear from the major comedian candidates who announce their plans for the country, as well as commentary on their speeches from former U.S. presidents and presidential candidates.
Even The Darkness Has Arms (14:38) Dir. Jake Graydon
A monster of the woods discovers an abandoned baby girl and raises the child as her own.
Love’s a Thin Diet (30:00) Dir. Amy Losi
A college student, an older professor, a small private office, a bottle of wine, and unexpected games blur the line between seduction and consent… Aphra publishes an article detrimental to her ex-husband Oliver and he confronts her about it. Did Oliver do something to help Aphra or did he take advantage of her, as she asserts in her article? The story of their relationship provides the backdrop for this play about sexual harassment and the dynamics of power, control, choice, and revenge.
Documentary Set
11:15am-1:00pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
My Brother Charlie (11:31) Dir. Yogi Chavada
Life is beautiful, but it is also unpredictable. We aren’t always able to live life on our own terms; it has the terms set for us. “My Brother Charlie” is a documentary film that depicts a deep, empowering, and emotional bond between a sister and her brother who suffers from developmental disabilities and ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). This film shows her journey through the highs and lows of life, her choices, and sacrifices for her beloved brother.
Finish on Top (10:39) Dir. Jesse Rindner
Following New Jersey City University (NJCU) women's wrestling team through their highs and lows, as senior Naomi Henry completes her final season on the team. But more importantly, her final season with her coach of 7 years Barry Hart. The coach she met her first day wrestling in high school and followed to NJCU.
“The Great Connector”: The Story of The Lawrence Hopewell Trail (17:00) Dir. Thomas Joseph Bentey
The Story of The Lawrence Hopewell Trail showcases how local governments and big corporations can come together to create something wonderful. Twenty years ago, Ms. Eleanor Horne of Educational Testing Service and Ms. Becky Taylor of Bristol Myers Squibb conceived the idea of a nature trail connecting local communities in Mercer County, New Jersey. Since the early 2000s hundreds of thousands, (if not Millions) of people have walked, biked and hiked the trail. This 22 mile loop is nearly complete and encourages individuals to get outside, enjoy nature and connect with our fellow neighbors. This Mini Documentary serves as a testament to all the great people involved with this marvelous Non-Profit and its tremendous benefit to our community.
Dangerous Grounds (13:04) Dir. Vinu Joseph
A Documentary about Dr. Cuthbert, a lifelong resident of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, and his continuing battle to shut down the Limerick Nuclear Power plants due to the health risks it poses to the residents who live near them!
On Site (14:04) Dir. Mitch Yapko, Allen Rueckert
Property management is one of the most exciting, under-regulated and fast-growing industries in the United States. This is the story of one such property manager - Derek Setliff. He's very important. Don't believe me? Just ask him.
Two Days in The Desert (8:34) Dir. Joseph Sernio
The Kokhanokers (24:45) Dir. Fern Lopez
Deep in the Alaskan wilderness, on the shore of the legendary Lake Iliamna, lies a historic renowned hunting and fishing lodge. The lodge is home to one of the best remaining and most pristine sock-eye salmon runs in the world. A place so remote it’s accessible only by an often-treacherous boat ride or seaplane; only the most adventurous have made the journey. Unoccupied for 30 years, a group of investors and friends has decided to attempt to restore and potentially reopen the lodge. The scope is daunting, and they could lose it all but with great risk comes great reward. Bears, bugs and weather are only a few of the challenges they face but with deep conviction and planning they may prevail… This film was a labor of love and much like the lodge we were faced with our own challenges.
1:15pm-3:00pm Upstairs, Theatre 2
Beyond Skin Deep (13:23) Dir. Stacey Larkin
A visit to Gina's intolerant mother in law triggers an argument between her and her husband Todd regarding her involvement with their biracial child.
Bigot (15:18) Dir. Joseph Aspromonti
Robert Downing struggles with his staunch religious beliefs during a time when his family needs each other most.
Blame (9:38) Dir. Derek Brown
Follows three combative sisters who visit their mother for the first time in an Assisted Living Facility, which they forced her to move into. The film opens in a non-linear fashion, with a fateful phone call made by one of the sisters, Maude, outside the Assisted Living Facility. This call is intercut with the flashback of the sisters' arrival, their reminiscing upon the childhood they shared with their brother, Bryan, and their mother's repeated denial of her daughter’s visit through an unsuspecting Nurse Jackson.
Gentle Boy (20:00) Dir. Caleb Grandoit
A young African American tries to navigate through life ~ and come to terms with a painful upbringing ~ through his photography.
First Last Kiss (13:28) Dir. Nathan Dice
Two lovers go out to a restaurant on a first date. Years later, the two meet back up at the same restaurant to hash out their ended relationship.
The Graveyard Medium (20:00) Dir. Maria Filippone
A widow who visits her husband's grave daily, develops the ability to communicate with others who have passed over, and consoling their loved ones. This brings her some fulfillment, but something is still missing.
NJ Shorts
1:30pm-3:00pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
Pretend (4:00) Dir. Doug Bollinger
Pretend is a music video about a couple navigating their rocky relationship. Is it over?
Why We’re Single (3:51) Dir. Jett Miller
Five different archetypes of a woman's personality argue about going on a date tonight.
Make My Own Fun (5:19) Dir. Kris Khunachak
A prince, living in a gilded cage, escaped to find out what it meant to be real.
How Far Are We Goin’ (5:35) Dir. Javonte Ginn
Two gangsters embark on what seems to be their last ride together.
Good Session (7:41) Dir. Larry Rosen
Jeff has his first therapy session. Unfortunately, the doctor may have more issues than he does.
Sara (20:43) Dir. Jake Wichansky, Holden Zuschlag
A young dance instructor must deal with a group of obnoxious teenagers bent on disrupting her class.
A Box of Chocolates (21:52) Dir. Cris Thorne
Ron has the opportunity to land a role on the next big streaming series! He just has to nail the audition. To get into character, Ron makes a reckless decision and loses a piece of himself he never thought he'd lose...
Beer Goggles (12:44) Dir. John M. Kerner
Best friends stumble upon the dangers of drinking and hooking up at a bar.
3:30pm-5:15pm Upstairs, Theatre 2
Across (14:59) Dir. Laura Sweeney
Across is a Historical Drama set in 1949 New York. Three young American World War II widows take a day trip to celebrate the younger sister's bittersweet engagement, when a corrosive and dangerous secret from the past reemerges.
Overdue (14:59) Dir. Melissa Skirboll
A romantic dramedy. Maureen and Jason are each having a very bad night. Their chance encounter gives both a glimmer of hope as they discover a shared past and a connection that brings light to the darkness in their lives.
House of La Reine (13:08) Dir. Lisa Marie Tedesco
On the eve of the grand opening of her inclusive bohemian bar and performance space, Celia struggles with insecurities about living up to the legacy of her relative who once reigned the stages of Paris.
Star Crossed (15:12) Dir. Pat Bradley
While mourning the loss of her family, a woman battling her inner demons wins the Mega Millions.
Spin (16:31) Dir. Lisa Marie Tedesco
When the curtain descends on their final performance of Romeo and Juliet in drama club, high school seniors Abigail and Sky bid a fair adieu to the stage they loved while letting their most deepest desires for one another surface at the cast party.
August in the City (15:52) Dir. Christie Conochalla
Two young women find themselves completely drawn to each other, but one fears the repercussions of society in 1978 Brooklyn.
Comedy
3:45pm-5:35pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
Benny Winner (2:14) Dir. Paul Pallotta
Benny Winner grew up with a single dream. To one day host his own trashy talk show
Pizzazz and Puzzy (5:05) Dir. Emma Hillebrecht
A young woman leaves a house party early and gets a lesson in self-confidence from a magical talking vagina.
Armed With a Dildo (4:55) Dir. Karuna Tanahashi
When Dani’s boyfriend Leslie breaks up with her, a mass shooter starts attacking the motel they were going to have a romantic night at and suddenly the breakup becomes the least of her problems.
Hilltop Hike (2:49) Dir. Robert Cunniff
Bob goes for a hike on the Hilltop and sees something he didn't expect.
Who Killed the Coach?! (5:30) Dir. Laura Sweeney
A suburban woman finds a dead body in the trunk of her car and must prioritize telling the authorities with her upcoming vacation.
The Struggle (5:00) Dir. Keith Armonaitis
Adulting is hard. Morning is harder.
Roll Check (8:33) Dir. Joey Mosca
An RPG player discovers that his dice has the ability to dictate the events of his life-from great things happening (a 20!) to real bad things happening (critical fail!) in this short comedy.
The Pinch Hitter (8:54) Dir. Jim Harkins
A young couple wants to have a baby, but the husband has a low sperm count. They ask his idiot brother to be the sperm donor.
Higher Grounds (16:59) Dir. Joe Kramer
On the fateful day intelligent life arrives to destroy Earth, one slacker alien gets sidetracked when he’s smitten with a bitter barista. Suddenly, our survival depends on whether this space-schmuck can get her number, before his plucky partner blows us sky high.
Pearly Gates (14:51) Dir. Loring Murtha
Patricia bites off more than she and Todd can chew when she agrees to let Rebecca’s aunt say with them for what turns into an open-ended visit.
The Undesirables (22:30) Dir. Joseph Pepitone
MICHAEL CHEEVERS is a slacker who has spent the last ten years of his life working in a mailroom. He has no drive, ambition or potential. After a night of drinking, he accidentally kills himself in a bizarre sexual experiment gone wrong. Michael finds himself in Purgatory and is “greeted” by SHANNI SMITH, a sassy secretary with a high opinion of herself and a low tolerance for everyone else and MARTHA MAGDALENE, a no-nonsense Human Resources manager. After they give Michael a very unwelcoming welcome, he meets with the recently demoted ST. PETER and is told that despite being a decent guy, his wasted potential and laziness is the reason he has been sentenced to Purgatory.
5:45pm-7:15pm Upstairs, Theatre 2
Ballet…ballet (4:27) Dir. Kostiantyn Mishchenko
The ballet is a purely female thing. It is a woman, a garden of beautiful flowers, and man is the gardener.
Grace & Chloe (14:52) Dir. Erika Lynn Jolie
The longtime relationship of college sweethearts Grace and Chloe unravels over the course of a night out.
I Had a Great Time Last Night (9:29) Dir. Will Martinko
Two down-on-their-luck stoners execute a bank heist when one realizes he went on a date with the teller the night before.
Canned (29:58) Dir. Steve Melone
Sherman Kinsley is a "Laugh Coordinator," the conductor for the last group of canned laughter artists in show business. The band of overlooked misfits provide the laugh track for unkillable sitcom, "Love Me Please" -- At least until the show's producer decides to fire them. Sherman rallies his team to make a last-ditch effort to keep their jobs. But will they triumph? Or will they have to embrace a new life, after the laughter?
In a Time of Jewels (39:14) Dir. Robert Asencio
With the help of a friend, Adam searches through his subconscious hoping to free himself from a traumatic event that has left him mentally imprisoned for months.
6:00pm-7:45pm Downstairs, Theatre 1
Mercy Mercy Me (4:43) Dir. Mark Anthony Cabaroy
Two young girls stumble upon a portal to the afterlife and spirit trapped inside of it.
To Be Honest (5:35) Dir. John Robert Hammerer
Two exes attempt to reconnect, unaware they each have something to hide.
One Last Time (5:00) Dir. Debra Markowitz
A woman must decide to end it with her former husband or risk ruining her current marriage.
The Better Man (6:08) Dir. Debra Markowitz
At a parole board hearing, James Carter asks for a freedom he is not certain that he deserves.
I Married Nora (12:08) Dir. Mark Anthony Cabaroy
In order to inherit her family's fortune, Nora has to be married and only has a few days to find a husband.
Don’t Eat Dead Fish (8:15) Dir. Adam Seccafico
A fisherman is haunted by a dead fish.
The Prof (22:25) Dir. Debra Markowitz
Famous indie film director, Jack Gallucci, falls from favor. His chance meeting with Marigold McCormack forces him to face the mess he’s made of his career and decide if he has it in him to try again.
Last Girls’ Trip (36:00) Dir. Dusty Noval
Three life-long middle-aged girlfriends set off on the last of their many girls’ trips, to find that a huge ask is about to change their lives and challenge their bond.
8:15pm Awards show
