Saturday March 8th
Downstairs High School 12:00pm-1:45pm
The Voice (2:00) Dir. Angelina Colavita
A young woman tries to sleep while a demonic voice plays in her head. Is it a dream or real?
My Love Will Find You (8:22) Dir. Sebastian Fuentes
A normal highschool girl named Jessica is being stalked by a boy at her school named BRENDAN who is obsessed with 80's Rom Coms. All JESSICA wants to do is to get away from him and his unhinged acts of love but he will do anything he has to get to her.
Your Beautiful Smile (12:20) Dir. Kenny Hankins
A shy teenage girl is forced to undergo the strict nature of her parent's insecurities by masking her face and dealing with the intense emotional and social harassment of her classmates. With these struggles, she must learn to stand up for herself and build the courage to remove her mask.
What Remains of Us (10:16) Dir. Solomon Fezer (Australia)
A poignant exploration of grief, connection, and missed opportunities. Luke, a young man weighed down by personal struggles and family expectations, revisits a close but strained relationship with Cam, a friend who moved away. Through a series of text messages, flashbacks, and video calls, the film reveals Luke's guilt and regret over losing touch, culminating in the devastating realization of Cam's tragic fate. As Luke grapples with his emotions, he reflects on the impact of their bond and the unspoken struggles both carried, emphasizing the importance of reaching out and cherishing meaningful connections.
Click (14:20) Dir. Jonathan Aspin
A struggling High School student has to come terms with the recent passing of her father and find purpose.
Untitled Artist (8:34) Dir. Lilly Goba
What is art and what does it mean to you? For this young teen, it's everything but the thought of a blank canvas it ALMOST too daunting to start.
South Dakota Jones and the Lost Temple of RR (6:02) Dir. Colton Pence
South Dakota Jones goes on an expedition to discover the secrets of the Lost Temple of RR.
Eyes of the Beholder (8:33) Dir. Aronas Zajan
An ordinary English class is learning about the morbid stories of Edgar Allan Poe, when a national alert breaks out that the president was assassinated however, that news was the tip of the lizards tail, because the president has found out to be an ancient creature scales and all. We follow as this class breaks out into a panic about what this means if they're safe and eventually about who they can trust!
Downstairs High School 2:00-3:00
Mac vs. PC North (1:00) Dir. Julian McGuire
The Suited Man (1:28) Dir. Ryan Hagemann
You're Gonna Win Some Money! (7:58) Dirs. Ethan Castro, Mike Puma
Headlock (3:51) Dir. Jesse Acker
Bitter Betrayal (3:43) Dir. Anthony DeMarco
A teacher and student conspire to make some extra cash under the threat of being exposed.
The Cat Talker 3000 (1:26) Dir. Julian McGuire
Elder's Crossing (2:45) Dirs. Ethan Castro, Mike Puma
Delusion (4:15) Dir. James Ketley
Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they're not after you.
Medley (1:03) Dir. Katherine Pecora
Solitary (2:42) Dirs. Ethan Castro, Mike Puma
Bunker Folley (1:00) Dirs. Katherine Pecora, Atlas Carter
Stalker (1:00) Dirs. Ava Gonzalez, Madelyn Palumbo
Orange You Scared (1:00) Dir. Julian McGuire
A Krisp Killing (1:00) Dirs. Rob Davis, Nick Brier
The Color Blue (2:15) Dir. Gianna Gavric
Experimental Ideas (3:20) Dirs. An Ensemble
Until Daylight Comes (10:40) Dir. Madysen Dougherty
A young man has to deal with the loss of a brother. Will it bring the family together or tear it apart?
Grief (4:00) Dirs. James Ketley, Alex Miller
The five stages of grief are examined.
Midnight Madness (5:00) Dir. Bea Wernerbach
A quick look at Midnight Movie Madness in Monmouth County, NJ.
From The Moon To Her Sun (9:50) Dir. Sharyea Phillips
A young girl fighting to find herself who writes her thoughts down in a journal to combat the inner voices. She finds comfort in her partner but is it enough to keep the voices at bay to live a peaceful life?
Burgers & Butter Chicken (6:30) Dirs. Syrus Gupta, Aria Kutty
A young Indian-American girl finds herself between a clash of two cultures: which one will she choose?
Paranoic (1:10) Dir. Jesse Acker
Upstairs College 2:00pm-3:30pm
The Memorex (4:05) Dir. Jaden Marcos Licor
When Colby, a baseball-loving boy is transported to a bleak and desolate future he has to fight his way to get back to home.
Deserve (2:31) Dir. Jaden Marcos Licor
Mark, an unmotivated and loss 20 year old, refuses to try at something he hates, his job. But when faced with his arrogant and prideful coworker, Steve, he has to finally step up.
Kumares (2:55) Dir. Dean Smith
Kumares is a documentary film peaking into the life of Marceline "Mars" Wen, a tattoo artist and filmmaker from Jersey City, New Jersey.
Good Enough (11:04) Dir. Sabrina Zoe Geffner
A successful pianist goes on a surreal journey to speak with his recently deceased, estranged mother again, to find out if he was ever good enough.
Dawn of Time (8:31) Dir. Manny Martinez
Dawn, a neurotic theater student, finds a watch that allows them to go back in time and re-do past mistakes.
Widow's Walk (21:59) Dir. Blaise Cauvin
When a lonely man struggling to navigate life encounters a ghostly woman in an abandoned house, she begins communicating with him through his dreams, causing the boundaries of reality to blur in haunting and unexpected ways. Consumed by the need to uncover the truth about her past, he teeters on the edge of madness.
A Night's Chemistry (7:45) Dir. Jamal Thomas
A spontaneous night out with great chemistry will definitely lead to a much needed night in.
Son of the Ocean (5:12) Dir. David Hua Liang Yang (China)
The story is about the recollection of a young man whose mother passed away many years ago. He is now living alone near the sea in another region of the country. One day he wakes up and cannot remember his mother's appearance no matter how hard he tries. In the depth of frustration, he returns to the ocean, where he has many happy memories of his mom, which he strives to recall.
The Promotion (7:29) Dir. Helen Zhang
After losing a promotion to a seemingly perfect coworker, Hanah finds herself unraveling during a tense conversation with her Uber driver. As the driver probes for details about a fateful night, Hanah’s reality begins to distort. The encounter reveals a shocking truth.
Student Film Awards Downstairs 3:45pm
Saturday Evening Set Upstairs 5:00pm-7:00pm
Space Invaders (4:41) Dir. Philip Kral
Ruth is a video game programmer in the early '80s, when her boss requests that she modify her masterpiece; she is torn on what she is willing to compromise.
A Rough Start (5:00) Dir. Manny Serrano
How hard could it be? One dark night, a masked assailant with a very large knife stalks and attacks a young couple. Only once they come face to face, both predator and prey discover that the massacre won't proceed as planned. What happens next is a series of unfortunate events.
Consequences (5:56) Dir. Tony Carpinelli
A young man with a twisted sense of justice seeks vengeance for the death of his mother.
A Violent Breakup (8:28) Dir. Tyrell Jason
Paul is a jealous, possessive boyfriend who finally crossed the line that made Isabelle realize she wants out of the relationship - any way possible.
The Monitor (5:13) Dir. Sam Platizky
Melissa and Todd are away from each other for the first time since the birth of their baby. While checking in on Melissa and the baby from their baby monitor he notices that there is someone(or something) else in the house.
It Still Burns (6:12) Dir. Ryan C. Scott
A man seeks comfort in his friend while the boundary between his dreams and reality crumbles around
Coinflip (15:06) Dir. P.J. Shager
Thomas Miller, a charismatic young man with a dark secret, possesses a mysterious coin that helps him commit perfect crimes. When his troubled past with his mother resurfaces, Thomas faces a pivotal confrontation that could expose everything he's worked to hide. As his carefully constructed world begins to unravel, both Thomas and his brother Joe become entangled in a supernatural game where power comes at a devastating price.
So To Speak (29:00) Dir. Celine Parreñas Shimizu
A Filipina American college student uses art to encourage new sexualities for herself and other Asian American women. In class with a powerful professor, Morena revisits her childhood as she experiences the stirrings of desire in coming of age. By making a "house her sexuality," she creates the art of sex, recognizing the traumas and joys of brown girlhood. And realizes sexuality as a site of passion, power, politics, and pleasure. She refutes, refuses and rebuts how her sexuality intertwines with servility and possession by others so as to forge different sexual futures, freedoms and autonomies.
Downstairs High School 12:00pm-1:45pm
The Voice (2:00) Dir. Angelina Colavita
A young woman tries to sleep while a demonic voice plays in her head. Is it a dream or real?
My Love Will Find You (8:22) Dir. Sebastian Fuentes
A normal highschool girl named Jessica is being stalked by a boy at her school named BRENDAN who is obsessed with 80's Rom Coms. All JESSICA wants to do is to get away from him and his unhinged acts of love but he will do anything he has to get to her.
Your Beautiful Smile (12:20) Dir. Kenny Hankins
A shy teenage girl is forced to undergo the strict nature of her parent's insecurities by masking her face and dealing with the intense emotional and social harassment of her classmates. With these struggles, she must learn to stand up for herself and build the courage to remove her mask.
What Remains of Us (10:16) Dir. Solomon Fezer (Australia)
A poignant exploration of grief, connection, and missed opportunities. Luke, a young man weighed down by personal struggles and family expectations, revisits a close but strained relationship with Cam, a friend who moved away. Through a series of text messages, flashbacks, and video calls, the film reveals Luke's guilt and regret over losing touch, culminating in the devastating realization of Cam's tragic fate. As Luke grapples with his emotions, he reflects on the impact of their bond and the unspoken struggles both carried, emphasizing the importance of reaching out and cherishing meaningful connections.
Click (14:20) Dir. Jonathan Aspin
A struggling High School student has to come terms with the recent passing of her father and find purpose.
Untitled Artist (8:34) Dir. Lilly Goba
What is art and what does it mean to you? For this young teen, it's everything but the thought of a blank canvas it ALMOST too daunting to start.
South Dakota Jones and the Lost Temple of RR (6:02) Dir. Colton Pence
South Dakota Jones goes on an expedition to discover the secrets of the Lost Temple of RR.
Eyes of the Beholder (8:33) Dir. Aronas Zajan
An ordinary English class is learning about the morbid stories of Edgar Allan Poe, when a national alert breaks out that the president was assassinated however, that news was the tip of the lizards tail, because the president has found out to be an ancient creature scales and all. We follow as this class breaks out into a panic about what this means if they're safe and eventually about who they can trust!
Downstairs High School 2:00-3:00
Mac vs. PC North (1:00) Dir. Julian McGuire
The Suited Man (1:28) Dir. Ryan Hagemann
You're Gonna Win Some Money! (7:58) Dirs. Ethan Castro, Mike Puma
Headlock (3:51) Dir. Jesse Acker
Bitter Betrayal (3:43) Dir. Anthony DeMarco
A teacher and student conspire to make some extra cash under the threat of being exposed.
The Cat Talker 3000 (1:26) Dir. Julian McGuire
Elder's Crossing (2:45) Dirs. Ethan Castro, Mike Puma
Delusion (4:15) Dir. James Ketley
Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they're not after you.
Medley (1:03) Dir. Katherine Pecora
Solitary (2:42) Dirs. Ethan Castro, Mike Puma
Bunker Folley (1:00) Dirs. Katherine Pecora, Atlas Carter
Stalker (1:00) Dirs. Ava Gonzalez, Madelyn Palumbo
Orange You Scared (1:00) Dir. Julian McGuire
A Krisp Killing (1:00) Dirs. Rob Davis, Nick Brier
The Color Blue (2:15) Dir. Gianna Gavric
Experimental Ideas (3:20) Dirs. An Ensemble
Until Daylight Comes (10:40) Dir. Madysen Dougherty
A young man has to deal with the loss of a brother. Will it bring the family together or tear it apart?
Grief (4:00) Dirs. James Ketley, Alex Miller
The five stages of grief are examined.
Midnight Madness (5:00) Dir. Bea Wernerbach
A quick look at Midnight Movie Madness in Monmouth County, NJ.
From The Moon To Her Sun (9:50) Dir. Sharyea Phillips
A young girl fighting to find herself who writes her thoughts down in a journal to combat the inner voices. She finds comfort in her partner but is it enough to keep the voices at bay to live a peaceful life?
Burgers & Butter Chicken (6:30) Dirs. Syrus Gupta, Aria Kutty
A young Indian-American girl finds herself between a clash of two cultures: which one will she choose?
Paranoic (1:10) Dir. Jesse Acker
Upstairs College 2:00pm-3:30pm
The Memorex (4:05) Dir. Jaden Marcos Licor
When Colby, a baseball-loving boy is transported to a bleak and desolate future he has to fight his way to get back to home.
Deserve (2:31) Dir. Jaden Marcos Licor
Mark, an unmotivated and loss 20 year old, refuses to try at something he hates, his job. But when faced with his arrogant and prideful coworker, Steve, he has to finally step up.
Kumares (2:55) Dir. Dean Smith
Kumares is a documentary film peaking into the life of Marceline "Mars" Wen, a tattoo artist and filmmaker from Jersey City, New Jersey.
Good Enough (11:04) Dir. Sabrina Zoe Geffner
A successful pianist goes on a surreal journey to speak with his recently deceased, estranged mother again, to find out if he was ever good enough.
Dawn of Time (8:31) Dir. Manny Martinez
Dawn, a neurotic theater student, finds a watch that allows them to go back in time and re-do past mistakes.
Widow's Walk (21:59) Dir. Blaise Cauvin
When a lonely man struggling to navigate life encounters a ghostly woman in an abandoned house, she begins communicating with him through his dreams, causing the boundaries of reality to blur in haunting and unexpected ways. Consumed by the need to uncover the truth about her past, he teeters on the edge of madness.
A Night's Chemistry (7:45) Dir. Jamal Thomas
A spontaneous night out with great chemistry will definitely lead to a much needed night in.
Son of the Ocean (5:12) Dir. David Hua Liang Yang (China)
The story is about the recollection of a young man whose mother passed away many years ago. He is now living alone near the sea in another region of the country. One day he wakes up and cannot remember his mother's appearance no matter how hard he tries. In the depth of frustration, he returns to the ocean, where he has many happy memories of his mom, which he strives to recall.
The Promotion (7:29) Dir. Helen Zhang
After losing a promotion to a seemingly perfect coworker, Hanah finds herself unraveling during a tense conversation with her Uber driver. As the driver probes for details about a fateful night, Hanah’s reality begins to distort. The encounter reveals a shocking truth.
Student Film Awards Downstairs 3:45pm
Saturday Evening Set Upstairs 5:00pm-7:00pm
Space Invaders (4:41) Dir. Philip Kral
Ruth is a video game programmer in the early '80s, when her boss requests that she modify her masterpiece; she is torn on what she is willing to compromise.
A Rough Start (5:00) Dir. Manny Serrano
How hard could it be? One dark night, a masked assailant with a very large knife stalks and attacks a young couple. Only once they come face to face, both predator and prey discover that the massacre won't proceed as planned. What happens next is a series of unfortunate events.
Consequences (5:56) Dir. Tony Carpinelli
A young man with a twisted sense of justice seeks vengeance for the death of his mother.
A Violent Breakup (8:28) Dir. Tyrell Jason
Paul is a jealous, possessive boyfriend who finally crossed the line that made Isabelle realize she wants out of the relationship - any way possible.
The Monitor (5:13) Dir. Sam Platizky
Melissa and Todd are away from each other for the first time since the birth of their baby. While checking in on Melissa and the baby from their baby monitor he notices that there is someone(or something) else in the house.
It Still Burns (6:12) Dir. Ryan C. Scott
A man seeks comfort in his friend while the boundary between his dreams and reality crumbles around
Coinflip (15:06) Dir. P.J. Shager
Thomas Miller, a charismatic young man with a dark secret, possesses a mysterious coin that helps him commit perfect crimes. When his troubled past with his mother resurfaces, Thomas faces a pivotal confrontation that could expose everything he's worked to hide. As his carefully constructed world begins to unravel, both Thomas and his brother Joe become entangled in a supernatural game where power comes at a devastating price.
So To Speak (29:00) Dir. Celine Parreñas Shimizu
A Filipina American college student uses art to encourage new sexualities for herself and other Asian American women. In class with a powerful professor, Morena revisits her childhood as she experiences the stirrings of desire in coming of age. By making a "house her sexuality," she creates the art of sex, recognizing the traumas and joys of brown girlhood. And realizes sexuality as a site of passion, power, politics, and pleasure. She refutes, refuses and rebuts how her sexuality intertwines with servility and possession by others so as to forge different sexual futures, freedoms and autonomies.
Sunday March 9th
Upstairs 12:00pm-1:45pm
Skate Fast Turn Left (1:00) Dir. Mary Hawkins
Two friends, Fifi Fleshwound and Little Mary Switchblade, have a quick conversation about their roller derby years...
Created for Things Took A Turn, an animation anthology that challenges artists of marginalized genders to create new animated short stories by twisting familiar narratives.
The Brother-in-Law (6:53) Dir. Elroy Martinez, Jr.
Justin's brother-in-law, Angel, pays him a visit as they meet for the first time. An encounter that's unfortunate.
Gravitation (10:58) Dir. Nolan Stolz
Composer Nolan Stolz performs the 2020 COVID version of his composition Gravitation, an open instrumentation piece for any 5 to 8 performers. Instead of having several musicians unsafely uncomfortably crowd around one another on stage like in the original version, this COVID version was performed by a single musician overdubbing all of the parts. Stolz uses the medium of video to present his composition in a way impossible in live performance. This version includes two electric guitars, two bass guitars, three synthesizers, drum set, found objects/percussion (wood against wood, metal against metal, and wood against metal). Completed in 2021, it was recorded and filmed in Spartanburg, SC and Belle, MO during a summer 2020 artist residency at Osage Arts Community.
Celestial Echoes: Tears of the Stars (10:36) Dir. Elroy Martinez, Jr.
Xain Alonzo is contacted by his friend Konoa Kahele about a bounty from a skeptical planet. Paula Stratus, who once worked with them, is asked to join Xain as his pilot. They'll soon discover the bounty is more than a typical hunt.
Banana Tree (16:46) Dir. Scott Kane
In this magical world, a peculiarly sentient banana plant is threatened by a fast-moving epidemic. Will a solitary farmer enlist the help he needs in time to save the bananas?
Sing Me To Sleep (25:27) Dir. Mario Valdivieso
Follows the story of a young couple by the name of Marc and Julia. Julia has been diagnosed with cancer and she is at the point where her disease has become terminal. Marc decides to take his dying wife home so they can make the most of their last days together.
Downstairs 12:15pm-1:45pm
Berlin (11:17) Dir. Jack Fanburg
A September to Remember (10:20) Dir. Sam Gollestani
A social justice drama inspired by actual events, pulling the curtain back on one of the darkest days in American history. It tells the untold story of the racism and violence that Middle Eastern Americans faced in the immediate aftermath of the attacks on September 11, 2001. On the worst day in modern Ameran history, Ali's anguish is amplified after he falls victim to an appalling hate crime, and once the perpetrator's identity is dramatically revealed to be close to home, Ali is conflicted in his urge for retribution.
Good Buddies (14:45) Dir. Joe P. LaRocca
A man grieving his dead dog decides to get another. Each dog is different. Each dog is the same.
I Love Monroe (21:10) Dir. Steven Liiro
A woman with DID in a mental hospital, believes that she is Marilyn Monroe. She must face her trauma, accept the truth about who she is, and what a boy named Ryan truly means to her.
Always With You (10:42) Dir. Stephanie Rodriguez-Vazquez
Even after a year, Jasmine Morales struggles to stay strong while trying to deal with her father's passing. When her mom, Camila, begins to set up an ofrenda on the Day of the Dead, she goes on a journey to understand her pain while simultaneously understanding the true meaning of an ofrenda.
Some NJ Films Upstairs 2:15pm-4:00pm
Thank You (1:29) Dirs. Chris Michael Veninga, Mithi Sivaprakash
Appreciate Everything You Do
The Mud Hole (3:18) Dir. Margaret Leone
A family man reflects on an important time of his life when he left his gang friends for the summer and visited his Aunt in New Jersey. His Aunt surprises him with a trip to Asbury Park Beach and a hidden historical gem with the powers towards a positive and great future.
Above the Whim (16:57) Dir. Charles Douglas Fyle
Nephew from NJ is noted in his uncle's probate and has to travel to NC where he must complete a couple of tasks before the estate clears..
Mammoth: Chasing the Rainbow: Chapter 8 (10:22) Dir. Matt Check
After weathering a perfect storm, Mammoth awakes to find himself and his fellow captive botanical friends marooned in a new mysterious land.
Must Be Nice (4:55) Dir. Joey Mosca
The Unorthodox Mr. Haywood (54:08) Dirs. Ginny Pados, Maxwell C. Blackriver
Paul Haywood, an escapes from a psychiatric ward, finds refuge in an empty church. Paul discovers the preacher dead of a heart attack and decides to impersonate him. He encounters a long list of characters and finds he is gifted with helping people manage their problems.
Comedy Set Downstairs 2:30pm-4:15pm
Grow Up (5:48) Dir. Joe Thayer
Bobby and Charlie argue at dinner over their daughter Katie's future and career choice.
The Truth Between Us (4:29) Dir. Larry Rosen
A couple use an unconventional method to clear the air about the honesty in their relationship.
Wake UP! (10:33) Dirs. John Vincent Sabia, Christian Attrel Cordes
2 warring wives kneel at the coffin of their husband to pay last respects--who will get the last word?
"The Cafone" Episode # 1 "The Badge" (23:00) Dir. Thomas Bentey
Ne'er-do-well Sal Forte reunites with his inept friend to steal, cheat and rob in an effort to pay off gambling debts and keep enraged criminals at bay. After a brief stint in prison, consummate low-life Sal Forte "AKA THE CAFONE," reaches out to his old pal from the neighborhood, John Falcone for a little help getting back on his feet. John is a married, successful funeral director who has a fondness for Sal because he protected John from the wise guys in their old stomping grounds. Will Sal and John be able to pay off all their debts and keep mob associates at bay?
Career Day (13:35) Dir. John M. Kerner
Three parents are invited to discuss their careers at their child's middle school. Unfortunately, a judge's gag order forces one of them to teach the students a very important life lesson.
Oh Daddio! (8:23) Dir. Joel Kaplan
What do you say about a father who is lovingly referred to as Daddio? Meet Cecile, Margie and Bonnie's dad, a funny, energetic man who is proving age has no limitations. As he sails towards his 100th birthday his accomplishments are impressive and his positivity overflowing. This mini-doc profiles Daddio as seen through the eyes of his adoring daughters who give a humorous entrance into the world of their madcap father. His secrets to longevity are a day full of activity which consists of sewing, socializing, enjoying a daily 90 minute gym workout and dancing every chance he gets! He believes in drinking from the cup of joyfulness and gratitude, mixed in with a small amount of ouzo to keep the laughter going!
Piercing Gaze (10:27) Dir. Alex Walpoe
A blind karate wife must survive the night against an impressionist killer doll posing as her husband. .
The Mansion (17:01) Dir. Ernest Arbucci
The central character, a woman in her mid-70s, becomes the catalyst for the unfolding drama as she seeks to restore a once-majestic mansion to its former grandeur. However, her approach to achieving this goal takes an unexpected and unconventional turn, involving a contractor and a series of intriguing arrangements that blur the lines of morality.
Upstairs Last Set 4:30-6:00
Texas Hold 'Em With The Devil (5:38) Dir. Brian Hession
Card Players in Limbo get their hands dealt by Jesus according to how they lived.
The Greatest Guy You Never Met (formerly Old Stones) (8:52) Dir. Brian Russell
Thirty five years of found footage create a portrait of one man in his own words.
CopyCataclysm (7:29) Dir. Joe Rechtman
Things quickly get out of hand when two women begin to show symptoms of a mysterious disease.
The Concert (7:34) Dir. Elizabeth Bourgeois
Farrah and Lisa hang out in Angie's basement, waiting on her dad to give them a ride to their first big rock concert. Safe in their warm, wood paneled hang-out, they talk about boys and even rehearse their own fledging metal band, The Giant Feminist Electric Mares! But their fun and excitement is cut short. They face what so many women face. And they face it together. A realistic coming of age story that pulls no punches told from the girl's point of view.
The Rooftop (11:20) Dir. David Musolf
On the top of a Building, a Man on a Mission is sidetracked by a beautiful Woman.
Back Story (19:59) Dir. Seth Ruben Jacobson
Two actors' love-hate relationship comes to a head when they suspect the Phantom of the Black Box may be lurking in the shadows.
Downstairs Last Set 4:45pm-6:30pm
Finding the Right One (3:12) Dir. Larry Rosen
Steve and Jill share a fun day. But they are not on the same page about their relationship.
Izzy (14:16) Dirs. Mai Benezra, Harsh Gupta
When her mother's illness leaves her financially strained, a young professional decides to enter the world of stripping, grappling with the complexities of empowerment and self-discovery against societal judgment and personal relationships.
Right to Privacy (12:12) Dir. Julie Herlocker
After a women's health doctor has a charged encounter with a volatile protester, she faces a moral dilemma she could never imagine. We hope this film will open up dialogue and lead to conversations and engagement. This story of two women on opposite sides of the abortion debate is as relevant and important in this political landscape as it will ever be.
Method & Madness (11:00) Dir. Anna Russell
Rachel takes her niece to a conference where she hopes to exact revenge upon the man responsible for her sister's death. But her plans are thwarted when a mysterious woman offers her a different path. Rachel must choose between her madness and a methodical means to an end.
Blood is Thicker (13:50) Dir. Melissa Skirboll
Two sisters living in the same city but completely different worlds reconnect over a meal. A mother suffering dementia pulls them back home but before they can return the trauma of their past must be addressed.
Cascades (13:45) Dir. Brian Russell
A couple walks towards a crossroads on the day of their 30th wedding anniversary. Marcus and Denise have been happily married for 30 years. Well, almost happily married. Can they overcome the one thing that just might tear them apart?
The Woman in The Room (23:26) Dir. Danny Donnelly
The story of a man burdened with his decision to end his mother's life. Is it murder or mercy? A thought-provoking look at end-of-life decisions and how one man deals with the guilt that comes with them. Screenplay based upon the short story "The Woman in the Room" copyright 1978 Stephen King; used by permission, all rights reserved.
AWARDS Pre Show and Setup 6:45pm Downstairs
AWARDS 7:00pm Downstairs
Upstairs 12:00pm-1:45pm
Skate Fast Turn Left (1:00) Dir. Mary Hawkins
Two friends, Fifi Fleshwound and Little Mary Switchblade, have a quick conversation about their roller derby years...
Created for Things Took A Turn, an animation anthology that challenges artists of marginalized genders to create new animated short stories by twisting familiar narratives.
The Brother-in-Law (6:53) Dir. Elroy Martinez, Jr.
Justin's brother-in-law, Angel, pays him a visit as they meet for the first time. An encounter that's unfortunate.
Gravitation (10:58) Dir. Nolan Stolz
Composer Nolan Stolz performs the 2020 COVID version of his composition Gravitation, an open instrumentation piece for any 5 to 8 performers. Instead of having several musicians unsafely uncomfortably crowd around one another on stage like in the original version, this COVID version was performed by a single musician overdubbing all of the parts. Stolz uses the medium of video to present his composition in a way impossible in live performance. This version includes two electric guitars, two bass guitars, three synthesizers, drum set, found objects/percussion (wood against wood, metal against metal, and wood against metal). Completed in 2021, it was recorded and filmed in Spartanburg, SC and Belle, MO during a summer 2020 artist residency at Osage Arts Community.
Celestial Echoes: Tears of the Stars (10:36) Dir. Elroy Martinez, Jr.
Xain Alonzo is contacted by his friend Konoa Kahele about a bounty from a skeptical planet. Paula Stratus, who once worked with them, is asked to join Xain as his pilot. They'll soon discover the bounty is more than a typical hunt.
Banana Tree (16:46) Dir. Scott Kane
In this magical world, a peculiarly sentient banana plant is threatened by a fast-moving epidemic. Will a solitary farmer enlist the help he needs in time to save the bananas?
Sing Me To Sleep (25:27) Dir. Mario Valdivieso
Follows the story of a young couple by the name of Marc and Julia. Julia has been diagnosed with cancer and she is at the point where her disease has become terminal. Marc decides to take his dying wife home so they can make the most of their last days together.
Downstairs 12:15pm-1:45pm
Berlin (11:17) Dir. Jack Fanburg
A September to Remember (10:20) Dir. Sam Gollestani
A social justice drama inspired by actual events, pulling the curtain back on one of the darkest days in American history. It tells the untold story of the racism and violence that Middle Eastern Americans faced in the immediate aftermath of the attacks on September 11, 2001. On the worst day in modern Ameran history, Ali's anguish is amplified after he falls victim to an appalling hate crime, and once the perpetrator's identity is dramatically revealed to be close to home, Ali is conflicted in his urge for retribution.
Good Buddies (14:45) Dir. Joe P. LaRocca
A man grieving his dead dog decides to get another. Each dog is different. Each dog is the same.
I Love Monroe (21:10) Dir. Steven Liiro
A woman with DID in a mental hospital, believes that she is Marilyn Monroe. She must face her trauma, accept the truth about who she is, and what a boy named Ryan truly means to her.
Always With You (10:42) Dir. Stephanie Rodriguez-Vazquez
Even after a year, Jasmine Morales struggles to stay strong while trying to deal with her father's passing. When her mom, Camila, begins to set up an ofrenda on the Day of the Dead, she goes on a journey to understand her pain while simultaneously understanding the true meaning of an ofrenda.
Some NJ Films Upstairs 2:15pm-4:00pm
Thank You (1:29) Dirs. Chris Michael Veninga, Mithi Sivaprakash
Appreciate Everything You Do
The Mud Hole (3:18) Dir. Margaret Leone
A family man reflects on an important time of his life when he left his gang friends for the summer and visited his Aunt in New Jersey. His Aunt surprises him with a trip to Asbury Park Beach and a hidden historical gem with the powers towards a positive and great future.
Above the Whim (16:57) Dir. Charles Douglas Fyle
Nephew from NJ is noted in his uncle's probate and has to travel to NC where he must complete a couple of tasks before the estate clears..
Mammoth: Chasing the Rainbow: Chapter 8 (10:22) Dir. Matt Check
After weathering a perfect storm, Mammoth awakes to find himself and his fellow captive botanical friends marooned in a new mysterious land.
Must Be Nice (4:55) Dir. Joey Mosca
The Unorthodox Mr. Haywood (54:08) Dirs. Ginny Pados, Maxwell C. Blackriver
Paul Haywood, an escapes from a psychiatric ward, finds refuge in an empty church. Paul discovers the preacher dead of a heart attack and decides to impersonate him. He encounters a long list of characters and finds he is gifted with helping people manage their problems.
Comedy Set Downstairs 2:30pm-4:15pm
Grow Up (5:48) Dir. Joe Thayer
Bobby and Charlie argue at dinner over their daughter Katie's future and career choice.
The Truth Between Us (4:29) Dir. Larry Rosen
A couple use an unconventional method to clear the air about the honesty in their relationship.
Wake UP! (10:33) Dirs. John Vincent Sabia, Christian Attrel Cordes
2 warring wives kneel at the coffin of their husband to pay last respects--who will get the last word?
"The Cafone" Episode # 1 "The Badge" (23:00) Dir. Thomas Bentey
Ne'er-do-well Sal Forte reunites with his inept friend to steal, cheat and rob in an effort to pay off gambling debts and keep enraged criminals at bay. After a brief stint in prison, consummate low-life Sal Forte "AKA THE CAFONE," reaches out to his old pal from the neighborhood, John Falcone for a little help getting back on his feet. John is a married, successful funeral director who has a fondness for Sal because he protected John from the wise guys in their old stomping grounds. Will Sal and John be able to pay off all their debts and keep mob associates at bay?
Career Day (13:35) Dir. John M. Kerner
Three parents are invited to discuss their careers at their child's middle school. Unfortunately, a judge's gag order forces one of them to teach the students a very important life lesson.
Oh Daddio! (8:23) Dir. Joel Kaplan
What do you say about a father who is lovingly referred to as Daddio? Meet Cecile, Margie and Bonnie's dad, a funny, energetic man who is proving age has no limitations. As he sails towards his 100th birthday his accomplishments are impressive and his positivity overflowing. This mini-doc profiles Daddio as seen through the eyes of his adoring daughters who give a humorous entrance into the world of their madcap father. His secrets to longevity are a day full of activity which consists of sewing, socializing, enjoying a daily 90 minute gym workout and dancing every chance he gets! He believes in drinking from the cup of joyfulness and gratitude, mixed in with a small amount of ouzo to keep the laughter going!
Piercing Gaze (10:27) Dir. Alex Walpoe
A blind karate wife must survive the night against an impressionist killer doll posing as her husband. .
The Mansion (17:01) Dir. Ernest Arbucci
The central character, a woman in her mid-70s, becomes the catalyst for the unfolding drama as she seeks to restore a once-majestic mansion to its former grandeur. However, her approach to achieving this goal takes an unexpected and unconventional turn, involving a contractor and a series of intriguing arrangements that blur the lines of morality.
Upstairs Last Set 4:30-6:00
Texas Hold 'Em With The Devil (5:38) Dir. Brian Hession
Card Players in Limbo get their hands dealt by Jesus according to how they lived.
The Greatest Guy You Never Met (formerly Old Stones) (8:52) Dir. Brian Russell
Thirty five years of found footage create a portrait of one man in his own words.
CopyCataclysm (7:29) Dir. Joe Rechtman
Things quickly get out of hand when two women begin to show symptoms of a mysterious disease.
The Concert (7:34) Dir. Elizabeth Bourgeois
Farrah and Lisa hang out in Angie's basement, waiting on her dad to give them a ride to their first big rock concert. Safe in their warm, wood paneled hang-out, they talk about boys and even rehearse their own fledging metal band, The Giant Feminist Electric Mares! But their fun and excitement is cut short. They face what so many women face. And they face it together. A realistic coming of age story that pulls no punches told from the girl's point of view.
The Rooftop (11:20) Dir. David Musolf
On the top of a Building, a Man on a Mission is sidetracked by a beautiful Woman.
Back Story (19:59) Dir. Seth Ruben Jacobson
Two actors' love-hate relationship comes to a head when they suspect the Phantom of the Black Box may be lurking in the shadows.
Downstairs Last Set 4:45pm-6:30pm
Finding the Right One (3:12) Dir. Larry Rosen
Steve and Jill share a fun day. But they are not on the same page about their relationship.
Izzy (14:16) Dirs. Mai Benezra, Harsh Gupta
When her mother's illness leaves her financially strained, a young professional decides to enter the world of stripping, grappling with the complexities of empowerment and self-discovery against societal judgment and personal relationships.
Right to Privacy (12:12) Dir. Julie Herlocker
After a women's health doctor has a charged encounter with a volatile protester, she faces a moral dilemma she could never imagine. We hope this film will open up dialogue and lead to conversations and engagement. This story of two women on opposite sides of the abortion debate is as relevant and important in this political landscape as it will ever be.
Method & Madness (11:00) Dir. Anna Russell
Rachel takes her niece to a conference where she hopes to exact revenge upon the man responsible for her sister's death. But her plans are thwarted when a mysterious woman offers her a different path. Rachel must choose between her madness and a methodical means to an end.
Blood is Thicker (13:50) Dir. Melissa Skirboll
Two sisters living in the same city but completely different worlds reconnect over a meal. A mother suffering dementia pulls them back home but before they can return the trauma of their past must be addressed.
Cascades (13:45) Dir. Brian Russell
A couple walks towards a crossroads on the day of their 30th wedding anniversary. Marcus and Denise have been happily married for 30 years. Well, almost happily married. Can they overcome the one thing that just might tear them apart?
The Woman in The Room (23:26) Dir. Danny Donnelly
The story of a man burdened with his decision to end his mother's life. Is it murder or mercy? A thought-provoking look at end-of-life decisions and how one man deals with the guilt that comes with them. Screenplay based upon the short story "The Woman in the Room" copyright 1978 Stephen King; used by permission, all rights reserved.
AWARDS Pre Show and Setup 6:45pm Downstairs
AWARDS 7:00pm Downstairs
