The American Film Institute (AFI) hosted a sold-out screening of films from the AFI DWW+ Class of 2025 on March 5 at the Directors Guild of America (DGA) Theater in Los Angeles. The showcase celebrated the work of eight emerging directors: Julia Bales, Jahmil Eady, MG Evangelista, Marissa High, Jasmine J. Johnson, Natasha Mynhier, Karina Lomelin Ripper, and Ezra Rose.
Founded in 1974, AFI DWW+ is a tuition-free, year-long directing program designed to support up-and-coming narrative filmmakers. The program provides hands-on guidance from industry experts through the full production cycle of a short film, preparing directors to shape the future of storytelling.
Honoring the Next Generation of Visionary Filmmakers
AFI Conservatory Dean Susan Ruskin opened the event, recognizing the newest graduates as part of a prestigious legacy spanning more than 50 years. She emphasized the program’s “signature superpower”—fostering artists who push cultural boundaries and redefine visual storytelling.
Ruskin then introduced AFI DWW+ Alum and Guest Artistic Director Hanelle M. Culpepper (Star Wars: The Acolyte, Star Trek: Picard, Westworld), who mentored this year’s directors and curated the artistic curriculum. Applauding their passion, talent, and collaborative spirit, Culpepper noted, “Their work will have a social impact by challenging us, expanding our thinking, and entertaining us.”
Lucia Aniello Inspires with Keynote Address
Emmy Award-winning writer, director, and producer Lucia Aniello (Hacks, Broad City, Rough Night) delivered an insightful and humorous keynote, urging the directors to embrace life’s unexpected moments for creative inspiration. “Be disciplined – not with your output, but with your life experiences and how present you are with them… And write everything down,” she advised.
Aniello is currently writing, directing, and executive producing the fourth season of Hacks, the acclaimed Max Original comedy starring Jean Smart, which she co-created with Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky.
A Legacy of Storytelling Excellence
Following the keynote, an audience of filmmakers, actors, producers, agents, managers, and industry executives screened the films produced during the program.
As one of the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious film and television directing workshops, AFI DWW+ has trained hundreds of filmmakers who have shaped the cultural landscape. Esteemed alumni include Maya Angelou, Cicely Tyson, Lesli Linka Glatter, Siân Heder, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Gandja Monteiro, and Dime Davis, among others.
AFI DWW+ is part of the AFI Conservatory’s Department of Innovative Programs, which also includes the AFI Cinematography Intensive Workshop. These programs cultivate cutting-edge storytelling skills, expand professional networks, and propel diverse filmmakers toward career success.
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