
Tonight our favorite film festival kicks off once again. AFI has unveiled the complete lineup for AFI FEST 2024, presented by Canva, featuring 158 films set to screen in Los Angeles.
The festival includes highly anticipated titles such as September 5 by Tim Fehlbaum, All We Imagine As Light by Payal Kapadia, and The Luckiest Man in America by Samir Oliveros, as well as Zurawski v Texas, executive produced by Hillary and Chelsea Clinton, and Oh, Canada by Paul Schrader. Passes are now available for purchase at FEST.AFI.com.
This year’s festival offers diverse films, including 6 Red Carpet Premieres, 12 Special Screenings, 13 Luminaries selections, 15 Discovery films, 12 World Cinema selections, 14 Documentaries, and more. Of the official selections, 48% are directed by women and non-binary filmmakers, and 26% are directed by BIPOC filmmakers.
The lineup includes 4 World Premieres, 6 North American Premieres, and 7 U.S. Premieres, representing 44 countries. Notable films in the lineup include DAHOMEY (Senegal), Grand Tour (Portugal), I’m Still Here (Brazil), and Vermiglio (Italy), among others.
Festival Director Todd Hitchcock said, “We are proud to bring the best in film from around the world to the city of Los Angeles. It’s a celebration of storytelling in all its forms, where diverse voices and unique perspectives promise to inspire audiences of all ages.”
The festival opens with the World Premiere of Music by John Williams and closes with Clint Eastwood’s Juror #2.
Other Red Carpet Premieres include Heretic starring Hugh Grant and the World Premiere of Robert Zemeckis’ Here as the Centerpiece Screening. AFI will also honor Zemeckis with a Directors Spotlight event featuring a conversation with Tom Hanks, which will be free to the public with advance reservations.
Below is the full lineup:
Red Carpet Premieres
Here
Robert Zemeckis reunites with Tom Hanks and Robin Wright in Here, a tale of love, loss, and life, co-written with Eric Roth. The film also stars Paul Bettany and Kelly Reilly. DIR Robert Zemeckis. USA.
Heretic
Hugh Grant stars in Heretic, a thrilling horror where two missionaries encounter the diabolical Mr. Reed, played by Grant, in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse. DIR Scott Beck, Bryan Woods. USA.
Juror #2
Clint Eastwood’s latest film follows a juror who faces a moral dilemma during a murder trial. The star-studded cast includes Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, and J.K. Simmons. DIR Clint Eastwood. USA.
Maria
Academy Award® winner Angelina Jolie portrays renowned opera singer Maria Callas in this portrayal of her final days in Paris. DIR Pablo Larraín. Italy, Germany, USA.
Music by John Williams
A deep dive into the legendary Oscar®-winning composer John Williams, exploring his impact on popular culture. DIR Laurent Bouzereau. USA.
Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
Wallace and Gromit return in a new adventure where a “smart gnome” invention goes awry, leading to chaos. DIR Merlin Crossingham, Nick Park. UK.
Special Screenings
Bird
Andrea Arnold, an AFI alum from the class of 1991, returns with a mesmerizing social-realist drama that veers into the surreal. The film features standout performances from Barry Keoghan, Franz Rogowski, and rising star Nykiya Adams. Dir. Andrea Arnold. UK, France, USA, Germany.
Devo
Chris Smith’s documentary explores the eccentric journey of the legendary new wave band Devo, offering a treat for longtime fans and introducing the band’s unique history to a new generation. Dir. Chris Smith. UK, USA.
The Fire Inside
Renowned cinematographer Rachel Morrison makes her directorial debut with this gripping drama following the meteoric rise of boxer Claressa Shields, from Michigan to the 2012 London Olympics. Dir. Rachel Morrison. USA.
I’m Still Here
Walter Salles’ first feature in over a decade is set in 1970s Brazil during a tightening military dictatorship. Based on true events, the film stars Fernanda Torres in a gripping story of resistance. Dir. Walter Salles. Brazil, France.
The Luckiest Man in America
This film tells the incredible story of an unemployed ice cream truck driver who, in 1984, broke the record for the longest winning streak on the gameshow Press Your Luck. Dir. Samir Oliveros. USA.
Nightbitch
Marielle Heller’s adaptation of Rachel Yoder’s bestselling novel is a darkly funny and perceptive take on motherhood, featuring a standout performance from Amy Adams. Dir. Marielle Heller. USA.
The Order
This historical thriller, directed by Justin Kurzel, follows an FBI agent investigating a series of bank robberies across the Pacific Northwest, carried out by a white supremacist group. Dir. Justin Kurzel. USA, UK, Canada.
A Real Pain
Jesse Eisenberg’s road movie follows two estranged cousins reconnecting on a journey through Poland, retracing their late grandmother’s steps. Dir. Jesse Eisenberg. USA.
The Room Next Door
Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language feature stars Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton in a poignant and visually stunning tale of mortality, winner of the Golden Lion at Venice. Dir. Pedro Almodóvar. Spain.
September 5
Set during the 1972 Munich Olympics, this intense drama follows ABC Sports broadcaster Roone Arledge as he transitions from covering sports to a breaking hostage crisis. Dir. Tim Fehlbaum. Germany.
The Summer Book
This heartwarming film tells the story of a young girl and her father seeking solace at her grandmother’s house on a remote Finnish island after the loss of her mother. Dir. Charlie McDowell. USA, Finland.
Unstoppable
This inspiring true story follows wrestler Anthony Robles, born without a leg, who defied the odds to become a champion. The star-studded cast includes Jharrel Jerome, Jennifer Lopez, and Don Cheadle. Dir. William Goldenberg. USA.
Luminaries

Afternoons of Solitude
Albert Serra delves into the world of bullfighting through the lens of torero Andrés Roca Rey, capturing the raw, ritualistic nature of the sport in this captivating exploration of human versus animal. Dir. Albert Serra. Spain.
Caught by the Tides (Feng Liu Yi Dai)
Jia Zhangke weaves together a beautiful reflection of modern China by revisiting his own filmography and experiences, guided by his wife and frequent collaborator, Zhao Tao. Dir. Jia Zhang-Ke. China.
Grand Tour
Portuguese director Miguel Gomes delivers a mesmerizing travelogue that collides time, place, language, and culture in a film that won him Best Director at Cannes. Dir. Miguel Gomes. Portugal.
Hard Truths
Mike Leigh’s latest drama, starring Marianne Jean-Baptiste, offers a tender yet heart-wrenching look at a middle-class Black family grappling with deep emotional turmoil. Dir. Mike Leigh. UK, Spain.
Harvest
Set in medieval times, this darkly comedic period piece from Athina Rachel Tsangari follows a group of farmers facing the end of their simple way of life. Dir. Athina Rachel Tsangari. UK, USA, Germany, France, Greece.
It’s Not Me (C’est Pas Moi)
Visionary director Leos Carax revisits his own body of work in this playful and experimental interrogation of cinema’s imagery and power. Dir. Leos Carax. France.
Meet the Barbarians
Julie Delpy strikes a balance between humor and drama in this satire about a French village preparing to welcome Ukrainian refugees, only to be surprised by the arrival of a Syrian family. Dir. Julie Delpy. France.
Oh, Canada
Paul Schrader’s latest film, which premiered at Cannes, stars Richard Gere as a political documentarian preparing for his final interview, moderated by his wife, played by Uma Thurman. Dir. Paul Schrader. USA.
Parthenope
Paolo Sorrentino crafts a visually stunning story about a young woman possessed of near supernatural beauty befitting her mythic namesake – who embarks on a sentimental education in her life and academic career in Naples. DIR Paolo Sorrentino. SCR Paolo Sorrentino. CAST Celeste Dalla Porta, Stefania Sandrelli, Gary Oldman, Silvio Orlando, Luisa Ranieri. Italy, France
The Seed of the Sacred Fig
Mohammad Rasoulof’s powerful drama, set in Iran, centers on two daughters rebelling against their conservative father, sparking controversy with its political undertones and depiction of protests. Dir. Mohammad Rasoulof. Iran, France, Germany.
Separated
Errol Morris tackles the Trump administration’s controversial child separation policy in this insightful documentary that looks at its inception, disastrous implementation, and long-lasting effects on families. Dir. Errol Morris. USA, Mexico.
The Shrouds
David Cronenberg explores a futuristic concept where technology allows people to watch the decomposition of their loved ones from within the grave, blending his unique vision with existential themes. Dir. David Cronenberg. Canada, France.
A Traveler’s Needs
Isabelle Huppert shines in Hong Sang-soo’s fish-out-of-water comedy about a French teacher finding her way in Seoul. The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Berlin Film Festival. Dir. Hong Sang-soo. South Korea.
Discovery
Bonjour Tristesse
Cécile’s idyllic summer with her widowed father takes an unexpected turn when an old family friend arrives, shaking up their tranquil lives. Dir. Durga Chew-Bose. Canada.
Color Book
Widower Lucky faces challenges as he navigates life as the sole caregiver for his son, Mason, who has Down syndrome, while trying to make it to his first baseball game. Dir. David Fortune. USA.
Eephus
Set against a crisp New England fall, this film observes the final game between two long-standing local rivals at the soon-to-be demolished Soldiers Field. Dir. Carson Lund. USA.
Familiar Touch
An elderly woman, Ruth, transitions into assisted living while dealing with dementia, her relationships with caregivers, and her son, in this touching debut. Dir. Sarah Friedland. USA.
Gloria!
This feminist romp, set in a deteriorating Catholic music school for girls in the 18th century, follows a group of renegade musicians fighting tradition. Dir. Margherita Vicario. Italy.
Hanami
A poetic coming-of-age story about familial longing, set on the volcanic island of Fogo, Cape Verde, where dreams and reality blend seamlessly. Dir. Denise Fernandes. Switzerland, Portugal, Cape Verde.
The Human Hibernation
With mesmerizing imagery, this debut film explores the interconnectedness of humans, flora, and fauna in a breathtaking visual narrative. Dir. Anna Cornudella. Spain.
The Kingdom (Le Royaume)
This gritty coming-of-age tale, set in Corsica during the violent 1990s, centers on a father-daughter relationship amidst organized crime and political unrest. Dir. Julien Colonna. France.
My Favourite Cake
A 70-year-old widow, Mahin, embarks on a journey of love and freedom, defying the oppressive Iranian regime in this tender film. Dir. Behtash Sanaeeha, Maryam Moghaddam. Iran, France, Sweden, Germany.
Santosh
When her police constable husband is killed, Santosh discovers a little-known policy that may allow her to take on his job, offering her a lifeline. Dir. Sandhya Suri. India, France, UK.
Second Chance
Nia, recovering from an at-home abortion, retreats to her family’s Himalayan vacation home, where she encounters old and new friends, reigniting her spirit. Dir. Subhadra Mahajan. India.
Thank You for Banking with Us!
Two sisters, reunited by a race against time to secure their inheritance under Islamic law, grapple with family secrets in this compelling debut. Dir. Laila Abbas. Palestine, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt.
To a Land Unknown
This gripping debut, set among Palestinian refugees in Greece, presents a visceral and timely narrative, exploring the complexity of displacement. Dir. Mahdi Fleifel. UK, Palestine, France, Greece, Netherlands, Germany, Qatar, Saudi Arabia.
Under the Volcano
A Ukrainian family’s vacation in the Canary Islands takes a sharp turn when war breaks out, turning them from tourists into refugees overnight. Dir. Damian Kocur. Poland.
Viet and Nam
In a coal mine, Nam and Viet find love in this sensual and languid romance that explores the past and present of Vietnam. Dir. Trương Minh Quý. Vietnam.
World Cinema
All We Imagine As Light
Awarded the Grand Prix at Cannes, this feminist tale follows three nurses in Mumbai as they navigate life’s challenges while striving for independence amidst the city’s chaos. Dir. Payal Kapadia. France, India, Netherlands, Luxembourg.
April
In this bold, uncompromising story of womanhood, an OB-GYN doubles as a clandestine abortionist in rural Georgia, grappling with personal and societal tensions. Dir. Déa Kulumbegashvili. Italy, France, Georgia.
Black Dog (Gou Zhen)
A gritty neo-noir that follows an ex-con who tames a wild dog, blending striking cinematography with intense action in a crime-filled narrative. Dir. Guan Hu. China.
Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point
This family drama takes place on Christmas Eve as an Italian American family returns to Long Island, confronting unresolved conflicts and breaking unspoken rules. Dir. Tyler Taormina. USA.
La Cocina
Set behind the scenes of a Times Square restaurant, this tragicomedy explores the pressures of life and work with an all-star cast, blending humor with poignant drama. Dir. Alonso Ruizpalacios. Mexico, USA.
Langue Étrangère
This coming-of-age story follows two pen pals navigating cultural and linguistic boundaries as they embark on a student exchange program between France and Germany. Dir. Claire Burger. France, Germany, Belgium.
Misericordia
A gripping Hitchcockian thriller that explores the intersections of death and desire, filled with twists and haunting visuals. Dir. Alain Guiraudie. France, Spain, Portugal.
On Becoming a Guinea Fowl
After a family tragedy, Shula and the women in her family reconnect with buried memories and strained relationships in this award-winning exploration of grief and reconciliation. Dir. Rungano Nyoni. UK, Zambia, Ireland.
Sujo
A young man’s rebellious decision to join the cartel that murdered his father leads to a harrowing choice between perpetuating violence or breaking free. Dir. Astrid Rondero, Fernanda Valadez. Mexico, USA, France.
Super Happy Forever
This reflective love story looks back on the lives of two best friends as they revisit a fateful vacation in Japan, revealing unspoken feelings and deep bonds. Dir. Kohei Igarashi. Japan, France.
Vermiglio
Set during World War II in the remote alpine village of Vermiglio, family secrets unravel under the weight of a strict patriarch’s rule in this Silver Lion-winning drama. Dir. Maura Delpero. Italy, France, Belgium.
Who by Fire (Comme Le Feu)
Lifelong friends and former creative collaborators find their relationship crumbling in this intense, secluded drama that explores the complexities of partnership and betrayal. Dir. Philippe Lesage. Canada, France.
After Dark
The Balconettes (Les Femmes au Balcon)
In the sweltering heat of Marseille, three best friends turn their balcony into a stage for people-watching in this bold feminist horror-comedy from Noémie Merlant. Dir. Noémie Merlant. France.
De-Evolution is Real: The Restored Films of Devo
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of DEVO, this restoration project showcases a selection of their iconic films, music videos, and audio work, offering a retrospective look at the band’s legendary influence. Dir. Gerald Casale, DEVO. USA.
Sister Midnight
A darkly humorous horror-comedy that shines through the electric performance of Radhika Apte, blending sharp wit, physical comedy, and a stream of wildly creative curses. Dir. Karan Kandhari. UK, India, Sweden.
Universal Language (Une Langue Universelle)
This award-winning film from Matthew Rankin is a quirky tribute to Iranian cinema, set in a bizarre parallel universe where a prized turkey has absconded with a pair of glasses. Dir. Matthew Rankin. Canada.
Documentary
Architecton
Victor Kossakovsky captures humanity’s destructive relationship with nature through stunning imagery of concrete, rocks, and stones, set against a mesmerizing score. Dir. Victor Kossakovsky. Germany, France, USA.
Cheech & Chong’s Last Movie
This documentary chronicles the wild and fascinating journey of iconic stoner comedy duo Cheech & Chong, from their heyday in the ‘70s and ‘80s to their lasting cultural impact. Dir. David Bushell. USA.
Dahomey
Mati Diop’s dreamy documentary examines the complex issues surrounding the repatriation of cultural artifacts, earning the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. Dir. Mati Diop. France, Senegal, Benin.
Gaucho Gaucho
This beautifully shot documentary captures the lives of Argentina’s gauchos, blending black-and-white cinematography with a rich soundtrack of South American folk music. Dir. Michael Dweck, Gregory Kershaw. Argentina, USA.
Group Therapy
Led by Neil Patrick Harris, this documentary brings together comedians such as Mike Birbiglia, Nicole Byer, and Tig Notaro to candidly discuss mental health in the world of comedy. Dir. Neil Berkeley. USA.
Intercepted
Oksana Karpovych presents a raw look at the Ukrainian war through haunting images of villages in ruins, juxtaposed with phone calls intercepted between Russian soldiers and their families. Dir. Oksana Karpovych. Canada, France, Ukraine.
No Other Land
A powerful Palestinian-Israeli documentary collective documents the destruction of the West Bank region of Masafer Yatta and the forced eviction of its Palestinian residents. Dir. Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Yuval Abraham, Rachel Szor. Palestine, Norway.
Pavements
Alex Ross Perry’s documentary on ‘90s indie rock band Pavement mixes footage from their 2022 reunion tour with an imaginative re-telling of their cult-favorite legacy. Dir. Alex Ross Perry. USA.
Reas
This hybrid musical captures former Buenos Aires inmates as they sing, dance, and reconstruct memories of their time in prison, in a unique blend of documentary and performance. Dir. Lola Arias. Argentina, Germany, Switzerland.
Songs From the Hole
This visual album documentary brings to life the songs written by James “JJ‘88” Jacobs while in solitary confinement at California State Prison, blending music with a powerful story of resilience. Dir. Contessa Gayles. USA.
Soundtrack to a Coup D’Etat
Johan Grimonprez’s electrifying documentary delves into Cold War politics, jazz music, and colonial history, featuring the music of icons like Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie. Dir. Johan Grimonprez. Belgium, France, Netherlands.
Teaches of Peaches
A rollicking documentary celebrating the career of Canadian musician Peaches, who has spent over three decades as a cultural disruptor and fearless artist. Dir. Philipp Fussenegger, Judy Landkammer. Germany.
Walk With Me
Heidi Levitt’s deeply personal film follows her husband Charlie Hess’ journey with early onset Alzheimer’s disease, offering a moving portrayal of love, memory, and loss. Dir. Heidi Levitt. USA.
Zurawski v Texas
This documentary captures Amanda Zurawski’s legal fight after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, using her story as a rallying cry for reproductive rights in America. Dir. Maisie Crow, Abbie Perrault. USA.
Short Film Competition
Shorts Program: After Dark
Rat!
A music journalist accuses a pop star of queerbaiting, and the singer’s fans exact revenge at the journalist’s remote cabin. Dir. Neal Suresh Mulani. USA.
The Shadow Wrangler
An audiobook narrator tries to finish recording a Western erotica novel but keeps getting interrupted by strange occurrences. Dir. Grace Rex. USA.
Yummy
After a harsh breakup, Julia, who taste-tests dog food for a living, finds that it doesn’t taste the same anymore. Dir. Martinus Klemet. Estonia.
Dog
Nineteen-year-old Summer takes her blind younger sister Lex to a rave, but things spiral out of control when a grungy boy becomes obsessed with Lex. Dir. Ben Tan. USA.
Recurrence (Qutar)
Cows flee as a planet approaches Earth, leaving the farm’s owner to abandon his crippled son. The cows return to face a nightmarish transformation. Dir. Ali Alizadeh. Iran.
Two People Exchanging Saliva (Deux Personnes Échangeant De La Salive)
In a society where kissing is punishable by death, a compulsive shopper becomes obsessed with a salesgirl. Dir. Alexandre Singh, Natalie Musteata. France.
Shorts Program: Animation 1
Percebes
This film follows the life cycle of the shellfish percebes from its formation in the sea to its final appearance on the plate. Dir. Alexandra Ramires, Laura Gonçalves. France.
Flower Show
Three women in different stages of life confront societal expectations, addressing how women are cultivated like flowers. Dir. Elli Vuorinen. Finland.
Humantis
A creature known as “Humantis” undergoes a surprising physical transformation and struggles to adapt. Dir. Paris Baillie. USA.
Next?
Half-human, half-animal creatures meet at a speed-dating dance, and a lovestruck anteater becomes entangled in an elaborate courtship. Dir. Christel Guibert. France.
And Granny Would Dance
Based on memories shared by Iranian women, this film pays tribute to their resilience and solidarity. Dir. Maryam Mohajer. UK.
Silent Panorama
Two campers trek across a desolate landscape filled with mysterious sounds. Animated on a single sheet of paper. Dir. Nicolas Piret. Belgium.
Sheep Out
An animator sinks into apathy and gradually separates herself from the world in this story of routine and isolation. Dir. Zofia Klamka. Poland.
Gigi
A woman reflects humorously on her gender transition, sharing the story of her journey from a tormented mermaid to the fulfilled woman she is today. Dir. Cynthia Calvi. France.
Shorts Program: Animation 2
Bird Drone
A lonely seagull falls for a human-operated drone, but love is difficult when the object of affection has a limited battery life. Dir. Radheya Jang Jegatheva. Australia.
Marvelous Gift
Humanity has unlocked the secret to eternal life, but the reality of immortality proves far more complex than imagined. Dir. Danna Galeano, German Acuña. Colombia.
A Blue Summer (Un Été Bleu)
Louane finds a peaceful moment at the swimming pool, but her solitude is interrupted by Aïssa. Dir. Juliette Ragot. France.
Budō
In this stop-motion animation, a lonely widow in Tokyo adopts a stray cat that changes her life. Dir. Alexander Toma, Amanda Aagard. Sweden.
Octopus Banana Hotchpotch (Hobotnica Banana Mismas)
Best friends Mila and Mara embark on a journey through life, enriched by their decades-long sisterly bond. Dir. Milanka Fabjancic. Slovenia.
Girls Are Made to Make Love (Les Filles C’est Fait Pour Faire L’Amour)
This sociological investigation into women’s sexuality explores the norms, desires, and paths to liberation in heterosexual relationships. Dir. Jeanne Paturle, Cécile Rousset, Jeanne Drouet. France.
The Creators
In another dimension, the Creators work tirelessly to bring a world from their imagination into reality. Dir. Madeleine Homan. UK.
Butterfly Kiss
Carol panics when her girlfriend Ray proposes, but things get weirder when she wakes up to find Ray transformed into a butterfly. Dir. Zohar Dvir. Germany.
Tennis, Oranges
A robotic vacuum quits its job and finds purpose in a quiet neighborhood where two lonely rabbits are stuck in loops. Dir. Sean Pecknold. USA.
Shorts Program: Documentary 1

Stud Country
This documentary explores the largest weekly queer line dancing event in America and the fight to preserve its historic LA venue. Dir. Alexandra Kern, Lina Abascal. USA.
Take Care (Calantaba)
Jose, a middle-aged Mexican man, dedicates his life to caring for his 90-year-old mother with late-stage Alzheimer’s. Dir. Brenton Oechsle. USA.
Sandcastles
A meditation on human-made structures built on sand, paralleling two cities: Singapore and one in Michigan. Dir. Carin Leong. USA.
A Brave New World
A look at Hong Kong’s socio-cultural landscape in the 2020s, reimagined with an absurd twist. Dir. Arnold Tam. Hong Kong.
You’re Too Sensitive
A filmmaker records his immigrant family’s reunion for the youngest son’s graduation, capturing their quirks and tensions. Dir. Dan Chen. USA.
Shotplayer
A notorious NYC pickpocket revisits the subway scenes of his crimes, dissecting his life’s work through memories. Dir. Sam Shainberg. USA.
Iranian Yellow Pages
Reza places an ad in a London newspaper, discovering a hidden Iranian community in the process. Dir. Anna Snowball. UK.
Shorts Program: Documentary 2
Kowloon!
The Wong family, owners of the biggest Chinese restaurant in the U.S., confronts the future of their beloved family business. Dir. Mona Xia, Erin Ramirez. USA.
Christmas, Every Day
This documentary juxtaposes the lives of rural and online influencers, showcasing consumerism and late-stage capitalism through preteen influencers. Dir. Faye Tsakas. USA.
The Puzzle Palace
A couple retires to their Boca Raton home filled with the world’s largest puzzle collection. Dir. Jenny Schweitzer Bell, Brian Bell. USA.
The Medallion
Ruth reflects on the significance of a medallion, passed down from her mother during a turbulent communist regime. Dir. Ruth Hunduma. UK.
Black Hercules
The life and legacy of street bodybuilder Craig Monson is explored, delving into the complexities of Black LA. Dir. Rodney Lucas. USA.
Land of Lost Toys
Detroit residents unite to combat the city’s vast stray dog epidemic in this heartwarming documentary. Dir. Nicholas Stachurski. USA.
Shorts Program: Family Friendly
The Constructor
Seven-year-old Elizabeth, a Lego constructor, struggles with imagination blur as her little sister disrupts her rigid thinking. Dir. Scott Morris. USA.
Meet Mr. Meat
Mr. Meat, a 150 lb. pig, lives in Los Angeles with his adoptive family, defying the odds in a city of millions. Dir. David Walsh Heinz. USA.
Magic Candies
After eating magical candies, Dong-Dong gains the ability to hear voices, opening his world to new possibilities. Dir. Daisuke Nishio. Japan.
Dragfox
Sam embarks on a magical journey with a mysterious fox, discovering their shared search for identity. Dir. Lisa Ott. UK.
Maybe Elephants
Three rebellious daughters, a father struggling with potatoes, and possibly some elephants set the scene for chaos in Nairobi. Dir. Torill Kove. Canada.
A Short Film About Kids
Four kids from a refugee camp in Bethlehem set out to visit the sea for the first time in their lives. Dir. Ibrahim Handal. Palestine.
Shorts Program: Live Action 1
The Distance Between Us (Qu’importe La Distance)
Yalla leaves her night shift without permission, carrying only a bag of clothes, as she heads towards an uncertain future with her son. Dir. Léo Fontaine. France.
Marion
The only female bull-jumper in France, Marion prepares for her performance in a packed arena. Dir. Joe Weiland, Finn Constantine. UK.
Clodagh
A lonely priest’s housekeeper encounters a young girl in Ireland, changing her isolated life. Dir. Portia A. Buckley. Ireland.
Ripe!
When a crush turns complicated, a girl accidentally breaks her crush’s arm. Dir. Tusk. USA.
Sheep and Wolves (Ovejas y Lobos)
Set during the Peruvian armed conflict, a mother searches for her missing son across a dangerous landscape. Dir. Alex Fischman Cárdenas. Peru.
My Mother Is a Cow
In a world of burning wetlands, Mia desperately seeks her mother’s touch, but love arrives in an unexpected form. Dir. Moara Passoni. Brazil.
SHORTS PROGRAM: LIVE ACTION 2
Mr. Floof
Armed with her stuffed bunny, Mr. Floof, young Elsie sets out on a mission to get rid of her mother’s new boyfriend once and for all, using a special “candy” from her father. Dir. Claire Taback Sliney. USA.
Favours
On a crowded train platform, Sonja tries to calm a crying baby. But it’s not her child—the mother left the baby with Sonja and has disappeared. Dir. Agnes Skonare. Sweden.
Muna
Teenager Muna, of British-Somali descent, is eager to escape her routine by going on a school trip. But when tragedy strikes, she’s forced to confront grief for someone she barely knew. Dir. Warda Mohamed. UK.
Duck
In a single day, this emotional story follows an immigrant father’s hard work and the delicate balance of starting a new life in a foreign country. Dir. Paola Contreras. Canada.
Hush, My Dear (拥抱)
During a divorce and custody battle, Xu Rui sees her son bullied at a school event. Her impulsive reaction has far-reaching consequences. Dir. Xiaoman Yang. China.
One Day This Kid
Hamed, a first-generation Afghan-Canadian, grapples with silent struggles and tension as he faces an undefined future with his father. Inspired by David Wojnarowicz’s renowned text. Dir. Alexander Farah. Canada.
AFI Conservatory Showcase
A selection of short films from recent graduates of the prestigious AFI Conservatory, showcasing innovative storytelling and fresh perspectives.
Conservatory Showcase 1
Behold a Lady
A studious tomboy struggles with heartbreak and academics after her boyfriend dumps her just before her Latin Quiz Bowl tryout. To win him back, she undergoes a transformation, juggling her emotions and studies. Dir. Britt Williams, Scr. Britt Williams, Producer Austin Chen, Chris Crema, DP Jenise Whitehead, Editor Yichen Shen, PD Ekaterina Moysov. USA.
Lola
Thirteen-year-old science prodigy Lola is determined to cure her grandmother’s dementia. She invents a machine that lets her journey into her grandmother’s mind to preserve a cherished memory. Dir. Grace Hanna, Scr. Duke Yang, Grace Hanna, Producer Uloaku Anyiam-Osigwe, DP Sarah Megyesy, Editor Jenna Schaelling, PD Jisoo Jeong. USA.
Re-Entry
Maya, a trans NASA engineer, lost a satellite she launched in 1988. Years later, she finds the satellite, stirring memories of her past and forcing her to confront her journey. Dir. Ariel Mahler, Scr. Kunal Sengupta, Ariel Mahler, Nicky Schmid, Producer Ilayda Cetinkaya, DP Maryn McGaw, Editor Victoria Villig, PD Sarah Dawn Hamlin. USA.
When the Forest Burns
An obsessive biologist takes a rare flower from the wild and plants it in her home. As the boundaries between plant and human blur, she questions her connection with the living world. Dir. Jamie Fehrnstrom, Scr. Peter McCollough, Producer Siyuan Che, DP Peter McCollough, Editor Ji Ye Won, PD Emily Li. USA.
Love Cycle
A Chicano punk rock teen embarks on a daring ride across Los Angeles to prove his love. Along the way, he learns that love can be more terrifying than the dangers of the road. Dir. Sarah Hanks, Scr. Ari B Lopez, Producer Raven Robinson, DP Shi-Hyoung Jeon, Editor Dzi-Yang Abraham Chen, PD Diego Freels-Gudiel. USA.
Bajo La Tierra
A pottery maker, overwhelmed by grief after her mother’s death, becomes consumed by her work. But as her home mysteriously fills with dirt, she is forced to confront her loss in an unexpected way. Dir. Pablo Guillen, Scr. Pablo Guillen, Prod. Daniel Radzinsky, Mon Castro, DP Peter McCollough, Editor Alejandra Armijo, Prod. Designer Andres Domit Del Valle. USA
CONSERVATORY SHOWCASE 2
Shangri-La
Joe is thrilled to learn that his high school crush has moved into the same nursing home, and he enlists his best friend Alma for help. Little does Joe know, Alma has her own crush to deal with. Dir. Rhys Raiskin, Scr. Rhys Raiskin, Hannah Rice, Prod. Jeffrey Ramos, DP Kevin Shanmugam, Editor Manny Rothman, Prod. Designer Skye Li. USA
A Light That Doesn’t Dim
Sister Jones must choose between returning home and facing family disappointment or continuing her Mormon mission in Mexico, all while grappling with the intense pressures of family and culture. Dir. Colby Barrios, Scr. Colby Barrios, Prod. Sylvia Simiao Sun, DP Quinn Thomashow, Editor Sydney Fix, Prod. Designer Reena Kim. USA
Washed Up
Expecting father Mike is ready to leave his criminal past behind, but his best friend Aaron convinces him to take on one final job. Dir. Thomas Bayne, Scr. Thomas Bayne, Connor Savage, Prod. Rebecca Lafon, DP Leo Behrens, Editor Zekuan Wang, Prod. Designer Rachel Miu. USA
Do Us Part
Tyler’s battle with his eating disorder worsens when Patrick, the first guy he’s met in treatment, pushes him to seek approval in harmful ways. Dir. Ryan Beene, Scr. Ryan Beene, Prod. Mekdese Haile, DP Donijah Collier, Editor Ivan Alvaro, Prod. Designer Patricia Peter. USA
Dead Girl
Dani, after dying unexpectedly, returns from the grave on Halloween night in a desperate attempt to win back her fiancée. Dir. Kenz Benmosbah, Scr. Jose Lopez, Prod. Hyun Woo Shawn Lee, DP Eli Cooper, Editor Travis Maxwell, Prod. Designer Riya Vaidya. USA
FCBK
Tati, a medical assistant at an abortion clinic, is tasked with training a naive new hire, Kucera. As tensions rise between them, Tati must convince her to stay until the end of the day. Dir. Kanani Koster, Scr. Shuchi Dwivedi, Prod. Yasuko Yui, DP Jordan Biagomala, Editor Lauren Skelton, Prod. Designer Arushi Mathur. USA
CONSERVATORY SHOWCASE 3
Jamila
On the morning of a wedding, a Palestinian American teenager reluctantly goes with her aunts to a salon. There, she confronts her own assumptions about culture and femininity as she navigates her vibrant, opinionated family. Dir. Julia Freij, Scr. Julia Freij, Meg Dudley, Prod. Peri Michael, DP Pascale Williams, Editor Ivanka Lawrence, Prod. Designer Camila Rodriguez. USA
The Last Butterfly
Novelist Xiaodie returns to her childhood home, where her sister is dying. To comfort her niece Lei, Xiaodie shares stories of the Hmong deity “Mother Butterfly,” intertwining memories of her own loss with their current grief. Dir. Sizhuo Suzy Li, Scr. Seamus Bearhart, Sizhuo Suzy Li, Prod. Zhuoran Rita Xiao, DP Daniel Miramontes, Editor Abraham Chen, Prod. Designer Yingjie Jin. USA
The Only Son
When John receives a call that his son is suspected of using drugs at school, he faces a difficult choice: uphold his values or protect his son’s future. Dir. Piotr Matyja, Scr. Piotr Matyja, Prod. Zofia Sablinska, DP Sika Stanton, Editor Xin Sui, Prod. Designer Jose Herrera. USA
Little Bird
Linh, a Vietnamese woman working as an eviction officer, is tasked with evicting Vietnamese refugees. Caught between her job and her heritage, she must decide whether to go through with the eviction or stand in solidarity. Dir. Oanh-Nhi Nguyen, Scr. Oanh-Nhi Nguyen, Ysabeaux Ng, Prod. Eva Zheng, DP Timothy Shin, Editor Adhyaksh Amarnath, Prod. Designer Bala Kumar. USA
Francis
After the death of their father, the youngest of three siblings fights to stop her older siblings from selling the family’s legacy—a once-popular, now-struggling movie theater. Dir. Kim Caicedo, Scr. Kim Caicedo, Raquel Trujillo, Prod. Kerisa Lin, DP Jessica Arzate, Editor Xueer Cai, Prod. Designer Camila Pons Del Toro. USA
In Foreign
In 1962 California, a pregnant Jamaican psychic finds herself committed to a psychiatric ward by her husband. While her ability to see the future can’t save her, it may be the past that holds the key to her escape. Dir. Didi Beck, Scr. Didi Beck, Prod. Deonta Moss, DP Allysa Lisbon, Editor Sophie Becker, Prod. Designer Mikaela Mosley. USA
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