NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) will host its February Monthly Film Festival, alongside its annual InFocus: Black Cinema program. The event will spotlight Black stories and emerging Black talent both in front of and behind the camera, featuring two dedicated shorts programs and selections from NFMLA’s ongoing monthly festival.
Festival Highlights
The festival begins with “February Shorts,” a diverse collection of films spanning genres like dark comedy, horror, drama, and musical celebration. These films explore themes of intrigue, danger, performance, cultural identity, and community support.
The afternoon will feature “InFocus: Black Cinema Shorts I,” the first of two programs dedicated to Black storytelling. This program showcases narratives of perseverance, authenticity, and lifelong achievement, alongside intimate portrayals of childhood experiences, introspection, and grief. Notably, the program will open with films produced by Black Girls Film Camp, an initiative that supports ten high school students each year in bringing their short film ideas to life.
The evening concludes with “InFocus: Black Cinema Shorts II,” presenting stories centered on themes of joy and confrontation. Characters will grapple with fears, spirituality, systemic issues, and personal histories, while also celebrating their passions, relationships, and hopes for the future.
NFMLA welcomes filmmakers from all backgrounds throughout the year, offering opportunities for submission to both general and InFocus programs. The InFocus programs specifically aim to celebrate representation within the filmmaking community.
The event is supported by grant funding from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The South Park Center, the event venue, is ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible. NFMLA requests that filmmakers provide captioned films, and accommodations for accessibility needs can be requested at least 72 hours in advance by emailing [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the InFocus: Black Cinema program?
The InFocus: Black Cinema program spotlights Black stories and emerging Black talent in front of and behind the camera, showcasing narratives of perseverance, authenticity, and community.
Who is eligible to submit films to NFMLA festivals?
NFMLA welcomes filmmakers of all backgrounds to submit their projects for consideration for upcoming festivals.
How can attendees request accessibility accommodations?
Attendees can request accessibility accommodations by sending a request to [email protected] at least 72 hours prior to the event.
Will NFMLA continue to offer specialized programs like InFocus: Black Cinema in the future?
