Friday

FRIDAY: 10:45 AM - 11:45 PM

From Hurdles to Triumphs

From daydreaming about mountains, to feeling at home in the water, to finding your safe space through running or youth football, this block of short films shows the power of physical activity in finding one’s purpose. Three of the four films are by Indiana filmmakers about Hoosiers.

FRIDAY: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

Tough Topics: Family Edition

Sometimes family helps us through the tough times, and sometimes they create the tough times. This block of seven short films explores individuals navigating some difficult family relationships. A father and son deal with a recent diagnosis amidst family tension, a woman grapples with her inheritance, an Iranian woman comes to terms with being a caregiver, and more.

FRIDAY: 1:45 PM - 2:45 PM

Brought to you by: Quarantine

COVID — how sick are you of that word? These films explore what many of us have experienced over the last year +. Sometimes the pandemic makes you go stir crazy, and sometimes it helps you discover different sides of yourself, nine sides, perhaps. In the end, we must all be thankful for strong internet connections. And pizza delivery.

FRIDAY: 3:00 PM - 4:45 PM

Let’s Talk Menstruation

Periods. Menstruation. Vagina. Uterus. Tampons. Pads. Menstrual cup. None of these is a dirty word. Isn’t it time we ended the stigma surrounding menstruation? The Wound explores a young girl menstruating for the first time after an earthquake, while Bleeding Free follows Scottish students spreading awareness about period poverty. Panel discussion to follow.

FRIDAY: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Move, Listen and Sing!

Sometimes you just need to get lost in the music and dance! There’s plenty of talent in this block of eight amazing shorts. And so much of it highlights local artists like The Legendary Trainhoppers, Fort Wayne Dance Collective, Rosaline and the Way, Silbo Gomero, and a few new artists to add to your playlist. Check out this irresistible mix of music videos and introspective pieces.

FRIDAY: 6:00 PM - 9:45 PM

Opening Night Reception, Awards Ceremony & Opening Night Film

Opening Night Reception

Come hobnob with your fellow cinephiles at the Embassy Theatre before the Opening Night film. It’s your chance to meet the filmmakers, pose for selfies, and nibble on some yummy appetizers. Oh, and don’t forget the cash bar. Then join us for the awards ceremony in theatre before our feature film.

Feature Film: Zola

"Y’all wanna hear a story about why me & this bitch here fell out? It’s kind of long but full of suspense.”

Zola, a Detroit waitress, strikes up a new friendship with a customer, Stefani, who seduces her to join a weekend of dancing and partying in Florida. What at first seems like a glamorous trip full of “hoeism” rapidly transforms into a 48-hour journey involving a nameless pimp, an idiot boyfriend, some Tampa gangsters and other unexpected adventures in this wild, see-it-to-believe-it tale.

FRIDAY: 10:00 PM - 11:45 PM

Live Passionately, Be Weird, Express Your Beautiful Self

Everyone’s journey to love themselves and realize their own true beauty is unique — just as these four shorts are unique in their approach to storytelling. Enjoy the journey each of these films takes you on in this captivating block. And be sure to stay for the live burlesque show featuring the DisDress Dolls!

A heartfelt thank you to all of our partners. We couldn’t do it without your support!