Embedded Files
Welcome to May!
Welcome Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Image by Freepik
May is AAPI Heritage Month (Federal Asian Pacific American Council - Resource Center) and WIFSFBA would like to celebrate by highlighting AAPI women filmmakers!
“The Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC) is pleased to announce the May 2026 Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month theme, ‘Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together.’
This year’s theme highlights the importance of leveraging our collective power, telling our stories, and being bridge builders in our communities. The imagery of the bridge in this year’s artwork inspires us to unite in our common causes. Bridges represent many values that are prevalent in AANHPI communities - innovation, resilience, hard work, connection, and a sense of belonging. FAPAC invites you to join us this May to honor the AANHPI leaders who inspire us to work collaboratively and embolden the next generation to build on their legacies.”
Also, check out the following resources:
For San Francisco AAPI celebration events: Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage
Daly City & greater San Francisco Bay Area AAPI culture celebration events: Over the Fog
Film Events in the Bay Area
San Francisco State University - 66th Annual Film Finals
When: Thursday May 14th, 6:00-9:00 PM Pacific
Where: McKenna theater
Cost: Free
“Celebrate 66 years of student storytelling at San Francisco State University Film Finals featuring bold, diverse films and emerging voices.
For 66 years, Film Finals has been a cornerstone event at the San Francisco State University School of Cinema, celebrating the creative achievements of emerging filmmakers and showcasing the next generation of storytellers.
Each year, Film Finals brings together students, alumni, faculty, and members of the Bay Area film community to celebrate the bold and innovative work created by SFSU filmmakers.”
MORE INFO: SFSU Film Finals
The 29th SF Silent Film Festival
When: May 6-10th, 2026
Where: Castro Theatre
“The San Francisco Silent Film Festival (SFSFF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the presentation and preservation of silent cinema, and the education of the public about silent film as an art form and as a culturally valuable historical record.
Silent-era filmmakers produced masterpieces that can seem breathtakingly modern. In a remarkably short time after the birth of movies, filmmakers developed all the techniques that would make cinema its own art form. The only technique that eluded them was the ability to marry sound to the film print, but these films were never meant to be viewed in silence, and it is often obvious that music was a part of the production as well as the exhibition. The absence of recording on the set, though, meant that the camera was free to move with a grace and elegance that allowed visual storytelling to flourish and made film more than just an adjunct to the stage.
It is through these films that the world first came to love movies and learned how to appreciate them as art. They have influenced every generation of filmmakers and continue to inspire audiences nearly a century after they were made.
The 29th San Francisco Silent Film Festival takes place May 6–10 at our ancestral home—San Francisco’s landmark Castro Theatre. The Castro’s captivating interior was designed by one of San Francisco’s most prominent architects, Timothy Pfleuger. Built in 1922, the movie palace features a lavish yet intimate interior with diverse architectural influences ranging between Spanish, Asian, Italian and Art Deco which has been lavishly revitalized by Another Planet Entertainment. We are thrilled to be back!”
MORE INFO: Silent Film Festival
Asian Art Museum
When: Events throughout May
Where: Asian Art Museum, Chong-Moon Lee Center for Asian Art and Culture, 200 Larkin St., San Francisco, CA 94102
“Celebrated in May, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month recognizes and honors the contributions, achievements, and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans (AAPI) who have shaped the culture and history of the United States. In light of the recent increase of violence and discrimination against AAPI communities, the annual celebration takes on even more importance.
AAPI Heritage Month began in 1978 as a weeklong celebration and in 1992 May was permanently designated as the commemorative month. The month of May was chosen to memorialize the arrival of the first known Japanese immigrant to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and to honor the completion of the transcontinental railroad — built by as many as 20,000 Chinese workers — on May 10, 1869.
The Asian Art Museum is dedicated year-round to uplifting the voices and experiences of the AAPI community and providing a platform for visibility, representation, and cross-cultural connection. Each May, we are honored to commemorate AAPI Heritage Month with programming that celebrates AAPI histories and cultures, builds empathy and understanding, and fights xenophobia, prejudice, and discrimination. We believe that engaging with Asian art and cultures in their many forms has the ability to educate, spark creativity, foster dialogue, connect people, and, ultimately, create change.
See below for ways to honor AAPI Heritage Month, from talks, performances, and cooking demonstrations to art activities for the whole family and lesson plans for parents and teachers. You’ll also find information on ways to support the AAPI community and stop anti-Asian hate.
The museum celebrates cultures from across Asia all year long. Learn more about our other Cultural Celebrations.”
MORE INFO: Asian Art Museum AAPI Heritage Month
SFFILM Festival
When: April 24-May 4th, 2026
Where: Theatres in the Bay Area
Not Earth Month related but film related! “SAVE THE DATE! The 69th San Francisco International Film Festival returns April 24–May 4, 2026!
The SFFILM Festival is the longest-running film festival in the Americas bringing the most innovative films from around the globe to the Bay Area since 1957. The program features 11 days of hand-selected films, world class talent, captivating Festival Talks, an Industry Summit for filmmakers, College Days, and Schools at the Festival exclusively for local students. We don’t just show films—we show what films can do!”
MORE INFO: San Francisco International Film Festival
BASH - Bay Area & Sacramento Short Film Festival
When: Saturday, May 23rd, 2026. 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Where: Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, San Francisco, CA
“Bay Area and Sac Short Films PLUS! Challenge Films. Filmmakers, Actors and Writers Compete.. Priceless NETWORKING!
BASH- Bay Area & Sacramento Short Films Festival 2026!!
BASH is a Semi-Annual Film Festival showcasing a diverse sampling of BAY AREA and SACRAMENTO made shorts and mini features, award-winning directors along with amateurs breaking in the industry and blowing everyone away. From EPIC Comedies, Horrors to Serious Dramas, and Documentaries our selections are eclectic and all across the board!!!! (TAKING SUBMISSIONS ALL YEAR)
PLUS:
- Bay Area & Sac CHALLENGE Films Festival - A Variety of Films That Competed in The MMTB Film Challenges Join Here for future challenges!!
-(First Date of Each Season) Actors COMPETE for Best Monologue!!
-Audience choice winners will win trophy and exposure on our networks.
- And of Course NETWORKING PLUS RED CARPET!!”
MORE INFO: BASH Festival
Outsider Film Night
When: May 28th, 2026, 7:00-9:00pm
Where: Clarion Performing Arts Center, 2 Waverly Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108
Cost: Free
The deadline to submit a short film 15 mins or under is May 20th. Screening takes place May 28th.
“Clarion Performing Arts Center provides education and live performance opportunities by fusing music, poetry, theater and visual art as one organic artistic experience. Its program aims to inspire and empower youth, seniors and the underserved immigrant community in San Francisco Chinatown, transform society's view on Asian Americans, and provide a safe and sacred space for addressing current social issues that impact the Asian community.”
MORE INFO: Outsider Film Night
Letter from the President
Dear WIFSFBA Community,
May arrives with a sense of momentum and reflection. Spring has finally arrived. It is a month that invites us to honor heritage, amplify voices, and continue building pathways forward with intention. As we recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we celebrate the extraordinary artists, storytellers, and leaders whose contributions have profoundly shaped our industry and our collective cultural landscape.
At Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area, this moment aligns deeply with our mission. Representation is not a trend. It is a responsibility. It is about ensuring that the stories we tell reflect the richness, complexity, and truth of the world we live in. The AAPI community has long been a source of innovation, resilience, and artistry, and we are proud to stand in support of that legacy while continuing to advocate for greater equity and visibility across all sectors of media.
May marks a time of growth and forward movement for our organization. We are preparing for our upcoming panel, An Insider’s View on Filmmaking in the Age of AI, where we will explore one of the most urgent conversations shaping our industry today. As technology evolves, so must we. The question is not whether change is coming, but how we, as creators and leaders, choose to meet it.
In parallel, we continue our commitment to empowering our members through meaningful programming, mentorship, and community-building providing events like the Women of Color
Panel we had last month. Whether you are an emerging voice or an established professional, your work matters. Your perspective matters. And together, we are stronger.
On a personal note, I remain deeply inspired by the power of independent storytelling. As many of you know, our documentary The True Story of Tamara de Lempicka & The Art of Survival continues its journey with audiences around the world. What has been most meaningful is not just the screenings, but the conversations that follow—the shared understanding that stories rooted in truth, resilience, and identity have the power to connect us across time and place.
Recently, we hosted an online screening of the film with Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area that was incredibly successful. Audiences were given access to the film for 48 hours, followed by a live Q&A two days later, which created a thoughtful and engaging dialogue with our viewers. It was a powerful reminder of how connection can extend beyond the screen.
I believe this model holds real potential for our community. It offers a meaningful way to support our members by creating both visibility and revenue opportunities for filmmakers and for WIFSFBA, while celebrating the work of women in a dynamic and accessible format. We are currently in conversation with the board about how this could be implemented more broadly, and I am excited about the possibility of building initiatives like this that uplift one another and empower us to support each other’s films in lasting and impactful ways.
Thank you for being part of this community, for supporting one another, and for continuing to show up with passion and purpose. It does not go unnoticed.
With gratitude and forward momentum,
Julie Rubio
President, Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area
WIFSFBA EVENTS
Virtual Networking Night
Virtual Networking Night
When: Tuesday, May 12th, 6:00-7:00pm PDT
Where: Zoom
Cost: Free
Our first solo WIFSFBA Virtual Networking Night for 2026!
Join WIFSFBA for an exciting Virtual Networking Night, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet fellow members, share your projects, exchange ideas, and build new collaborations—all from the comfort of your home!
Whether you're looking for a creative partner, industry advice, or just want to expand your network, this is the perfect chance to engage with a vibrant community of women in film and media.
Expect breakout room discussions, and engaging conversations with like-minded creatives. Don’t miss this chance to grow your network and get inspired!
MORE INFO: RSVP here
Script Incubator Monthly Table Reads
Script Incubator Monthly Table Reads
When: Monday, May 18th, 7:00-9:00pm PDT
Where: Zoom
The Script Incubator meets on Zoom every third Monday (sometimes second due to holidays) from 7:00-9:00 p.m. to discuss the group’s work, which includes TV pilots, features, shorts, and web series. Continuing in 2026, we are reviewing each other's work "table read" style, in which we will read aloud up to 3 script portions of 1-10 pages each. No homework!
We are also seeking actors to bring the parts alive so screenwriters can hear their words aloud. Each Zoom session will be recorded so the screenwriter can go back and see what worked and what didn't. And all participants will be encouraged to give feedback and support each other during the meetings.
If you have any questions about the table-read or would like to reserve a spot for your script at the next meeting, feel free to contact Carol Hall at bod-admin@wifsfba.org with “Script Incubator” in the subject line.
Filmmaking in the Age of AI -
Filmmaking in the Age of AI -
How AI is Transforming the Filmmaking Process without Losing the Heart of Human Storytelling
How AI is Transforming the Filmmaking Process without Losing the Heart of Human Storytelling
When: Saturday, May 30th, 12:00pm-1:30pm PDT
Where: Zoom
Cost: $15 members/$25 non-members, $5 students
Join us for a conversation about this moment - its possibilities, tensions, and the creative and financial realities filmmakers must now navigate. Our panel includes Rox Ducharme (director in animation, AI filmmaker), Basil Shadid (producer, writer), and Philip Shane (producer, director).
MORE INFO and register here: WIFSFBA Events
Save the Date for Pitch-A-Pro Night!
Save the Date for Pitch-A-Pro Night!
When: June 15th, 7:00-9:00pm Pacific
Where: Zoom
Registration Opens: May 15th
Cost: $20 members/$40 non-members
Are you a screenwriter with a completed script or a director with a project looking for a producer or a manager? Are you a producer looking for a partner? Then come to our Pitch-A-Pro Night when you can present your 2-3-minute pitch to an industry professional of your choice. At the end of the evening, at least 4 lucky people will get a chance to pitch all of the professionals at once before the entire audience.
May Community Networking
The Vine: The Video Industry Networking Event
The Vine: The Video Industry Networking Event
When: Thursday, May 7th, 6:00-8:00 PM PDT
Where: Informal Spaces (formerly Port Labs), 2044 Franklin St., Oakland, CA
Cost: $5
“We are so excited to be partnering with the Visual Effects Society again for the May VINE! As many of you know, VFX has been in the news a lot lately:
• The ground-breaking 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝗳𝗹𝗶𝘅 𝗩𝗢𝗜𝗗 𝗔𝗜 𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗹
• The closing of the award-winning 𝗣𝗶𝘅𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗼 VFX Studio
• New consumer 𝗔𝗜 𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗩𝗙𝗫 𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 disrupting the industry
We will have a VES member kickoff of our Voices of the VINE segment with their thoughts on the unprecedented change their industry is facing, as well as information about VES Bay Area.
There will be wine and pizza as usual and another opportunity to mix, mingle, and promote yourself or your projects.”
Register here: Vine Mixer Event
SF Wednesday Winedown
SF Wednesday Winedown
Join member Kristin Tieche for the Wednesday Winedown in San Francisco every month!
Keep a lookout for the announcement on our social media channels, WIFchat and the WIFSFBA website local meetups page!
East Bay Meetup
East Bay Meetup
WIFSFBA members (Beth Barany and Amy Boyd) have organized an East Bay meet-n-greet in Oakland, a WIFSFBA hub.
Ideally, we'll meet monthly on the third Wednesday of the month. Keep an eye out on WIFchat or social media! Come join us to connect, share, schmooze, and make new filmmaking friends!
Open to all -- Bring your filmmaking buddies and colleagues. Keep an eye out on WIFchat and the WIFSFBA website local meetups page!
Thank you Beth and Amy!
WIFSFBA UPDATES
The Making of Tamara de Lempicka with Julie Rubio Wrap Up
The Making of Tamara de Lempicka with Julie Rubio Wrap Up
Thanks to everyone who joined us for a behind the scenes look at the making of Julie Rubio’s award winning documentary The True Story of Tamara de Lempicka & The Art of Survival!
Julie shared the journey of bringing Tamara’s story to life—from discovery and production to global distribution—followed by a live Q&A. The level of engagement and thoughtful discussion from our members truly reflected the strength and spirit of our WIFSFBA community.
From Julie: “As President, I’m deeply grateful for your support. Events like this offer filmmakers a meaningful way to connect directly with audiences while building momentum for their work. Given the positive response, we are exploring opportunities to extend this model to support more of our members’ films. Thank you for continuing to show up for one another and for championing women in film.”
It was an inspiring, intimate, and unforgettable experience!
Women of Color Directing Panel Wrap Up
Women of Color Directing Panel Wrap Up
Thanks for joining us for our “Pathways, Power, and Purpose: Women of Color Navigating the Directing Landscape” event on April 30th, with panelists Kristina Thomas, Saray Bravo Guidetti, Kealani Kitaura, and Julie Rubio!
We heard different approaches to access, authorship and leadership from each panelist — but a major takeaway was that ‘intention’ connected everything. A commitment to telling stories that matter, and to creating space, not just for yourself, but for others. To continue forward, even when the path isn’t clear -- that’s how pathways get built! We all left the event feeling empowered to check out the power of our own creative pathways -- it was a great evening!
Become a Dual Member of WIFSFBA & New York Women in Film and Television
Become a Dual Member of WIFSFBA & New York Women in Film and Television
New York Women In Film and Television (NYWIFT) is offering dual membership to WIFSFBA members. If you are a WIFSFBA member in good standing, you may purchase a NYWIFT Industry Level membership for $100 (plus a $50 initiation fee), a saving of 50% off the normal $200 membership. Membership in NYWIFT includes:
Online and in-person networking and learning events
Marketing Creative Talent in weekly e-blast, Twitter, and Members in the News Webpage
Advanced Screenings
Online Member Center
Benefits Program
Fiscal Sponsorship
Affinity Groups and Committees
Electronic Copies of NYWIFT Publications
One Member-Price Ticket to the NYWIFT Muse Awards
For more information, please see the description here, and download and fill out form. Applications may be emailed or snail mailed to the addresses inside the application. If you have any questions, please email membership@nywift.org or call 212 679-0870 x 31.
WIFSFBA Public Member Crew List
WIFSFBA Public Member Crew List
One perk of individual WIFSFBA membership is the Public Member Crew List that you can opt into, accessed through the WIFSFBA website under "Join Us" then "Hire Us." Take a look here to find your next crew, or list yourself and your skills!
Check it out here: Women In Film San Francisco Bay Area - Public Member Crew List
WIFSFBA Private Member Crew List
WIFSFBA Private Member Crew List
A similar perk of individual WIFSFBA membership is the private version of the public list (those who prefer to only be viewed by other WIFSFBA members). This Private Member Crew List can be seen by logging into our website. This is another great resource to find collaborators, crew, and connections!
Check it out here: Women In Film San Francisco Bay Area - Member Directory
IMDB Pro Member Discount
IMDB Pro Member Discount
The new 2026 IMDbPro discount code for 30% off an annual or monthly membership is available if you are a WIFSFBA member (through WIFTI - Women in Film & Television International). Please email bod-admin@wifsfba.org with “IMDBPro discount” in the subject line for the code.
To redeem the code, users must go to IMDbpro.com/redeem, enter the promo code and log in. Please note offers may not be combined and entering a new promo code will override any lesser discount that has been applied to your account. Promotional discounts will be applied at the start of your next billing cycle. This offer is limited to members only and is non-transferable.
Note: we are waiting on WIFTI for a new code for 2026 so please stay tuned.
WIFSFBA Merch Store!
WIFSFBA Merch Store!
Check out our exclusive new WIFSFBA Film Role Apparel (Producer, Director, Screenwriter, etc.)! Wear your film role with pride AND support Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area at the same time! Whether you're treating yourself or finding the ideal gift for a friend, we've got something special for everyone. Check out the online store here: WIFSFBA merch!
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Carol Lee Hall’s Sizzle Reel at the Chinatown Film Festival Wins for Best Trailer and Audience Choice
Carol Lee Hall’s Sizzle Reel at the Chinatown Film Festival Wins for Best Trailer and Audience Choice
Board Member Carol Lee Hall's sizzle reel for her historical drama feature The Jeweled Bird was shown at the Chinatown Film Festival in Los Angeles in March! The Jeweled Bird won for Best Trailer and Audience Choice awards. Carol's strategy is to gain exposure and credibility from festivals when she pitches the feature to investors and talent.
Congratulations Carol!!
Sahra Bhimji’s Film Animal Heart at Cannes Fantastic Pavilion
Sahra Bhimji’s Film Animal Heart at Cannes Fantastic Pavilion
“Sahra Bhimji's upcoming feature film project, Animal Heart, was selected by the Cannes Fantastic Pavilion's Round Robin. The Fantastic Round Robin is a high-impact networking and promotion platform exclusively designed to connect high-potential genre projects with sales agents, production companies, and global distributors.
Within the vibrant ecosystem of the Fantastic Pavilion (at the Marché du Film in Cannes), this initiative serves as a strategic bridge to accelerate project, development, and commercial success.
Animal Heart, starring Diane Guerrero, is a bold, emotionally charged elevated horror film rooted in themes of reproductive autonomy, medical misogyny, and the fear and wonder of pregnancy.
After the Cannes Marché du Film in May, the film goes into production in the Bay Area in June! We are still looking for the support with housing, food, and donations: please visit our donation wish page here: https://www.sahrabhimji.com/donate
To follow our filmmaking journey, please check out our instagram at @animalheartfilm”
More about Sahra here: Sahra Bhimji
Congratulations Sahra!!
Rashmi Rustagi’s Film Designed By Preeti
Rashmi Rustagi’s Film Designed By Preeti
From WIFSFBA member Rashmi Rustagi:
“Over the years, I witnessed stories of strong, successful women quietly living in controlling relationships.
Those experiences stayed with me and eventually inspired my new film, Designed by Preeti, a romantic drama about healing, friendship, and finding the courage to begin again.
It’s a film that explores relationships, identity, and the challenges many people face but don’t always talk about.
The movie is now available to watch online for a limited time.
Watch here: Ticket Link
Independent films thrive and grow through community. If you have already seen the film, please share the viewing link with friends and family.
P.S. If the film moves you, I would truly appreciate a review on IMDb.”
Congratulations Rashmi!!
Courtney Fernandez’s Screenplay Cadenza selected for
Courtney Fernandez’s Screenplay Cadenza selected for
AAPI Renaissance Rally
AAPI Renaissance Rally
From WIFSFBA member Courtney Fernandez:
“I wanted to share the exciting news that my screenplay, “Cadenza,” a romantic journey that follows a Korean piano prodigy as she navigates Musical Ear Syndrome and love, has been officially selected to participate in the AAPI Renaissance Rally via Seed & Spark alongside other filmmakers from across the US and Canada who are making stories that lead with multidimensional or unexpected Asian and Pacific Islander characters, now through April 29th, 2026.
I invite all my fellow WIFSFBA colleagues to follow my journey to bring this film to life onscreen. Information about my screenplay, “Cadenza” can be found at:
Please hit the “follow” button, and share with your family and friends! I need as many followers as I can get to remain competitive!
Thank you so very much for the Table Read in February, and I look forward to any advice or comments about my campaign.”
Congratulations Courtney!!
Courtney’s Bio:
As has been the case for most things in Courtney’s life, writing her first script “just happened.” She took her love of international novels, and coupled it with her deep understanding of how impactful words can be, and hammered out her first dramatic script in 2024. While she came to writing “later in life,” she looks forward to contributing fresh ideas and different perspectives to the industry in meaningful ways.
Courtney leverages her International Peace and Conflict degree, and her years of diplomatic credentials to convey stories that help people connect to the world around them. She aspires to write films and K-dramas that mesh Korean/Asian storytelling elements with western style screenplay writing, in order to find a broader base of viewers to share her stories with.
Courtney has written a total of 7 screenplays, and has placed in 14 international writing competitions, showcasing her unique voice as a storyteller.
Do you have career or event news you’d like to share with fellow members?
We’d really like to hear about any recent career accomplishments, awards, new ventures, or a positive experience having to do with our industry. This is one of the advantages to being part of an organization like WIFSFBA -- by letting others know what you’re doing, you can expand your creative family and even find new collaborators for future projects.
So…take a moment to sit down and write something you’d like to share with your WIFSFBA sisters. Then email that blurb and any related images to bod-admin@wifsfba.org with ‘Members in the News’ in the subject line. Do it now rather than next week -- you deserve to shine! Submit one week before the end of the month to be included in the next newsletter.
Community Partners:
Events & Invitations
A BIG Thank You to our “Women of Color Directors Panel” Community Partners
A BIG Thank You to our “Women of Color Directors Panel” Community Partners
The Center for Asian American Media presents: CAAMFest 2026
When: May 7-10th, 2026
Where: Bay Area theaters, Asian Art Museum San Francisco
“CAAMFest is the nation’s leading showcase for films from Asian America and beyond. For over 45 years, the Center for Asian American Media (CAAM) has been dedicated to presenting stories that convey the richness and diversity of Asian American experiences to the broadest audience possible. As a nonprofit organization, CAAM funds, produces, distributes, and exhibits works in film, television, and digital media.
Our 44th festival returns us to our roots, with an ethos that is scrappy, inspired, and full of attitude. The energy of the future is palpable. Through curated film programming, and the most ambitious Filmmaker Summit ever, we will be hyper focused on supporting how community can drive the building of more robust futures together.”
MORE INFO: CAAM Fest 2026
As CAAMFest’s Community Partner, WIFSFBA invites you to the following two festival film screenings:
Spotlight Narrative: Honeyjoon, directed by Lilian T. Mehrel
Screening Saturday, May 9, at 12:00 pm, AMC Kabuki
“After the loss of her father, June takes a vacation with her mother Lela to the picturesque Azores islands in Portugal. Unexpectedly surrounded by honeymooners on their getaway, the mother and daughter attempt to navigate their respective grief journeys in loud silence and sometimes resistance. Stars Oakland-born actress, comedian, and writer Ayden Mayeri.”
TICKET INFO: Honeyjoon - Use Code WIFSFBACAAM for $2 ticket discount
Diamond Diplomacy directed by Yuriko Gamo Romer
Screening on Sunday, May 10, at 2:00 pm; AMC Kabuki
“Diamond Diplomacy looks back at a century-long exchange between Japan and the United States. Baseball became the national sport of Japan in 1896, and since then, the U.S. and Japan have maintained a shared love of the sport, even as the countries encountered war and other political tensions.”
TICKET INFO: Diamond Diplomacy - Use Code WIFSFBACAAM for $2 ticket discount
NYWIFT Masterclass - Writing for Film & Television: Craft
“You’re invited to the next virtual NYWIFT Masterclass: Writing for Film and Television: Craft Workshop & Refresh. Back by popular demand is one of NYWIFT’s most popular instructors, critically-acclaimed writer Amy Fox, with a new workshop series for writers of all levels.
Creating dynamic scenes, developing a character arc, building the world of your project… These are fundamental skills that writers for film and TV use every day. But when's the last time you did a deep dive into these practices? In this 3-part interactive workshop, we will practice these tools, learning trade secrets that will elevate your scene work and world-building and deepen your character development.”
Tickets are still available for the third session which takes place on May 5. Sessions will be recorded and sent to all who register. Use the code Craft20 for 20% off when you register here!
DOCLANDS DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
“Presented by the California Film Institute, DocLands is a vibrant celebration of nonfiction storytelling held annually in Marin County, California. Expanding upon the exchange of ideas and inspiration through captivating screenings, networking, and engaging conversations, DocLands strives to foster dialogue, inspire connections, and build an inclusive community around the art of documentary filmmaking. DocLands aims to illuminate filmmakers’ diverse perspectives and ignite a passion for exploring real-world issues by showcasing compelling stories and the thought-provoking insights behind them. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover, connect, and celebrate the power of documentary cinema.”
As Doclands Community Partner, WIFSFBA invites you to a May 1st festival screening of Tough Old Broads. We have 4 COMPLIMENTARY tickets for the screening to give away on a first-come-first-served basis. All you have to do is request 1 or 2 tickets via our bod-admin@wifsfba.org email (put ‘Tough Old Broads’ in the subject line).
Tough Old Broads
Friday, May 1, 2026 - 4:45PM at Rafael 1 Theater
“Meet three trailblazing women in this inspiring film whose early achievements in sports, climate action, and civil rights opened doors for countless others: Katherine Switzer, the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon; Sharon Farmer, the first woman (and person of color) to serve as the official White House photographer; and Silla Watt-Cloutier, the first woman to launch legal action against the US government and connect climate change to humans. These women shook the world and made history when they were young, but none rests on her laurels, as they continue to pursue their passions and make waves decades later. With determination and grit, these women shed light on what it takes to make it in a ‘man’s world’ and what your golden years look like when you’re a self-described ‘tough old broad.’ They’re living proof that you can follow your dreams and maybe change the world in the process.” —Kelly Clement
TICKETS: Tough Old Broads
FESTIVAL INFO: Doclands
Call for Submissions
LA Shorts International Film Festival - Screenplay Competition
LA Shorts International Film Festival - Screenplay Competition
Late Deadline: May 22, 2026
Submission Fee: $49
GUIDELINES:
• Scripts must have been completed after January 1, 2025.
• Scripts must not exceed 30 pages in length, excluding cover page.
• Scripts must be written in English.
• You may enter more than one script - entry fee is required for each script.
WINNING SCRIPT: The final film of the winning script is guaranteed to screen at the 2027 LA Shorts. All film shooting must take place after the award presentation.
MORE INFO: SUBMIT SCREENPLAY | LA Shorts
Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival
Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival
Final Submission Deadline: May 27, 2026
Submission Fee: $35-55
This film festival “is the first Academy Qualifying Film Festival for short narratives devogted to women of color across the globe. Founded by African Voices Magazine in 1997, Reel Sisters accepts films written, directed, or produced by women/non-binary filmmakers of color. Reel Sisters present in person and virtual screenings. Films showcased virtually are in competition for all awards including our Oscar qualifying award.
Reel Sisters accepts all genres and formats with a special interest in submissions from animated and web series producers. Send us films that will make our audience ‘cry, dance, laugh, sing and explore.’
Reel Sisters is a competitive festival and films are selected by an independent jury. Please submit films early as deadlines are final. Join our worldwide community of film professionals in celebrating stories produced, directed and written by women of color!”
MORE INFO: Reel Sisters of the Diaspora FF
ShortsTV
ShortsTV
Submissions: Rolling
“We have the world’s largest catalogue of high-quality shot movies and series available on TV, on mobile, online, and in theaters, and also produce original short film content for broadcasters and brands. Are you the world’s next biggest filmmaker? We are always looking for short movies from exciting talents to broadcast on our TV networks and beyond. If you have a short movie that you would like us to con sidere, please complete the form below. Our acquisitions team will watch your film and contact you if they are interested in discussing a license agreement.”
MORE INFO: Shorts TV
LA Film Festivals
LA Film Festivals
Submission Dates: various
Submission Fees: various
“LA Film Festivals is a creative hub for Los Angeles’s top independent film festivals, and a home for independent filmmakers.” Each of the following LA festivals has its own requirements, submission deadlines, and fees:
LA Comedy Film Festival
LA Indie Film Festival
LA Queer Film Festival
LA Women in Film Festival
LA Black Film Festival
LA Asian Film Festival
LA Latinx Film Festival
LA Sci-Fi Film Festival
LA Action Film Festival
LA Horror Film Festival
LA Animated Film Festival
LA Student Film Festival”
For submission info on individual festivals: LA Film Festivals
19th Annual Script Pipeline TV Writing Contest
19th Annual Script Pipeline TV Writing Contest
Regular: May 1, 2026
Late: May 15, 2026
Extended: May 31, 2026
Submission Fee: $40+
“Script Pipeline is searching for extraordinary writers with original television pilots or unproduced indie series scripts.
Together with the Screenwriting Contest, we focus foremost on finding writer representation, supporting diverse voices, championing ambitious storytelling, and pushing original projects into production.
We're currently the only competition offering an intensive, personalized process to our Quarterfinalists and higher: 1-on-1 development, long-term mentorship, career guidance, and circulation to only the leading industry execs. This has resulted in over $8 million in spec sales to studios, multiple films produced, and hundreds of emerging writers introduced to reps.”
Submit Here: Script Pipeline TV Writing Contest
24th Annual Script Pipeline Screenwriting Contest
24th Annual Script Pipeline Screenwriting Contest
Regular: May 1, 2026
Late: May 15, 2026
Extended: May 31, 2026
Submission Fee: $40+
“The 24th Annual Script Pipeline Screenwriting Contest is searching for extraordinary writers with feature screenplays across all genres.
We focus foremost on finding writers representation, supporting diverse voices, championing ambitious storytelling, and pushing original projects into production.
We're currently the only competition offering an intensive, personalized process to our Quarterfinalists and higher: 1-on-1 development, long-term mentorship, career guidance, and circulation to only the leading industry execs. This has resulted in over $8 million in spec sales to studios, multiple films produced, and hundreds of emerging writers introduced to reps.”
Submit Here: Script Pipeline Screenwriting Contest
Woodstock Film Festival
Woodstock Film Festival
Final Deadline: June 12, 2026
“Named by MovieMaker Magazine one of its Top 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee, the Woodstock Film Festival is the landmark film festival of Upstate New York and an Academy Award®–qualifying festival for Short Narrative, Short Documentary, and Short Animation. Now entering its 27th year, WFF has grown from a passionate dream into one of the country’s top indie film festivals.
In keeping with Woodstock’s legacy rooted in art, music, activism, and creative experimentation—submitted films may also be considered for our Woodstock Legacy programming. If your film explores themes of art or artists (in any medium), music or music videos, experimental work, activism, or environmentalism, please note this in your application for special consideration.”
Across a range of juried competitive categories, the Woodstock Film Festival offers prizes including:
– Best Narrative Feature*
– Best Documentary Feature
– Ultra Indie Award*
– Changemaker Award*
– Haskell Wexler Award for Best Cinematography
– Best Short Narrative
– Best Short Doc
– Best Student Short
– Best Animated Short
– Best Editing Award for Narrative & Doc Features
– Audience Award for Narrative & Doc Features
*Eligible to receive cash prices.
Submit Here: Woodstock FF
Grants, Fellowships, and Funding Corner
Film Independent Documentary Producing Lab 2026
Film Independent Documentary Producing Lab 2026
Extended Deadline: May 18, 2026
The 2026 Documentary Producing Lab, held in September, is designed for producers working primarily in the nonfiction space.
For one week, Fellows participate in workshops designed to help them navigate the ever-changing documentary landscape, with a focus on financing, finishing and distributing their films. Please note that the Lab will take place in person at our office in Los Angeles.
The Documentary Producing Lab accepts projects in active development, production or post-production. Applicants must submit a work sample of their current project. If they do not have a work sample of their current project, please include a work sample of a previous project.
Applicants must have at least one other producing credit, not including executive or associate producer credits, on a completed project, in any genre or format.
The applicant cannot be the director on the project they are submitting.
MORE INFO: Film Independent Documentary Producing Lab
The Future of Film is Female: Short Film Fund
Opening Date: April 17, 2026
Submission Deadline: May 1, 2026
Individual Financial Grants: $500 - $1,000
Post-Production In-Kind Service grants:
Heard City (sound mixing and editing - $16k value)
Nice Shoes (color correction, 20k value)
This fund “awards individual financial grants and post-production service in-kind grants twice annually to short films directed by women and non-binary filmmakers.
THE FUTURE OF FILM IS FEMALE: SHORT FILM FUND awards individual financial grants and post-production service in-kind grants twice annually to short films directed by women and non-binary filmmakers.
THE FUTURE OF FILM IS FEMALE is a non-profit organization in New York that amplifies the work of all women and non-binary filmmakers early in their career through our Short Film Fund and unique commitment to exhibition screenings of works by all women and non-binary filmmakers. The FOFIF believes that gender equality is intersectional with racial and LGBTQI+ equality and is therefore committed to creating industry-wide partnerships to work in solidarity towards an equitable future of film."
MORE INFO: Future of Film is Female: Short Film Fund
Roy W. Dean Short Film Grant - Spring 2026
Summer Grant Application (Deadline: June 30th, 2026)
Fall Grant Application (Deadline: October 31st, 2026)
Carole Dorothy Joyce Grant (Deadline: November 30th, 2026)
“Now in its 35th year, this respected grant supports independent filmmakers creating meaningful, socially impactful work.
Eligible Projects: Documentary, narrative feature, short film, and web series
Budgets under $500,000 (students encouraged to apply)
Spring 2026 Award Includes: 💵 $3,500 Cash, 🎥 Thousands in donated film products & services, including:
IndiPro Kratos Battery Kit ($600 value)
40% off ProMedia NYC post-production services
$500 Filmtools equipment credit
$1,600 Silver Sound mix session
✨ New This Year: Stories That Matter Awards
Three additional $500 awards honoring films reflecting real lives and pressing social issues.
🏆 Britt Penrod Award
$500 cash award recognizing a film making an exceptional contribution to society.
📞 Every applicant receives a complimentary 15-minute consultation."
Apply here: Roy W. Dean Grant Application - From the Heart Productions
Questions: info@fromtheheartproductions.com | 805-984-0098”
MORE INFO: Documentary & Film Fiscal Sponsorship Program For Filmmakers
Women Make Movies Production Grant
--Production Assistance Program
Rolling Applications
“This program focuses on supporting BIPOC/ALAANA, LGBTQIA women, older women, and women in film with disabilities. It provides fiscal sponsorship and offers personalized consultations, workshops and networking opportunities. Recipients get access to one-on-one consultations and pay reduced rates for industry workshops. Projects need to raise at least $50,000 in funding.”
You must be a woman filmmaker serving as project director or co-director, and should show a clear direction and realistic plan for distribution in your application.
MORE INFO: WMM Production Grant
FEAR FILMS: Film Incubation Fund - In Association with the Independent Horror Society
Rolling Deadline
“Turn your nightmare into a reality with FEAR and FILM3! Apply for funding for your short horror film.”
FOR MORE INFO AND APPLICATION: Horror Short Film Fund | Apply for Funding
Impact Partners Development Fund
Application Deadline: rolling deadline
“For early-stage documentary features, series, or projects that could be either. Impact Partners will invest in the development of 4-8 projects a year, with a range of $10K -$100K per project. We are now accepting applications. Filmmakers can apply to the fund for a variety of reasons as they get their projects off the ground, including development shoots, cutting a trailer or reel, conducting archival research, casting characters, etc.”
MORE INFO: Impact Partners
Rolling Applications
"Administered through Film Independent, the Sloan Distribution Grant awards $50,000 to a maximum of three narrative features that are entering their distribution phase. Eligible films must depict themes, stories, and characters grounded in real science, technology, or economics.
Films with innovative marketing and distribution plans are encouraged to apply."
MORE INFO: Sloan Distribution Grant
Thanks to newsletter contributors: Diane Walsh, Julie Rubio, Nil Unerdem
Newsletter designed by Lina Indeeva and edited by Nil Unerdem
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