Category: Films in Competition

“SetDec and Props” is a short film concept that tells a complete visual story with set decoration, props, music, and sound; without dialogue. It’s up to the audience’s imagination to not only put together the visual clues left behind but also potentially envision an even bigger story beyond the images. In this particular short film, we’ll dive into the life and mind of Anthony Skinner.
Directed by Lalo Dominguez (Guatemala)

CJ and Lauren are bandmates and best friends, but everything changes when CJ entangles their upstart punk band with a commercial record label giant. Will their friendship survive pop music and Colin Hanks? Each episode features a performance of one of Lauren and CJ’s original songs.
Directed by CJ Ballesteros and Lauren Moon (USA)

An Indian FOB (Fresh Off the Boat) Kay, arrives in America to go to business school only to be informed by her neighbor Bina (also Indian…but very different from Kay..because..you know.. all immigrants are not the same) that her roommate ran off to be a Hollywood star. Fate conspires to bring Kay and Ashanti (also abandoned at the 11th hour by her roommate) together as roomies – two humans from different worlds. “FOBia” follows the three women as they make their way through cultural misunderstandings and general mayhem.

“FOBia” is a comedy that humanizes the immigrant experience. By centering immigrants in this story we actually hear from immigrants rather than just about them. We understand the challenges they go through – big and small. In a time when there is a lot of discussion in America about what immigrants mean to America, FOBia seeks to find out what America means to immigrants.
Directed by Reshmi Hazra Rustebakke (USA)

Racers overcome tremendous odds to succeed in a high stakes sport. They are exceptional leaders who embody teamwork. Their profession demands it. None of this is lost on kids. Racers Who Care provides children all over the world with access to these extraordinary men and women in order to ask questions and hear their stories. These elite individuals energize basic steps to reach goals by walking kids through a roadmap to achieve them. It is personal, it is motivating, and it is life changing for young people. This short documentary film introduces us to some of the “Amazing Racers” from Racers Who Care.
Directed by Susan Colleen Snell (USA)

After a night of blurred events, two strangers are forced out of their comfort zones while waiting for a ride home.
Written by Rodney R. Bigham II (USA)

Tara gives viewers a glimpse into the world of her Daymares.
Directed by Jon Tu (USA)

A motivational spoken word driven art film telling the story of a struggling artist and boxer. It tackles Individualism, conformity, mental health and social class.
Directed by Luis Cross (UK)

The real reason why fast food chains “always forget the chips”.
Directed by Claire Fazzolari (USA)

Gym stereotypes come to life in a voyeuristic view of gym culture where everyone is trying to fit in, make friends, find love and just survive their next workout routine. Maybe you can relate!
Directed by Erick Szot, John Duffy, Chris Davies and Daniel Augustine (USA)

The younger sister Vanessa is sheltered by her older sister Zoe during her childhood. They have a strong and loving relationship. Although they live together, after Zoe found a job, their relationship starts to sour.
Directed by YuBin Zheng (Canada)