Film Forward: Recent Episodes
Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival
The official podcast of the Los Angels Diversity Film Festival, Film Forward is for Cinephiles, by Cinephiles. Through our events and podcast, LADFF establishes a true multicultural experience represented by the world’s independent film community.
Isaac Elliot and Oli Pizzey Stratford are amazingly talented and charming filmmakers. In today's episode they discuss two of their incredible films, the documentary We Are Sexual Beings, and the dark comedy Don't Come In... Yet! Isaac and Oli discuss their craft and how their being wheelchair users affects their thematic approach to their projects. You can see We Are Sexual Beings on Friday, September 22nd with LADFF. Don't Come In... Yet screens with LADFF on Saturday, September 23rd.Tickets are available now at LADFF.com.
Me Night is a wild, hilarious, and honest depiction of one woman's night alone. Filmmakers Lauren Knutti and Anna Salinas join us for an in-depth conversation on the heart of their film and the brilliant technical approaches to making it.
Me Night screens on Saturday, September 23rd with the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com
Bubjan is a powerful documentary that chronicles an Iranian man who has been living in exile in the United States since the Islamic Revolution in 1979. He was a member of the Iranian parliament, where he dedicated his life to cultivating a progressive, modern, and free society in Iran. But the rise of the Islamic Republic eclipsed those aspirations and forced him to leave behind everything he knew.
Joining us on the Film Forward are director Nicholas Mihm and producer Rostam Zafari.
Don’t miss Bubjan - screening with LADFF on Saturday, September 23rd. Tickets are on sale now at LADFF.com
LADFF alum Emelie Claxton returns to Film Forward to discuss her new project, Doggone. In this deep dive, Emelie talks about her writing process, the heart of her story, and pre-production, which includes her Kickstarter campaign.
You can donate to Doggone's crowdfunding campaign at DoggoneShortFilm.com from now through September 15th.
Felicia Pride's work spans television, film, and podcasts. In this episode of Film Forward, she discusses how her work on shows like Grey's Anatomy and Queen Sugar sharpened her craft and prepared her for personal projects like Look Back At It.
Felicia and host Nicholas Ybarra discuss the importance of making a place for yourself in the film industry, carving your own path, and honing your true voice.
Look Back At It screens with LADFF on Friday, September 22nd. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com
Joshua Coppenbarger's short film Opening Night screens this week at LADFF's 10th Anniversary Celebration.
In this episode of Film Forward, Joshua discusses his journey from sports documentaries to narrative romance. PLUS: the triumphant return of our Gimme Three segment!
See Opening Night on August 17th at the Laemmle NoHo 7. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com
Films have incredible power to change lives and perspectives and evoke empathy. Sometimes, they can piss us off as well. Such is the case with one 1997 indie-darling, Chasing Amy.
Twenty-six years after the film's release, a beautiful counterpart to the film is released, Chasing Chasing Amy. A documentary that examines the complex legacy of Kevin Smith's Chasing Amy (1997) on LGBTQ+ people and its life-saving impact on director Sav Rodgers.
Two years ago, we were honored to speak with Academy Award-winner Sam Pollard, a legend among editors and documentary filmmakers. He talked to Film Forward about his documentary MLK/FBI.
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we are proud to revisit our discussion about this pertinent and essential film.
In this episode, Mr. Pollard elaborates on how he and his team approached this wonderfully crafted film and what audiences can take away from the lessons of the past.
The film is available to stream now on Hulu.
Returning guest Ryan Lacen joins us for another installment of Gimme Three. This week’s theme is Female-Led Thrillers, as we celebrate the Los Angeles Premiere of Save Me From Everything, a mystery thriller starring Paige Henderson.
Ryan Lacen and Nicholas Ybarra each provide three pulse-pounding thrillers led by powerhouse performances from Zoe Kravitz, Jodie Foster, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Naomi Watts, Natalie Portman, and Sofia Boutella.
Check out all six of these fantastic films, then see Save Me From Everything, hosted by LADFF on January 12th at the Laemmle NoHo7. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com.
Writer, producer, and star, Jéan Elie joins the podcast to discuss his incredible series, Send Help, which can be streamed right now on allblk.tv.
Elie (Insecure, Rap Sh!t) discusses the journey to tell his own story and what it was like to sit in the director's chair for the first time. Jéan also highlights the birth of his own production company, Bassett House Pictures - visit their website bassetthousepic.com for more info on their upcoming film festival.
Actor and Musical aficionado Max Sopkin joins the podcast for another installment of Gimme Three. Not only do we discuss some spectacular movie musicals, but we also explore the very definition of what a movie musical is.
Max and host Nicholas Ybarra tell us how these musicals changed their life trajectory, work, and friendship.
Let us know what your favorite movie musicals are!
In her debut solo special, No Bad Days, Alyssa Limperis takes the audience through a funny and relatable journey of grief, love, and strength. She blends stand-up comedy and a one-woman show to create a unique and powerful special not soon to be forgotten.
In this episode of Film Forward, Alyssa joins us to discuss her writing process, finding comedy in grief, and the intricacies of filming a stand-up special.
No Bad Days is available to stream right now on Peacock! Check it out and let us know what you think.
It's our 100th episode!!
On our 100th episode of Film Forward, we are joined by LADFF Festival Director Sonja Mereu. Together, Sonja and Nicholas preview the 2022 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival and highlight a few of the films they are excited about.
Tickets are available for LADFF right now! Visit LADFF.com/2022fest.
Our series covering the 2022 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival continues as we do a deep dive into the beautiful and ethereal short film, Letters To Axel.
Filmmakers Miles Adonay Lopez and Jonathan De La Torre discuss their writing process and the creative challenges of blending the real world with the dream world.
Letters To Axel screens with LADFF on Friday, August 19th, as a part of the Love. Lust. Lost. block. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com/2022fest.
On this episode of Film Forward, we chat with Rae Binstock and Maria Fernanda Diez, producers of the wildly entertaining short film DIVR, which will screen at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival on August 18th.
DIVR follows three founders of an exclusive lesbian sex app, shattering the start-up world’s glass ceilings, but the pressures of success have threatened the integrity of their friendship - and worse, their brand.
Tickets for DIVR are available now at LADFF.com/2022fest. Join us for a fantastic night after you listen to these kick-ass filmmakers.
Our series on 2022's Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival continues with Diliana Deltcheva and Alex Frnka, makers of the gripping short film Blue Moon. Blue Moon follows a family that unravels one evening as they struggle with the best course of care for their mother, who is in the later stages of Alzheimer's.
Diliana and Alex discuss their uncomfortable but relatable subject and the importance of creating a family off-screen and on-screen.
Blue Moon screens as a part of the block Love. Lust. Lost. on Friday, August 19th. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com/2022fest.
Our series highlighting the filmmakers from the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival continues with the director of the powerful short film When She Was Good.
When a young girl discovers that Santa is not real, she questions the lies told by adults and the terrible secret that she has been forced to keep.
Join us at LADFF to see When She Was Good, screening Saturday, August 20th, as a part of the Through Her Lens block. Tickets are available right now at LADFF.com
As a part of our series highlighting filmmakers from the 9th Annual Los Angeles Diversity Film:
Wet Seal Cigarettes blends and bends cinematic genres to create a world where consumerism is eating individualism alive. This short film takes every opportunity to inspire the individual to be more than what they consume, whether it be their environment, media, or even the illustrious Wet Seal Cigarette.
Writer/Director Percival Bernard and Producer/Star Nicholas G. Sims join Film Forward to discuss the pertinent themes of Wet Seal Cigarettes, as well as the film’s intoxicating style and performances.
Come see Wet Seal Cigarettes at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival August 20th as a part of the This Is America block. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com
Director and Producer Emelie Mahdavian joins Film Forward to discuss her new film, Bitterbrush. The beautiful and immersive documentary follows two friends who traverse the changes in season, as well as the changes in their lives.
Emelie discusses her relationship with the fascinating subjects of the film and what it was like adapting to the conditions in rural Idaho.
Bitterbrush is screening this week in select theatres and will be available on VOD starting June 24th. Let us know what you think.
https://magpictures.com/bitterbrush/
Katt Shea has directed some of the most memorable cult films of the last quarter-century, including Poison Ivy, The Rage: Carrie 2, and Streets.
In this episode of Film Forward, Katt discusses her storied career, from her start working with Roger Corman to her recent work in family films with Netflix.
We also discuss her latest film, Rescued By Ruby, a heartwarming movie available to stream now on Netflix.
Drop us a line and let us know what you think!
StoryNosh is a digital storytelling competition served in delicious bite-sized pieces. Four themes are explored throughout this initial season, each featuring a handful of stories released weekly on YouTube.
The web series' Director Aysha Wax and producers/showrunners David Chiu and Daphna Shull join Film Forward to discuss their selection process and their adaptation and creative process.
You can check out the Web Series, presented by The Braid, at the-braid.org/storynosh.
The HBO Documentary, ICAHN: The Restless Billionaire, explores the fascinating contradictions at the heart of the famed financier Carl Icahn. He has amassed close to 20 billion dollars over the last half-century was at the forefront of some of the most legendary business deals of our time; the film dissects his legacy and the American system that helped create it. On this episode of Film Forward, we are joined by the film's writer/director, Bruce David Klein. Bruce discusses the film's long road and what it was like working with Icahn himself.
As always, our guest gives us three excellent film recommendations in our Gimme Three segment.
ICAHN: The Restless Billionaire is streaming now on HBO Max. Watch this riveting and informative documentary, and please let us know what you think.
2021 was a tremendous year for cinema. Not only were we treated to a beautiful array of stories, but it was also the year when we were able to return to the cinemas.
In this episode of Film Forward, our producers Sonja Mereu, Anselm Kennedy, and Nicholas Ybarra each give three of their favorite films from the year that was 2021.
Please give us a listen and let us know what your favorites from 2021 are in the comments.
We conclude our series on All The World Is Sleeping with one of the film's stars, Kristen Gutoskie. Kristen discusses the detailed work that created her character Nell, both from a physical and emotional standpoint.
In our Gimme Three segment, Kristen highlights some incredible performances that informed and inspired her work in All The World Is Sleeping.
Film Forward continues its series on the film All The World Is Sleeping. In the episode, we're joined by composer Emily Greene. Emily discusses her composition process, inspirations, and what it was like laying vocals down in her music.
Emily also helps us with a special edition of Gimme Three. Listen and show her some love. And see All The World Is Sleeping on January 20th. Tickets are available at LADFF.com
All The World Is Sleeping follows Chama, a mother in New Mexico who’s fighting for her own life and the ones she loves. She sinks deeper into her addiction while struggling to surface for her daughter.
On this episode of Film Forward, we’re joined by All The World Is Sleeping writer and director Ryan Lacen. Ryan discusses the impactful backstory of the film, the importance of creating a familial feeling on set, and the collaboration with his fantastic cast and crew.
All The World Is Sleeping is screening for one night with LADFF on January 20th at the Laemmle NoHo7. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com.
Red Rocket is a new film by acclaimed writer/director Sean Baker. The film follows Mikey Saber, a washed-up porn star who returns to his small Texas hometown, not that anyone wants him back.
On this episode of Film Forward, we’re joined by Red Rocket’s cinematographer Drew Daniels. Drew discusses his creative collaboration with Sean Baker, working with a micro-sized crew, and the significance this project had on him.
Red Rocket is playing in theaters, and the film begs to be seen on the big screen. Check it out and let us know what you think.
"Juice WRLD: Into The Abyss" follows the meteoric rise of the late hip-hop artist. The powerful HBO documentary features archival footage of Juice WRLD performances, his artistic process, and his struggles.
Director Tommy Oliver joins us to discuss his exploration of the footage and his emotional connection to the incredible artist gone too soon.
DMX’s connection with his passionate fanbase is on full display in the riveting documentary, DMX: Don’t Try To Understand. This immersive film follows Earl “DMX” Simmons through one eventful year of his life.
We are honored to be joined by the film’s director, Christopher Frierson, who discusses their odd first encounter, what it was like touring with the hip-hop legend, and stories about the man, Earl Simmons.
The incredible documentary is available to stream now on HBO MAX. Check it out and let us know what you think.
What do Ethan Hawke, Jim Carrey, Terry Gilliam, Fritz Lang, and Robin Wright have in common? Sci-Fi premonitions!
Film Forward returns with one of our patented Gimme Three episodes. The theme for this installment is Sci-Fi Premonitions. Host Nicholas Ybarra and guest David Chiu each recommend three amazing science-fiction films that accurately predict the future.
Enjoy this fun discussion, and let us know what you think of the films!
Film Forward is thrilled to be joined by award-winning actor and author Murisa Harba. Murisa discusses her insightful and eye-opening book Acting With Energy.
In Acting With Energy, Murisa outlines her signature CHAKRA APPROACH to performance. This episode is not only a must-listen for aspiring actors but also aspiring writers and directors.
Acting With Energy is available to purchase now on Amazon.
In this episode of Film Forward, the accomplished producers Daniela Alatorre and Elena Fortes discuss their brilliant and inventive documentary, A Cop Movie.
The Netflix doc, A Cop Movie, takes us deep into the Mexican police forces with the story of Teresa and Montoya, together known as ‘the love patrol.’ In this thoroughly original and unpredictable documentary, the filmmakers play with the boundaries of nonfiction and immerse the audience into the human experience of police work within a dysfunctional system.
A Cop Movie is available to stream right now on Netflix. Check it out, and let us know what you think! This genre-bending documentary is not to be missed.
Earlier this year, LADFF had the honor of screening a compelling and pertinent film, In The Dark of the Valley, which airs this Sunday, November 14th on MSNBC - 10 PM ET and 7 PM PST.
In the Dark of the Valley is a deep dive into the nuclear meltdown at Santa Suzana Field Lab and the persistent effort to hide the meltdown and its effects on the community. More importantly - the film follows the people who are working tirelessly to get that site cleaned up and hold the responsible parties accountable.
In this edition of Film Forward, we revisit our discussion with the film’s director, Nicholas Mihm, and a mother who took it upon herself to fight for what is right - Melissa Bumstead.
On this episode of Film Forward, we are joined by the filmmakers of the wildly creative and raunchy short film 1-800-D-Direct.
While working a mundane job selling dishwashers in 1960’s Manhattan, Joyce and Frances secretly start a secret database of all the meant in New York City-based on sexual performance.
This jam-packed episode features director Clare Macdonald and writers/producers/stars Haley Bishop and Gemma Yates-Round.
You can see 1-800-D-Direct at LADFF’s REEL WOMEN showcase, screening October 15th at 8:00 pm. Tickets are available at LADFF.com.
The powerful and pertinent film Jane is set during the burgeoning women’s rights movement in the era before Roe v. Wade. Teresa and Josie are a part of an underground group that breaks the law and risks everything to help women access safe abortions. When their trusted doctor doesn’t show up, will they be forced to turn away women in need?
On this episode of Film Forward, we are honored to be joined by the film’s writer/director, Natalija Vekic.
Natalija discusses her research process for the film based on actual events, the collaboration with her incredible cast (Mishel Prada, Mekenna Melvin), and some of the challenges she and her team experienced when shooting their most crucial scene.
You can see Jane on the big screen at LADFF’s Reel Women Showcase at the Let Live Theatre in West Hollywood. October 16th! Tickets are available now at LADFF.com.
Bring Your Own Brigade is a gripping investigation into our landscape's hidden fire stories and on-the-ground experiences of firefighters and residents struggling through deadly fires.
We discuss this incredible documentary with Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Lucy Walker. Lucy discusses her experiences filming intense fire sequences and what she learned from these personal and heartbreaking stories.
Bring Your Own Brigade is a must-see film - you can see it now on the big screen in select theaters! It will also be available on the CBS News App and Paramount+ starting August 20th.
Not Going Quietly follows Ady Barkan, whose life is upended when he is diagnosed with ALS. Still, a confrontation with a powerful senator catapults him to national fame and ignites a once-in-a-generation political movement.
In today’s episode of Film Forward, we are joined by director Nicholas Bruckman and producer Amanda Roddy. They discuss the challenges of filming a documentary on the road, the insanity of watching Ady’s rapid fame, and what they learned from Ady’s journey.
Not Going Quietly plays in select theaters (Los Angeles: Laemmle Town Center 5 in Encino). See it on the big screen and let us know what you think! It is an uplifting, empowering, and inspiring film.
The Pine Ridge Reservation (in South Dakota) declares a State of Emergency when youth suicide rates reach the highest levels in the country. A respected female elder leads the Oglala Sioux Tribe’s suicide prevention team while mentoring a group of suicide-survivor teenagers to find their voice.
This is the story of The Bears on Pine Ridge - a powerful, eye-opening, and empowering documentary by filmmaker Noel Bass. In this episode of Film Forward, Noel discusses the making of his first film, what it was like living on the reservation, the relationships he built and how people can help the Bear program.
The Bears on Pine Ridge will be streaming at LADFF.com from August 9th - August 14th. It is a film that must be seen - check it out and let us know what you think!
Duet is the story of one fateful day in the lives of 8-year-old girls May and Shadmit, who dislike each other but learn that their lives have become oddly intertwined forever.
On this episode of Film Forward, we are joined by Duet’s writer and director, Mika Orr (former LADFF Best Director Award Winner). Mika discusses the long journey with this personal story, filming across two countries, and what she took away from an extended post-production process.
As always, Mika also provides three film recommendations of work that inspired her in our Gimme Three segment.
Watch Duet in the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 5th - August 9th in the program, A Many Splendored Thing. Go to LADFF.com to stream or for tickets.
The feature film documentary In the Dark of the Valley is a chilling examination of the 1959 partial nuclear meltdown at the Santa Susana Field Lab, and the decades-long effect it’s had on the community and its residents.
The film is both gripping and uplifting, thanks to the work of community leaders, parents, and Melissa Bumstead - the mother of a cancer survivor who is fighting to get the spill cleaned up 60 years after the disaster.
In this episode, we are honored to be joined by Melissa Bumstead herself and the film’s director Nicholas Mihm.
In the Dark of the Valley is playing at the Laemmle Town Center in Encino as a part of the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival. Tickets for the event are available at LADFF.com
This week, the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival returns for it’s 8th installment. In this episode of Film Forward, Festival Director Sonja Mereu and Program Director Nicholas Ybarra discuss some of their favorite films from this year’s lineup.
LADFF will hold three In-Person screenings - July 29th, August 5th and August 12th. Online streaming for LADFF will be available from August 1st - August 14th at LADFF.com
Tickets, info and full festival lineup are available right now at LADFF.com
Hello, From Taiwan is a personal and intimate story from writer/director Tiffany Frances. In this episode of Film Forward, Tiffany discusses her experience in writing a personal story, the challenges of shooting a period piece on a budget and what it was like working with her incredible cast.
Hello, From Taiwan is nominated for two LADFF Jury Awards; Best Short Film and Best Director.
You can see the incredible short at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival, streaming from August 5th - August 9th. Tickets are available now at LADFF.com.
LADFF’s first In-Person screening will be taking place on July 29th and we couldn’t have picked a better film to return to the big screen with. Best Summer Ever is hilarious and uplifting musical/rom-com. We are so excited to be joined by the film’s star Shannon DeVido, an incredible actor and comedian.
Best Summer Ever is not only a terrific film, it is the first film to have over 50% of the cast and crew be people with disabilities.
Shannon takes us behind the scenes of the making of this epic movie; we laugh, we learn and we love. And as always, our guest participates in our favorite segment - Gimme Three!
You can see the film at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival on July 29th at the Laemmle Town Center in Encino. Tickets are available right now at LADFF.com.
Freeze follows Joy, whose fairytale romance crashes and burns on her 35th birthday, the incessant TICK-TOCK of her biological clock pushes her to try new things.
Freeze is a surrealist dark comedy that fires on all cylinders. In this edition of Film Forward, we are joined by Freeze’s writer/director Maya Albanese who discusses her inspiration for the short, it’s poignant commentary and it’s unique visuals.
Freeze will be a part of the 8th Annual Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival, streaming from August 1st - August 5th in the “That’s What She Said” block.
Tickets and info available now at LADFF.com
The powerful documentary Crip Camp just earned the Peabody Award, an incredible and well-earned accomplishment.
Last year we spoke with Crip Camp directors Jim Lebrecht and Nicole Newnham about their beautiful film, the history of disability rights and what’s next for the movement.
The Academy Award nominated Crip Camp is available to stream right now on Netflix. Enjoy!
In the Heights is an epic return back to the cinema! The film pulsates with energy and love. If you haven’t seen it yet - now would be the perfect time to do so!
Last year we spoke with In the Heights star Melissa Barrera about the upcoming release of the film (of course the release got pushed back due to the pandemic). We are re-releasing this episode for all of the new In the Heights fans to hear Melissa share some amazing stories about the production and to learn more about her skyrocketing career.
We also talk about powerful series Vida which she also stars in. All three seasons of Vida are available to stream now on Starz.
In The Heights is playing in theaters globally! Go see it… and see it again!
Film Forward returns with another one of our patented Gimme Three episodes. On this installment, returning guest David Chiu and host Nicholas Ybarra do a deep dive on their favorite films from the year 2001!
There must have been something in the water that year as many of the films we discuss happen to have many similar themes, including loneliness, existentialism, tech horror and of course - dreams!
Join us as we celebrate these film’s twenty year anniversary - and let us know what your favorite film from 2001 is!
Warrior is a heart-pounding, masterfully executed series based on an original concept and treatment by the legend Bruce Lee. The series is executive produced by his daughter, Shannon Lee. And on this episode of Film Forward, we are joined by Warrior’s Assistant Stunt Coordinator Johnny Yang.
Johnny Yang discusses what it means to be for a super fan of kung fu to be on a Bruce Lee show. He explains how he and the rest of his stunt team are able to create such incredible and consistent fight sequences and how the creative team balanced the series’ perfect balance of homage and invention.
As always, Mr. Yang partakes in our Gimme Three segment where he provides the audience with three film recommendations of movies that’s inspired him and his work.
Seasons 1 & 2 of Warrior are available to stream on HBO MAX.
The new comedy film Golden Arm follows a tough lady trucker who trains her wimpy best friend to compete in the National Ladies Arm Wrestling Championship.
On this episode of Film Forward, we were honored to be joined by Maureen Bharoocha, the director of Golden Arm. Maureen discusses what it was like to work with some of the funniest comedians in the game and she kept each arm wrestling scene feel fresh and exciting.
The film is wall to wall laughs and you’ll have the opportunity to check it out this Friday, April 30th! Golden Arm will be available in select theaters and also on Apple TV, Amazon, and Altavoid.com. This film is worth a few watches - it is that much fun!
Some of the most underrated and under appreciated artists that work in cinema are stunt performers. Not only does their work involve immense creativity and technical knowledge, but they also put their bodies on the line; not in the metaphorical way, they literally put their bodies on the line. So during Oscar week, we want to give some love to the department that the Academy has ignored for yet another year - the Stunt Department.
We bring you another one of our patented Gimme Three Episodes; Gimme Three Stunt Films. Helping us out with this kick-ass (pardon the pun) theme is Luci Romberg. An accomplished stunt woman a national champion gymnast. Luci has worked on dozens of films as a stunt performer including Thunder Force, Bird Box, Spy, The Conjuring, Zombieland and Ghostbusters.
Luci and host Nicholas Ybarra each give us three movies that blew their stunt-loving minds. Next time you’re watching a film or a television show, keep an eye out for the stunt work and give them a round of applause. They’ve more than earned it.
Enjoy the episode! Let us know what your favorite stunt films are!
Film Forward returns and is joined by a good friend of LADFF, David Radcliff. David is an active member of the Committee for Writers with Disabilities at the Writers Guild of America, West and is writer on the hit Netflix show Waffles + Mochi.
David and host, Nicholas Ybarra discuss the highly creative episode construction of Waffles + Mochi. He also discuss how working on this show parlayed into a roll on the Academy Award nominated film, Crip Camp.
As always, our guest gives us three film recommendations in our favorite segment - Gimme Three.
Waffles + Mochi is available to stream now on Netflix. It’s a great show for kids and adults.
Film Forward returns with acclaimed writer/director Philippe Lacôte to discuss his new film, Night of the Kings. The movie is nominated for and Independent Spirit Award and is the Ivory Coast’s official selection for the 2021 Academy Awards.
Night of the Kings follows a young man who is sent to “La Maca,” a prison of Ivory Coast in the middle of a forest ruled by it’s prisoners. With the red moon rising, he is designated by the Boss to be the new “Roman and must tell a story to the other prisoners throughout the night… or pay the price.
Philippe and host Nicholas Ybarra discuss the film’s response from the Ivory Coast in the middle of a turbulent political climate. The filmmaker also does a deep dive on the construction and filming of the “La Maca” prison, and the explains the significance of Kings and Queens to Ivory Coast culture.
As always, our guest takes part in our Gimme Three segment, providing us three films that inspired him and inspired his work.
Night of the Kings is available on demand right now. Check it out and please let us know what you think.
This week we are honored to be joined by one of the most impressive producers working today, Molly Asher. In 2020, Mollye won the Film Independent’s Producer Award. In recent years she has produced many award winning films including The Rider, Songs My Brother Taught Me, Swallow and her latest film - the Golden Lion Winner at the Venice Film Festival and Golden Globe Nominee, Nomadland.
Mollye and host Nicholas Ybarra discuss the importance of trust when making a film that blends reality and fiction. We also discuss what it’s like working with incredible non-actors at the same time as legendary performers like Frances McDormand and David Strathairn.
As always, our guest recommends three films that inspired her and inspired her work in our favorite segment, Gimme Three.
Nomadland is playing in select theaters and drive-ins (check your local listings). You can also see it on VOD and Hulu starting Friday, February 19th.
Film Forward returns with another edition of our Gimme Three Episodes.
With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, we bring you Gimme Three Romantic Comedies. Our guest for this week is Adriana Lopez, a dear friend who has a doctorates degree in Rom-Coms (just kidding, I don’t think that exists - but if it did - Adriana would have one).
Join us as we celebrate love, laughs and some of the greatest rom-coms to ever grace the silver screen.
2020 was an unprecedented year for cinema. For much of the year, we weren’t able to immerse ourselves in the engrossing theatre experience. Yet, 2020 provided us with some outstanding and fresh filmmaking.
This episode just scratches the surface of some of the best that the year 2020 had to offer. Film Forward host Nicholas Ybarra, LADFF director/PGA member Sonja Mereu and Film Forward producer Anselm Kennedy get together for the annual Gimme Three Favorites of 2020 episode.
The trio do deep dives on their favorites from the year and discuss why their picks made an impact on them.
Let us know what your favorites of the year were. Drop a comment or message us on social media:
Twiter: @LADFF
Instagram: @ladiversityfilmfest
The United States of America has inaugurated it’s 46th president. Film Forward marks this occasion with another one of our patented Gimme Three episodes. Return guest David Chiu joins us for Gimme Three: Presidential Films.
David and host Nicholas Ybarra each provide three of their favorite presidential pictures (real or fake). They dissect the incredible writing and directing in each film. They also discuss the historic relevance of the presidents and how their terms have impacted the nation today.
Join us as we look at our past, present and try to make sense of our future. This episode was a lot of fun to make, we hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we are discussing the new documentary MLK/FBI with it’s director, the legendary Sam Pollard.
Mr. Pollard is an Academy Award Nominee and an Emmy Award winner. In this episode, he elaborates on how he and his team approached this wonderfully crafted film, and what audiences can take away from the lessons of the past. MLK/FBI delivers a profound message that resonates in 2021.
The film is playing in virtual cinemas today. We highly recommend you see it; and when you do, please let us know what you think.
Based on the best selling book by Naoki Higashida, The Reason I Jump is an immersive film exploring the experiences of nonspeaking autistic people from around the world. We are honored to be joined by the film’s director, Jerry Rothwell.
Jerry and host, Nicholas Ybarra discuss the techniques and stylistic choices used to put the audience in the sensory world of it’s subjects. Jerry also discusses what he learned form Naoki and the people he follows in the film.
The Reason I Jump is in select theaters NOW. It is also available virtually. And for all my Los Angeles listeners, it is available at Laemmle Virtual Cinemas. Not only will you get to see an outstanding film - but you can also support the cinemas and our local theatre chains.
We ring in the year 2021 with a bang! Bing Liu joins us to discuss his Academy Award Nominated film Minding the Gap which gets a Criterion Collection release on January 12th.
Bing and host Nicholas Ybarra discuss the making of the documentary and what it was like to put Bing’s own life and experiences into the film. We also talk about what went into building the Criterion Collection special features.
* GIVEAWAY - Film Forward is giving away a Criterion Collection Blu Ray of Minding the Gap*. Click on this link to enter!
Through this link you’ll find other ways earn more entries. Good luck!
Film Forward returns with another one of our patented Gimme Three episodes. Given the unprecedented year that this was, we decided to theme this episode; Gimme Three: Films that Embody 2020.
Joining us to tackle this deep prompt is Mr. David Chiu; writer, director, cinephile and close friend of the the podcast.
David and host, Nicholas Ybarra each provide three recommendations of films that they feel epitomize the whirlwind year of 2020. The pair suggest films that address political strife, racial injustice, the pandemic and how the human condition reacts to it all.
It’s been a hard year for all of us. This podcast will not provide the answers on how we move forward. But our goal is that this podcast can offer some insight, perspective, and perhaps even some hope. If nothing else, this podcast will provide you with some epic movies to watch.
Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults is a thorough examination of the infamous UFO cult through the eyes of its former members and loved ones. What started in 1975 with the disappearance of 20 people from a small town in Oregon, ended in 1997 with the largest suicide on US soil and changed the face of modern new age religion forever.
Director Clay Tweel and producer Shannon Riggs join us to discuss the intricacies of their documentary and what they took away from this fascinating examination of the human mind.
Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults is available to stream now on HBO MAX.
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, comment and share our podcast with your friends.
We return with another installment of our famous Gimme Three episodes, this month we explore the theme “Animal Heroes.” As we approach the holiday season - we wanted to pay our respects to our non-human friends, show them some love and maybe think twice about what we put on our plates at Thanksgiving dinner.
Our guest is Asher Brown. Asher is a director, producer, the founder of CEO of PollutionTV and the co-founder of the non-profit, Switch4Good. Asher is also an animal rights activist and a champion for veganism (don't worry, he loves non-vegans too).
Asher and host, Nicholas Ybarra do a deep dive on their favorite films with animal protagonists.
We also debut a new segment during our break: LADFF Festival Director gives us Sonja’s Movie Minute.
Follow Asher on Instagram: @smasherbrown
Follow Nicholas on Instagram: @nicholasybarra
Follow LADFF/Film Forward on Instagram: @ladiversityfilmfest
Follow LADFF on Twitter: @LADFF
We conclude our coverage of the 2020 New Orleans Film Festival with a documentary about the rise and fall of the infamous Six Flags New Orleans. The film is Closed for Storm. The director is Jake Williams.
Jake joins us on Film Forward to discuss his infatuation with Six Flags New Orleans and what it was like to step foot on the abaondoned park for the first time. The film is both powerful and informative.
As always Jake partakes in our Gimme Three segment, providing us with three film recommendations of work that inspired him and his career.
You can see Closed of Storm at the New Orleans Film Festival until Nov. 22nd.
For tickets, visit: https://neworleansfilmsociety.org
To stay up to date with the film, visit: https://www.closedforstorm.com
We are honored to be joined by Maia Lekow and Christopher King, the directors of the breathtaking documentary The Letter.
The Letter follows Karisa who travels from Mombasa back to his rural home when he finds out that his grandmother has been accused of witchcraft. It turns out the threats and accusations aimed at his grandmother are coming from his own family members.
The Letter has been selected as the official Kenyan submission to the Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Feature.
You can watch this gripping film at the New Orleans Film Festival until November 22nd. Visit https://neworleansfilmsociety.org for tickets.
To stay up to date on all things Film Forward, subscribe on Apple Podcasts and follow us on Instagram at @ladiversityfilmfest
Follow The filmmakers of The Letter on IG:
@maialekow or at @the.letter.film
This week’s episode of Film Forward highlights the gripping short documentary Do Not Split which puts audiences right in the middle of the intense Hong Kong protests that took place in 2019.
We are joined by the film’s director Anders Hammer as he takes us through his filmmaking process and the importance of social awareness in documentaries.
As always, our guest partakes in our segment Gimme Three. Mr. Hammer provides the audience with three incredible recommendations that are also amazing pairings with Do Not Split.
You can watch Do Not Split at the New Orleans Film Festival, available until November 22nd. Visit https://neworleansfilmsociety.org for tickets.
Follow Anders Hammer at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andersshammer/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anders.hammer
Twitter: https://twitter.com/andershammer
Website: www.andershammer.com
Website: https://fieldofvision.org
Throughout the month of November we will be highlighting some incredible documentaries from the stacked New Orleans Film Festival.
To kick off the month, we talk with Zandashé Brown, the festival’s programming manager & arts development coordinator.
Zandashé and host, Nicholas Ybarra compare notes as festival programmers. They discuss the importance of inclusion and diversity, and how their festivals have responded and pivoted in the age of Covid.
We also discuss one of Zandashé’s films, Blood Runs Down, a chilling southern-gothic short.
You can watch that film on her website at: http://www.zandashe.com
To purchase tickets to the New Orleans Film Festival, visit: https://neworleansfilmsociety.org
This episode of Film Forward features the writer, director and star of the new film, Good, Mr. Justin Etheredge.
Good is follows Payton, who becomes the caretaker of Gregory Devereaux, a wealthy man facing his final months. As they become close, Gregory's past sins force Payton to decide between his dreams and a pregnancy that could squander them all.
As always, our guests join us in our segment Gimme Three, where they hook us up with 3 film recommendations of films that have inspired them and inspired their work.
Good will be available to view at the Austin Film Festival from October 22nd - 29th. Visit AustinFilmFestival.com for tickets.
This episode of Film Forward features the documentarian Lucas Millard, co-director of the new film, Baato.
Baato is follows Mikma and her family as they travel by foot from their village deep in the Himalaya of Nepal to sell local medicinal plants in urban markets. This year, construction of a new highway to China has begun in their roadless valley, and things are never going to be the same.
As always, our guests join us in our segment Gimme Three, where they hook us up with 3 film recommendations of films that have inspired them and inspired their work.
Baato will be available to view at the Austin Film Festival from October 23rd - 25th. Visit AustinFilmFestival.com for tickets.
This episode of Film Forward features the incredible directors, Cassie Hay & Amy Winston as we discuss their new film Queens of Pain.
Queens of Pain is an intimate portrait of three athletes of Gotham Girls Roller Derby League. The film follows Suzy Hotrod, Evilicious, and Captain Smack Sparrow as they find their power on and off the track and face down the odds to play the sport they love.
As always, our guests join us in our segment Gimme Three, where they hook us up with 3 film recommendations of films that have inspired them and inspired their work.
Queens of Pain will be available to view at the Austin Film Festival from October 24th - 29th. Visit AustinFilmFestival.com for tickets.
We return with another one of our famous Gimme Three episodes, exploring the theme "Hispanic Horrors." As we close out Hispanic Heritage Month and plunge head first into Halloween Season - Hispanic Horrors seemed like an exciting and apt theme to explore.
Our guest is writer/director Felix Martiz (Santiago, Gone).
Listen as Felix and host, Nicholas Ybarra, explore some of their favorite horror films by Hispanic directors. Their selections are not only scary as hell, but they also explore some of the most important issues facing our society today.
Enjoy! Let us know what your favorite Hispanic Horror Films are. And if you dig what you hear - please subscribe and share.
One of our famous GIMME THREE episodes returns!
We are joined by our good friend, writer/director David Chiu to do a deep dive on our favorite films from the year 2000.
David, Sonja Mereu and host, Nicholas Ybarra each give three film recommendations from the year that was exactly two decades ago. We draw connections with all of our selections and examine what the world was like in the year 2000 and how it is represented in these films.
You can follow us on Instagram @ladiversityfest
You can follow us on Twitter @LADFF
Leave us a comment and let us know what your GIMME THREE are from the year 2000!
Haley Bishop stars in the new horror film that has critics and fans raving, Host.
Host takes place during the global pandemic and was shot remotely. It follows six friends who accidentally invite the attention of a demonic presence during an online séance and begin noticing strange occurrences in their homes.
Haley and Nicholas discuss what it was like to film a feature film with a remote cast and crew and how their team was able to pull of some of their mind blowing practical effects and stunts. We do a deep dive on her impressive performance.
Host is available to stream now on Shudder.
If you’re looking for a good scare - look no further.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Emelie Claxton, the writer/director of the thriller Heather Would Never.
Heather Would Never follows Dani, a tired young woman who invents a sexy persona called Heather to tease her tactless boyfriend - until that persona starts acting out.
Emelie discusses the inspirations for her honest and eye-opening script. Her and Nicholas have a little too much fun chatting about Emelie’s Gimme Three!
You can follow Emelie here:
Website: https://www.emelieclaxton.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emelie.claxton/?hl=en
You can watch You Decide at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
Follow us at:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Website: www.ladff.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Taiki Sugioka, the director of the feature documentary, You Decide.
Logline: Months away from starting her first job, Kaede Hatashima discards her male form and begins her journey as a working transgender woman.
You can learn more about the film at:
Website: https://www.youdecide.jp/en
You can watch You Decide at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
Follow us at:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Website: www.ladff.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
LADFF festival director Sonja Mereu joins host Nicholas Ybarra in an episode dedicated to this year’s Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival, which will be available online for the first time ever.
Sonja and Nicholas each do a Gimme Three of their picks from this year’s LADFF program.
The Los Angeles Diversity Film festival is available online from August 4th - August 30th exclusively at LADFF.com
Follow us at:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Website: www.ladff.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Sasha Pasternak, the director of the gripping short film Make Me The Tennessee.
Logline: In 1983, when the vengeful Kathy Morris attempts to poison the Tennessee cop who aided and abetted in the death of her sister, she gets cold feet. After all, the cop is her husband.
Sasha and Nicholas discuss the powerful themes in her short and what is was like working with her incredible cast; Annika Marks and Chris Sullivan (This Is Us).
You can learn more about the film at:
Website: https://www.makemethetennessee.com
You can watch Make Me the Tennessee at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
Follow us at:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Website: www.ladff.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Hanna Mathis, the director of the documentary Wheels of Madness as well as the subject of the film Gal Mizrachi.
Wheels of Madness follows Gal to his favorite music festival, Sziget in Hungary, where he shows that everyone has the ability to find their passion in life.
Our guests discuss the making of this powerful documentary and how they are both coping without music festivals this summer.
You can follow Hanna & Gal:
Gal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galfestival/
Hanna Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannathemathis/
You can watch Wheels of Madness at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th August 30th.
August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
Follow us at:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Website: www.ladff.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Adriana Barbosa and Thiago Zanato, the directors of the mind-blowing short film La Flaca.
La Flaca follows Arely Vazquez, a transgender woman and leader of the Santa Muerte (Saint Death) Cult in Queens, New York. During her yearly celebration to the Bony Lady ("La Flaca" as she likes to call her), Arely faces life threatening challenges in order to fulfill a promise she made ten years ago.
Adriana and Thiago discuss their brilliant execution of docu-fiction, blending reality and surrealist filmmaking.
You can follow Adriana & Thiago:
Adriana Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chica_barbosa/
Thiago Website: http://www.thiagozanato.com/la-flaca
You can watch La Flaca at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
Follow us at:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Website: www.ladff.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Justin Andrew Davis, the writer/director and star of the thriller You Look Great.
You Look Great follows Peter. After secretly struggling with his weight for years, his body shame forces him to go further than before in pursuit of complete control.
The film is based off of Justin’s personal experiences, him and Nicholas discuss what is was like to prepare for the role and revisiting these tough moments in his past. We do a deep dive on his gripping, unsettling and necessary short film.
You can follow Justin here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinandrewd/
Website: https://www.justinandrewdavis.com
You can watch You Look Great at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com.
Follow us at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Website: https://www.ladff.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Michelle Gritzer, director of the wonderful comedy Do You Have A…?
Do You have A…? Tells the story of Amy, a timid people-pleaser who unexpectedly gets her period at her new job, she must learn to let go of her past and stand up for herself in order to obtain a tampon before her life (and her pants) are ruined.
Michelle and Nicholas discuss her masterful blend of comedy and drama and working with her stellar cast, including star Britt Baron.
As always, our guest helps us out with our favorite segment Gimme Three, providing three films that have inspired her work and her career.
You can follow Michelle here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mgritzer/
Website: http://www.michellegritzer.com
You can watch Do You Have A…? At the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
Follow us at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladiversityfilmfest/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LADFF/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LADFF
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Emil Gallardo, director of the gripping short film 1, 2, 3 All Eyes On Me.
1, 2, 3 All Eyes On Me follows a passionate teacher doing her best to manage her challenging class, suddenly finds herself trapped in a crisis that engulfs her elementary school campus, threatening the children in her care.
Emil and Nicholas discuss the difficulties in tackling the subject of mass shootings. We also dive into Emil’s very effective techniques for working with the child actors in his film.
As always, our guest helps us out with our favorite segment, Gimme Three, providing three films/shows that have inspired his work and his career.
You can follow Emil here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilg80/
Website: https://www.waterlightfilms.com
You can watch 1, 2, 3 All Eyes One Me at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
This month, Film Forward is highlighting filmmakers from the 2020 Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival.
In this episode, we interview Symone Baptiste, director of the hilarious short film, Sixteen Thousand Dollars.
Sixteen Thousand Dollars imagines a world in which reparations are given to African-Americans in the form of a check, which ultimately doesn’t amount to much. Symone and Nicholas discuss the necessity of reparations and the benefits of using comedy as a avenue of tackling important subjects.
As always, our guest helps us out with our favorite segment, Gimme Three, providing three films that have inspired her and her career.
You can follow Symone here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/symonejett/
Website: https://www.symonebaptiste.com
You can watch Sixteen Thousand Dollars at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
If you dig this episode, please subscribe and review.
In our first episode highlighting 2020 LADFF Filmmakers, we interview Jay Snow. He is the writer/director and star of the short film Flawd.
Flawd is a romantic comedy based on Jay’s personal experiences with Sickle Cell Anemia. In this episode, we discuss why it took for Jay this long to write about his history with the disease. We also discuss the challenges and triumphs with simultaneously directing and acting.
As always our guest helps us with our favorite segment Gimme Three; three films that have inspired Mr. Snow and his work.
You can follow Jay here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jsnowpro/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jsnowpro
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/jsnowpro
You can watch Flawd at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival from August 4th - August 30th at LADFF.com
If you dig the episode, please subscribe and comment.
Crip Camp is The Audience Award Winner at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. We were honored to be joined by the film's co-directors, Jim Lebrecht and Nicole Newnham.
The two filmmakers walk us through a detailed history of how the documentary was made and what it was like to premiere at Sundance. They also fill us in on some really fun behind the scenes stories.
Crip Camp is available to stream on Netflix.
The Wretched has found a happy home playing at Drive-In movie theaters all across the country. It has been the #1 movie three weeks in a row. The Pierce Brothers discuss what it's like to release The Wretched smack dab in the middle of a global pandemic.
We also do a deep dive of their impressive creature and their amazing practical effects.
If you are into horror movies or the wonders of indie-filmmaking, this is the episode for you!
Deniese Davis is an accomplished television producers who's shows include Insecure & The Black Lady Sketch Show. The two of us dissect the rise of HBO's hit comedy and explore how they've been able to keep their show consistent for four years and counting.
And as always, our guest hooks us up with a great Gimme Three in the final segment of the show.
New episodes of Insecure air Sunday nights on HBO. Insecure and Black Lady Sketch Show are available to stream on HBONow and HBOGo. Enjoy!
This week’s episode is a Re-Release of a episode we recorded back in October with filmmakers Elena Weinberg and Duncan Coe, they are co-directors of the film A Room Full of Nothing.
We are really happy to announce that the film has since gotten distribution, and is available NOW on soooo many streaming platforms.
A Room Full of Nothing explores isolationism, escapism and the complexities of modern relationships.
The story follow Phyillis, and Barry, as their world is unexpectedly turned upside down they discover that they are the last two people on Earth.
Watch it TODAY: Available to rent/buy on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, Vudu, FandangoNOW & many more...
Melissa Barrera stars in the award-winning television show, Vida and the upcoming Lin-Manuel Miranda produced film, In the Heights.
We discuss the upcoming third and final season of Vida which premieres April 26th on Starz.
Melissa also tells the amazing story of her long history with In the Heights, from super fandom of the broadway play to her incredible audition story, to working with the incredible cast and production team.
Alison Wong is a staff writer for the hit show One Day at a Time which is currently in it’s 4th season.
We chat with Ms. Wong about what it was like joining a writer’s room in the fourth season of a show. We also discuss how their entire team has had to adjust to the Covid-19 pandemic.
This is a great episode for aspiring writers and lovers of three-camera sitcoms! I will also add that Alison is hilarious - so if you like to laugh, this should be a fun thirty-five minutes.
One Day at a Time airs Tuesday nights on PopTV.
In honor of Women’s History Month, we bring you another Gimme Three episode. Each of us suggest 3 films we love directed by women.
Our guest of honor this week is LADFF Alumni Alle Hsu.
In the episode, Alle references her short film, Sophie that was shot in Honk Kong. Here's the link to Sophie.
If you take any of our film suggestions, let us know what you think in the comments section - or hit us up on Instagram @ladiversityfilmfest or on our Facebook page.
We are honored to be joined by Award-Winning Filmmaker, creative partner and dear friend Ryan Lacen (The Dust Storm, All The World Is Sleeping).
During these… “interesting” times of self-isolation and quarantining, the team at Film Forward wanted to help out by offering 3 amazing and poignant double features to check out while you are cooped up at home.
Enjoy the episode and let us know what you think of the movies!
For this episode of Film Forward, we decided to do something a little different. Each of our producers joins us as our guests as we all do a Gimme Three for 2019.
Check out this fun episode and listen to us discuss some of our favorites from last year, and if you choose to watch any of them (and we hope that you do), please let us know what you think by leaving a comment.
If you like this episode, please subscribe and share with your friends.
You can follow LADFF on Instagram: @ladiversityfilmfest
Kit Williamson is he co-creator, director, writer and star of the hit Netflix show - EastSiders.
Join us as we discuss the fascinating and inspiring backstory of this series. We do a deep dive on the show and it's themes and talk about the importance of diverse Queer content and representation.
As always, we finish the show with Gimme Three, Kit offers three EXCELLENT recommendations to our audience.
All 4 seasons of Kit's show EastSiders are available to stream on Netflix, and this episode is the perfect primer for your binge party!
In October, we sat down with Academy Award-Nominated Screenwriter Virgil Williams to discuss his film Mudbound and it's profound affect on audiences.
Virgil invites us into his writing process, offering keen insight for upcoming screenwriters. We also discuss his upcoming project wth director Denzel Washington, A Journal for Jordan.
Elena and Duncan discuss how their personal experiences as artists inform their debut feature film "A Room Full of Nothing."
Filmmaker Thiago Dadalt discusses his film Duke and what is was like adapting a true story into a narrative film. He also gives us three fantastic recommendations in our Gimme Three segment.
Duke is playing August 24th at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival. Tickets are available at LADFF.com
Behold! The greatest interview with a Gay, Asian, Musical Comedian from Canada that you will hear today! Kevin Yee joins us to discuss his career and his new movie About A Short Film.
Listen, laugh and enjoy! And if you dig this episode, come see Kevin's film at LADFF on August 24th. Tickets on sale now at LADFF.com
David & Marli discuss their film The Gospel of Combat and their relationship with it's subject, Sensai Ben Kiyaga. This short documentary was shot in Kenya and is a beautiful character study.
We're thrilled to screen it in the Doc Block at this year's Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival. Tickets available at LADFF.com
Natalie Rodriguez discusses her feature film debut, The Extraordinary Ordinary which has it's World Premiere at the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival on August 23rd.
Carly Usdin's latest short film Misdirection blends touches on unrequited love, obsessive compulsive disorder and... magic! The film sells itself but Carly does a pretty damn good job of selling it herself as well.
Join us as we talk about Misdirection and her comic book work.
Misdirectionwill also be playing Opening Night at LADFF, August 22nd. Tickets available at LADFF.com
We conclude our series on the LAdies Night films with Tayo Amos, director of the film On The Clock.
We talk with Tayo about she captured an authentic depiction of East LA and the important subject of period poverty.
Disfluency director, Laura Holliday joins Film Forward to the power of their film and her transition from comedy to drama.
This episode is part of our series on the films of LAdies Night - a special pop up screening hosted by LADFF on May 18th.
Comedic writer/director Emily McGregor joins us to discuss her film Café Abundance, a film that poses an important question - is everything bullshit?
This continues our series on the films of LAdies Night - a special pop up screening hosted by LADFF on May 18th.
Tickets available LADFF.com
Sara Karimipour joins us to talk about her film Hasti Joon and what is it was like growing up in the south as the only brown kid in her town.
Hasti Joon will be playing at LAdies Night - a special pop up screening hosted by LADFF on May 18th.
Tickets available at LADFF.com
We continue our series on the films of LAdies Night - a special pop up screening posted by LADFF on May 18th.
Tickets available at LADFF.com
Alexandra Hsu, the writer/director of the film Our Way Home chats with us about why she chose the 1960s as the backdrop for her film, and some of the more challenging elements of shooting a period piece.
This episode kicks off our series which highlights the films of LAdies Night - a special pop up screening hosted by LADFF on May 18th.
Tickets available now at our website
Adamma and Adane Ebo discuss their film Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul. We do a deep dive of the film, discuss the wonders of praise miming and what it’s like making a movie with your twin.
Filmmaker Sebastien Paquet joins us to discuss the release of his award-winning documentary "Mind Over Matter." The film profiles Brandon Mendenhall, who was born with cerebral palsy and overcame the disease to fulfill his dream of becoming a rock guitarist. The film won the Audience Award at last year's Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival and will be available on iTunes and Amazon through Sumerian Films on January 25th, 2019.
Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez discuss how "Quarter Life Poetry" went from a book of poems to being an FX mini-series as they rev up for their Sundance premiere. We also talk with Arturo about his award-winning music video "Say Something" for Justin Timberlake.
Producer Shannon Riggs chats with us about her new documentary The Smartest Kids in the World. We also discuss her Netflix docu-series The Innocent Man, her award-winning film Gleason, and the differences between narrative and documentary filmmaking.
Film Forward is for Cinephiles and by Cinephiles and it is the official podcast of the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival whose mission is to establish a true multicultural experience represented by the world's independent film community.
Join us as we chat with filmmakers who are working to make the film industry a more inclusive industry.
Film Forward is for Cinephiles and by Cinephiles and it is the official podcast of the Los Angeles Diversity Film Festival whose mission is to establish a true multicultural experience represented by the world's independent film community. In our first episode we chat with filmmaker America Young about her feature, The Concessionaires Must Die! We also discuss Barbie Vlogs, working with Stan Lee and her non-profit organization The Chimaera Project which is dedicated to empowering women in the film industry.