Amy Williams
Program Director & Lead Programmer
“In such a turbulent year, getting to program for NFFTY and draw inspiration and motivation from the work that our filmmakers share has been an experience I’ll value forever. I am so excited to celebrate each and every film and filmmaker at the festival this year. A collection of stunning stories that make me excited for the future of film, here are a few of my highlights.”
Amy’S PICKS:
PRACTICE
Opening Night Showcase
Moira Fett - 23, Kerry LaVielle - 24, Lucy Adams - 24 | New York
“One of the very first films I screened for NFFTY this year, and an instant favorite. Director Moira Fett builds this dystopian world with simplicity and sophistication, letting the audience situate themselves quickly and focus their full attention on the incredible young talent on screen. A thoughtful exploration of curiosity, shame, and conformity — I found myself holding my breath until the end.”
IN-BETWEEN(S)
Saturday Night Shorts
Anissa Amalia - 24, Heather Garcia - 23, Ben Cher - 24 | California
“In director Anissa Amalia’s own words, this docuseries pilot is ‘an ode to self-discovery and finding place within their own roots,’ and there’s no better way to describe it. There’s so much vulnerability and honesty on display; I’m in awe of artists like Anissa who pour so much of themselves into their work. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing their story, and I would binge-watch an entire series of this in a heartbeat.”
BREASTMILK
Call Your Mother
Roxy Sorkin - 19, Christina Xing - 21, Sophia Heriveaux - 20, Eve Robitshek - 19, Brian Niles - 20 | California
“A love letter to director Roxy Sorkin’s own mother, the love between the mother daughter duo in this film is almost palpable. Sorkin masterfully walks the line between drama and comedy and hits all the right emotional beats, making you feel like you just consumed a full feature film. Looking to laugh? Looking to cry? This film has you covered.”
NUMBER 2
All Hours Absurdity
Cal J.T. Moreno - 21, Francisco Serna - 21 | California
“Despite this film being about someone definitely not having a great time at all, this film is such a great time! The satisfying triad of genuine human connection, chronic illness awareness, and clever music cues makes this one worth a watch…or two.”
MISFITS
Closing Night: What Do You Stand For?
Ciani Rey Walker - 21, Alexa Cha - 22, Taylor Johnston - 22, Micaela Edwards - 22, Jerry Hu - 22 | California
“A gripping story that unfolds with so much care and intention, you know you’re in the hands of a very capable director. Timely, compelling, and important — I can’t wait to see what’s next for Ciani Rey Walker.”