Upcoming: FilmFest showcases short films by women

REDLANDS, Calif. — The spotlight will shine on the creative works of women filmmakers at the upcoming FilmFest, a fundraising event organized by the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Redlands Branch.

Scheduled for April 19, the event aims to celebrate and elevate the voices of women in cinema, offering a diverse selection of short films designed to captivate audiences of all backgrounds.

FilmFest features short films by women - for everyone, according to event organizers. The films cover a range of themes from environmental issues, to high school sports and gender issues, said Kathryn Brown, AAUW FilmFest committee member.

"While the films are not necessarily women-only issues they are told from a woman's angle," explained Brown.

This is the first year the AAUW Redlands is hosting its own film festival. The films chosen by the selection committee run between 8 - 18 minutes and celebrate the ideas, accomplishments and perspectives of women. 

All the films chosen for the FilmFest will showcase the work of female directors, writers, and/or producers who might not otherwise be seen.

"A lot of these filmmakers haven't had the opportunity to have their film seen before a large audience," said Brown. Many of the films will include an introductory message from the filmmaker.

Supporting education for women and girls: The event serves as a fundraiser for the AAUW Redlands Branch Mission Fund which advances equity for women and girls through education, advocacy and empowerment. Funds are used for scholarships, prizes for the AAUW speech program, and to send local college students to the National Conference for College Women Student Leaders in Washington, DC.

FilmFest event details: The evening will commence with a reception at 5:45 p.m. in the Esri Cafe, where attendees can enjoy heavy hors d'oeuvres, wine, beer, and desserts.

Following the reception, guests will be ushered into the Esri Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. for a screening of eight short films carefully curated to resonate with the audience of AAUW members.

Moving forward: Tickets for the event are priced at $50 per person, plus Eventbrite fees, with all proceeds going towards supporting the AAUW Redlands Branch Mission Fund.

Those interested can find ticket information here.