Anchorage International Film Festival Welcomes New Board Members and Exciting Categories

AIFF Welcomes New Talent and Categories for 25th Anniversary

The Anchorage International Film Festival (AIFF) celebrated a significant milestone with the announcement of new board members and categories aimed at promoting diverse storytelling. As the festival gears up for its 25th anniversary, there's a renewed commitment to inclusivity and authentic representation in film.

Recently, Princess Daazhraii Johnson and Kelly Moneymaker were welcomed onto the board of directors. Johnson, a talented Alaskan Native writer, producer, and actress, is recognized for her roles in HBO’s True Detective: Night Country and PBS Kids’ Molly of Denali. Moneymaker, who received the AIFF Humanitarian Award in 2024, is the Owner of Alaska-based Drum Song Films, known for her compelling documentary, Drum Song: The Rhythm of Life.

Both Johnson and Moneymaker share a deep passion for storytelling and uplifting Alaska's unique culture, promising exciting developments for the festival.

New Categories for Creative Voices

To mark this anniversary, AIFF has unveiled several new categories that seek to broaden the universe of independent filmmakers:
1. iPhone Super Shorts: This new category encourages filmmakers to produce short, under six-minute films using only an iPhone. Emphasizing creativity over budget, it captures the spirit of grassroots filmmaking. According to Festival Director Adam Linkenhelt, “The iPhone Super Short is about democratizing cinema, giving everyone the opportunity to share their story.”

2. Music Video Category: AIFF aims to create a vibrant space for both musicians and filmmakers. This category showcases the artistry of music videos, inviting entries that blend sound and visuals in innovative ways. It encourages participants who have taken creative risks in music videos to submit their works.

3. Native Voices Showcase: In response to the success of last year's showcase, AIFF continues to highlight Indigenous filmmakers from various tribes worldwide. This platform is dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and supporting underrepresented voices, enriching the cinematic landscape.

Director Pat McGee expressed the importance of these new categories, stating that they reflect AIFF’s commitment to fostering a creative community. They aim to provide a platform for both emerging and seasoned filmmakers, helping them connect and inspire one another.

Celebrating 25 Years of Bold Cinema

As the festival prepares to celebrate its 25th year this December, AIFF is encouraging submissions from filmmakers, particularly those who have been quietly creating impactful narratives. Submissions are now open on Film Freeway, highlighting AIFF's ongoing mission to cultivate a space for all storytellers.

This year's festival promises not only to celebrate the legacy of independent cinema but also to pave the way for future storytellers who embody the spirit of Alaska’s rich cultural mosaic. The AIFF team eagerly anticipates a December filled with bold new visions and powerful stories from both local and international filmmakers, supporting the very essence of what independent cinema represents.

In conclusion, the Anchorage International Film Festival is setting a precedent for inclusivity and creativity within its community. The new board members and categories not only enhance the festival's mission but also open doors for meaningful representation, ensuring that every voice has a chance to be heard. Be part of this vibrant cinematic journey and share your stories with AIFF!