Indie Short Film Festival

The Indie Short Film Festival returns for its third iteration, bringing 132 films, panel discussions, and cultural programming to five downtown venues. With a full slate of domestic and international shorts—including 20 with Virginia connections—the festival showcases independent storytelling. This year’s programming includes timely takes on AI- and tech-induced issues (AI Jesus, 2025; Deb and Joan, 2025; Howl, 2024; Robotomy, 2024), and timeless explorations of grief (Beyond the Journey, 2025; Farewellday, 2024; Mourning Meal, 2021; Synthesize Me, 2025; VIENNA: Suddenly An Angel, 2025), along with fun, funny, expressive, and experimental works across genres. Prices, times, and locations vary. indieshortfilmfestival.net

Free news is good news!

Nearly $1 million a year goes into the work you’re reading—covering local government, spotlighting the arts, and telling the stories no one else does. If you value that, help fund it for $10 a month (or whatever tax-deductible gift you can afford). Click to save the free word.