HIFF / October 4th: Programmer’s Picks | ‘Compassion, Justice & Animal Rights’ / Spotlight: Presence …

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PROGRAMMER’S PICKS

This series of short documentaries highlights our connection to our own bodies and to each other.
Full of heart creativity and curiosity, these stories are a great way to start off your first full day of screenings!”

— Anna Lawrence, Programmer

Saturday, October 5 | 10:45AM | Regal UA2

With filmmakers in Q&A: Rashida Jones (A SWIM LESSON), Lily Ahree Siegel (EQUAL PLAY), Jenny Schweitzer Bell and Brian Bell (THE PUZZLE PALACE)

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”What do you get when you pair one of America’s greatest directors (Steven Soderbergh) with one of the most successful screenwriters (David Koepp, JURASSIC PARK) of all time? A smart and elegant twist on a new homeowner’s worst nightmare, starring Lucy Liu.”

— David Nugent, Artistic Director

Sunday, October 6 | 8:00PM | EHMS
Tuesday, October 8 | 8:00PM | Regal UA1

With screenwriter David Koepp in Q&A for both screenings
Alec Baldwin scheduled to moderate the Q&A on 10/6

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COMPASSION, JUSTICE & ANIMAL RIGHTS

This Signature Program provides a platform for filmmakers to share stories of inspiration and tools for creating a safe and humane world for all living beings, encouraging dialogue about how we treat and view animals as a community

Zelda Penzel Giving Voice to the Voiceless Award
In this true story thriller, a heroic team of zookeepers and volunteers risk their lives to evacuate thousands of animals trapped behind enemy lines in the early days of the Ukraine War.

US Premiere
A thought-provoking exposé (or expawsé) that calls for a nationwide reflection on our treatment of animals. It also has lots of jokes and cute kittens.

Festival Favorite Award at Sundance

Terry Masear has a mission to single-handedly save every injured hummingbird in Los Angeles—a shining reminder that in the kindnesses towards delicate creatures, we all might find grace.