By Debbie Hall
Las Vegas steps into the global spotlight for bold, inclusive storytelling as the Nevada Women’s Film Festival (NWFFest) returns for its 12th year, March 19–22. Hosted by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Department of Film, the festival provides an opportunity for community members, filmmakers and industry professionals to connect through screenings, panels, networking events and diversity-focused celebrations.
This year’s edition features 72 films spanning genres and formats—from narrative features and shorts to episodic television—highlighting the festival’s commitment to evolving storytelling mediums. Programmer of the festival, Jennifer Dean, explained that adaptability is central to the festival’s DNA, appealing to industry professionals eager to see innovative work like the pilot of Maid to Shine by Nevada-based filmmaker Giovannie Espiritu.
“I think the fact that we have a strong and very specific mission has contributed to our longevity. We’ve been around now since before the #MeToo movement, and never once has it occurred to us that our work is finished. Women-led stories and strong female representation in media are vital, and for many of us, these stories are more relatable and engaging,” said Nikki Corda, Executive Director and Founder of NWFFest and Women in Film Nevada.
Innovation also takes center stage with Lolly Dagger Eats Sponge Cake, a feature by Aaron Brown that reflects Las Vegas from the perspective of a playwright protagonist. Documentaries such as Anxiety Club bring candid discussions of mental health into focus, featuring comedians Marc Maron and Eva Victor as they navigate anxiety in high-visibility careers.
Performance-driven storytelling remains a hallmark of NWFFest. Films such as Silly Little Wounds, directed by Vanessa Magowan Horrocks Powers, demonstrate how compelling ensemble work can elevate productions. Across the shorts program, audiences will discover emerging and established talent alike—from the youthful charm of Chikuwaccha! by Chieko Misaka to the nuanced performances in The Heart Exhibit by Zoe Malen and Sunny Yard by Trina Colon. International presence is also notable, with Before Dawn, starring acclaimed Korean actress Ae-sim Kang, from Hae-oh Park.
Panels will explore topics such as the “State of the Industry,” vertical filmmaking, and AI ethics, inspiring attendees to feel motivated to pursue innovation and growth. Community-building sessions led by Eccentric Artists, along with informal meetups and social events, foster collaboration and a shared sense of purpose.
The festival’s home at UNLV is central to its identity. Led by Dr. Heather Addison, students actively participate in all aspects of the festival—from logistics to engaging with filmmakers during Q&As —making them feel valued and part of a meaningful learning experience that bridges academia and industry.
Produced by Women in Film Nevada (WFN), the festival champions women and underrepresented voices across all aspects of filmmaking. While the program includes films directed by men, approximately 90 percent of this year’s selections are by women. As part of the global Women in Film & Television International Network (WFTIN), the organization continues to advocate for opportunities, mentorship, and industry access.
The Nevada Women’s Film Festival has evolved into more than a showcase—artistry, advocacy and community converge. For audiences and visiting filmmakers alike, it offers not just films, but a forward-looking vision of the screen industries.
For more information, visit nwffest.com and wifti.net. Parking information can be found at https://www.unlv.edu/parking/transporation/services/eventparking. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
