June 11, 2024

The FILMteenth International Film Festival, a Juneteenth holiday film festival, is relocating to Pasadena for its upcoming edition.

Established in 2021, the festival has rapidly gained prominence for showcasing diverse stories that highlight the contributions and experiences of people of color in America.

Juneteenth is a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.  It marks the day on June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas finally learned they had been freed, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.  The name “Juneteenth” combines “June” and “nineteenth” to represent this historic date.  

Originally celebrated with prayer, feasting, and the singing of spirituals, Juneteenth has become an annual tradition recognizing African American freedom, achievements, and resilience. 

The festival, originally based in Washington, D.C., will now call the Los Angeles area its home, providing filmmakers with increased exposure and networking opportunities.

“We are thrilled to bring FILMteenth to Pasadena and immerse ourselves in the vibrant community that calls this city home,” Will Gorham, the festival’s director, said in a statement. “We believe that Pasadena, with its proud history and the hometown of Jackie Robinson, provides the perfect backdrop for our festival to continue celebrating the diverse voices that make up the fabric of our American experience.”

The upcoming edition of FILMteenth will coincide with the Juneteenth holiday on June 19 and feature a rich lineup of documentaries and historical shorts highlighting Black American experiences and culture.

One standout film, “Underwater Projects,” offers a unique perspective on the potential impact of climate change on Tidewater, VA communities.

Several filmmakers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) will also make their L.A. debuts during the festival.

Another highlight is the documentary “Civil War Colored Troops | Courage. Determination. Survival,” which sheds light on the extraordinary contributions of formerly enslaved Black soldiers who enlisted in the Union Army.

The festival will also introduce a light and fresh take on clean comedy with “Of The Comics,” a series in which Black comedians share their stories and experiences through stand-up.

The two-day festival will kick off on June 18th at Landmark Theaters Pasadena, formerly the Laemmle Playhouse 7, with an opening night film, followed by all-day screenings on the Juneteenth holiday.

The festival will conclude on the evening of June 19 with its signature jazz-themed Awards Garden Party, which also serves as the traditional Filmteenth Awards/Father’s Day Garden Party.

The festival will be available for global streaming via the Eventive platform from June 18-21.

Tickets for the FILMteenth International Film Festival go on sale June 1st and must be purchased online through the official website, www.FILMteenth.org. 

The festival’s mission is to showcase the best films from around the world, celebrate diversity, and inspire audiences to explore new perspectives.

“FILMTEENTH is a celebration of American excellence and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in film, history, arts, entrepreneurship and STEM.”

Gary Johnson interviewed Will Gorham in June 2023.  Click on the video below to watch that interview.