Films onscreen at the 2025 LAFCF. Courtesy photo
Filmmaker Mario Ghabali, director of the Lebanese film, ‘Far From It’ during a Q&A with the audience at last weekend’s 2025 LAFCF. Courtesy photo
By BERNADETTE LAURITZEN
A small group of resolute board members, sponsors, vendors and volunteers came together last weekend to give Los Alamos another signature event – the second annual Film and Cultural Festival (LAFCF).
Twenty short films, documentaries and features were viewed and winners were selected from both a national and international pool. LAFCF President Sandy Jones said she was pleased with the collaborations, which garnered success for the community. What was her favorite moment? The answer wasn’t easy, but it most certainly included seeing the joy of attendees.
“Some of the films are so inspirational and moving, it makes the work of the year worthwhile,” Jones said. “If I had to only pick one film, it would have to be Ultimate Citizens. The main character of the story, Jamshid, is my new hero. He has sown so much good into the world, a truly remarkable man.”
Another delightful twist at the event was a joint venture with Sweet & Savory. The bakery prepared baked goods that represented each country participating in the festival. The treats were provided free of charge at each viewing.
The next touch of sweetness was the volunteer time donated to everything from promotion to set up, clean up and more. Project volunteers included Fred Jones, board members Athena Mathis, Paige
Ryan, Yuri Findlay and Jones. Volunteer film judges included Andy Wright, Ryan, Mitchell Jones, Cathy Brewer and Jones.
Jones credits the many vendors who provided prompt and professional services; keeping the schedule rolling along on time. SALA personnel Allan Saenz, Magaly Veleta Mendoza and staff, physical awards creator Richard Ronquillo, New Mexico Office Products, Sweet & Savory Bakery and Pi Pizzeria.
Gold Sponsor of the event was Los Alamos County, with additional sponsorship provided by Los Alamos Commerce & Development Corporation, Dr. Frederick and Sandy Jones and Los Alamos Mainstreet & Creative District.
The quality of the films was amazing and what can be communicated in a short film format was astounding.
“To create a nuanced story in 15 minutes that is engaging and interesting is something I just don’t know
how they do it,” Jones said. “The filmmakers move heaven and earth to get their films out there and we were honored to have so many great films submitted, and even a U.S. premiere.”
The participating filmmakers, whose work is unforgettable, and without whom LAFCF would not have a festival, were able to engage their new American friends during Q&A sessions. Audience members spoke
directly to a variety of directors asking questions that came to light after the viewing.
“Our audience really enjoyed asking in-depth questions of them and the filmmakers appreciated the thoughtful questions,” Jones said. “They create a whole world and draw you into it, and then to have
the chance to find out their process or that it is based upon a true event in their lives adds so much to the experience.”
2025 Los Alamos Film and Culture Festival national and international award winners:
- Best Editing – Vas Mar (Iran)
- Best Cinematography – Vas Mar (Iran)
- Best Screenplay – Camino (United States)
- Best Director – Francine Strickwerda, “Ultimate Citizens”
- Best Short Film – Vasomotor Rhinitis (Country of Georgia) Prize $2,000
- Best Feature Film – Ultimate Citizens (United States) Prize $2,000
- Best Documentary – Sergio Dondoli’s Happy Life (United Kingdom) $2,000
- Best Student Film – Menstrual Narratives (United States) $500
Congratulations and thank you to all those behind the films selected for screenings!
Flags and awards displayed on a table at the 2025 LAFCF. Courtesy photo
LAFCF attendees Lucas and Sobia Sayeda selecting international treats. Courtesy photo