BIFF Shorts: Next Gen

Thoughtful and fun, teen made shorts. BIFF partners with Squeaky Wheel Film & Media Art Center and their advanced track Teen Council students to review submissions, and curate and organize this screening. 67 minutes.

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"The Reasons"

Kendric Warrick (Dir.), 2 minutes, USA, World Premiere

Director Kendric Warrick in attendance.

Focused on the concept of time and how perspectives change (and sometimes people do) as time progresses. Poem by Isabella Lamberty.

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"Yesterday"

Issrat Prova (Dir.), 5 minutes, USA, World Premiere

An ode to living life to the fullest.

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"Feminine Screams of a Forced Saga"

Ericka Palmer (Dir.), 3 minutes, USA, World Premiere

Director Ericka Palmer and Poet James Dwuznik in attendance.

Visuals of flowers accompany a poem about becoming a women. Poem by James Dwuznik.

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"{Hidden, Soul & Confession}"

Roja Khanam (Dir.), 1 minute, USA, World Premiere

Director Roja Khanam in attendance.

A deep meaningful connection to the inner parts of our soul.

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"Badges & Batons, Guns Drawn"

Mo Hill (Dir.), 5 minutes, USA, World Premiere

Poet Lilly Goines in attendance.

Focusing on the enduring issue of police brutality and gun violence, this video uses motion and lighting to evoke a sense of sickness in the realization of how long the list goes for the victims of this issue. Poem by Lilly Goines.

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"Awakening"

Nusrin Sultana (Dir.), 2 minutes, USA, World Premiere

This film is about finding light through yourself as you go out and explore your surroundings. Life can be dark, but you have to find the light at the end of the tunnel.

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"Dead Birds and Chained Nations"

Cole Chapels (Dir.), 2 minutes, USA, World Premiere

A poem about just how fast the present moves past us. Poem by Zelda Abramovich.

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"The Box"

Willow Dilweg (Dir.), 5 mintutes, USA, World Premiere

Director Willow Dilweg in attendance.

A deft examination of female identity, bodily autonomy, and the existence of dolls.

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"DMV"

Zelda Abramovich (Dir.), 3 minutes, USA, World Premiere

Director Zelda Abramovich, Chief Editor Ike Nnuji, Technical Director Harlem Crowell, and Storyboard Artist Emma Arrigennain attendance.

This stop motion short exhibits a playful take on the experiences in the world of adults.

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"Our Flags, “New Glory”

Kim-Jimi + Dr. Lisa Spencer (Dir.), 10 minutes, USA, East Coast Premiere

Students at Amy Biehl Community School make flags that represent themselves, their cultures, their communities, and their land.

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“Too Fast”

Annika Wilewicz (Dir.), 7 minutes, USA, World Premiere

Following a heated argument at a party, Josh confronts his treatment of his best friend, Charlotte. As Josh delves into therapy and grapples with haunting flashbacks, he uncovers the truth: Charlotte died that fateful night, leading him on a journey of self discovery and acceptance.

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"Histoire d’amour de l’ombre / Shadow Love Story"

Liya Mena (Dir.), 5 minutes, USA, Western New York Premiere

Director Liya Mena in attendance.

A tragic Love story that highlights topics such as mental health, substance abuse and death through narrative shadow play.

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"Drifters in Beijing"

Jiaxi Li (Dir.), 15 minutes, China/USA, East Coast Premiere

Following Mr. Feng, a diligent delivery driver, and his family as they navigate the challenges of living on Beijing's outskirts. Despite their efforts, their non-resident status limits access to essential services, creating significant obstacles. By following their daily struggles, from managing finances to ensuring their children's education, this short documentary offers a touching glimpse into the resilience, hopes, and harsh realities of migrant workers striving for a better future.

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"Need A Light?"

Jillian Smith (Dir.), 1 minute, USA, Western New York Premiere

Director Jillian Smith in attendance.

A lighter is needed. A new friendship is formed.

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Presented in partnership with Journey's End WNY Refugee Film Festival and Squeaky Wheel Film & Media Art Center.