NFMLA's InFocus: Counter-Ageism Initiative Features Stories of Change and Camaraderie - MovieMaker Magazine

      Films exploring life changes, dinner party mishaps, and actress Sally Kirkland were among the standout features of NewFilmmakers Los Angeles's recent InFocus: Counter-Ageism program.

      The festival opened with January Shorts, a compilation of comedic, supernatural, dramatic, and documentary pieces that delve into connections and conflicts across neighborhoods, cultures, and generations.

      The InFocus: Counter-Ageism program showcased protagonists who actively embrace life, celebrate their relationships, navigate transitions, address intergenerational trauma, and move through a society with strict notions of aging, all while pursuing their passions. The narratives spotlight filmmakers whose works challenge aging stereotypes.

      The program concluded with Sallywood, the debut feature of writer-director Xaque Gruber. This heartwarming comedy, inspired by a true story, follows a young actor arriving in Hollywood and forming a friendship with his idol, actress Sally Kirkland, known for her roles in Andy Warhol's factory productions and films like The Haunted and Bruce Almighty, where she portrays herself.

      “I hope my story with Sally resonates with audiences, conveying that true friendship can pave the way to success at any age,” Gruber expresses.

      NFMLA presents films by creators from diverse backgrounds year-round, encompassing both general and InFocus programming. Filmmakers are invited to submit their projects for consideration for future NFMLA Festivals, regardless of the schedule for InFocus themes, which celebrates diversity and inclusion by highlighting filmmaking communities as part of its monthly agenda. This initiative is partially funded by the National Endowment for the Arts.

      Here’s additional information about the filmmakers and their works.

      “Apolitical,” directed by Mishu Hilmy

      About Mishu: Mishu Hilmy writes, directs, and produces a variety of films in Chicago, where he endures harsh winters. He has previously lived in New York (both Brooklyn and Binghamton), New Orleans, and Whitewater, Wisconsin. His production company, OHH MAYBE, has created several short films, a web series about dishwashing, and occasional quirky social media content.

      About “Apolitical”: A lively dinner party takes a turn when attendees realize the host is out of touch with the news.

      Watch the NFMLA interview with Mishu Hilmy, director of “Apolitical”:

      “Lillo,” directed by Andrea Figueroa Chavez

      About Andrea: Andrea Figueroa Chavez is a filmmaker and production designer, graduating Summa Cum Laude from the New York Film Academy and is a Gold Rising Program alumna at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in the Production Designers Track. With a nomination for Best Production Design at the Burbank International Film Festival, she creates narratives that extend beyond standard storytelling. Her short film “Lillo” received praise at BFI Future Filmmakers and Dances with Films. Andrea’s set designs, featured in Harper’s Bazaar, demonstrate her ability to craft immersive visual settings that explore cultural richness and human experiences artistically.

      About “Lillo”: Following his father's passing, a young boy channels his sorrow into resilience by using his imagination to complete the harvest.

      Watch the NFMLA interview with Andrea Figueroa Chavez, director of “Lillo”:

      “Sunchong,” directed by Yoontaek Hong

      About Yoontaek: Yoontaek Hong is a filmmaker from Seoul and Los Angeles, who graduated in Creative Nonfiction Production from California State University, Long Beach. He focuses on realistic stories of everyday people, capturing lyrical moments through his lens.

      About “Sunchong”: An 89-year-old Korean immigrant volunteers at a senior center, reflecting on his life alongside his beloved wife.

      Watch the NFMLA interview with Yoontaek Hong, director of “Sunchong”:

      “Ghosts in the Blood,” directed by Raphael Buisson Enlas

      About Raphael: Raphaël Buisson Enlas is a French director, producer, and cinematographer from Paris, now based in Los Angeles. He has directed and written two feature films: Stardust (2019) and The Optimist (2022). He has also directed numerous short films and commercials and worked on projects for Netflix, 20th Century Studios, Canal+, and TF1. His films commonly explore themes such as existentialism, free will, alienation, and dreams. Raphaël holds a Bachelor’s Degree from King’s College London and a Master’s Degree from USC in Film & TV Production.

      About Isaac Cruz: Isaac Cruz has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from The American Musical & Dramatic Academy. He became a member of Actors Equity Association through off-Broadway performances in New York City and later joined SAG-AFTRA as a guest and co-star in various television shows. He has also appeared in several feature and short films and performs music under the name D.X. Machina, available on all streaming platforms.

      About “Ghosts in the Blood”: A genetics professor navigates personal and professional challenges when he accidentally