A Gathering of Gamers, Jailhouse Catharsis, and a Quest for Connection Among the Key Features of NFMLA's InFocus: Veteran Cinema

      A gathering of gamers, emotional revelations in a jail setting, and an immigrant's struggle to connect were some of the themes highlighted in the New Filmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) InFocus: Veteran Cinema program.

      The October NFMLA event also showcased the world premiere of writer-director Stephen Takashima’s feature film, Don’t Kill My Vibe.

      The day kicked off with October Shorts, an eclectic blend of comedy and drama, animation and live action, featuring reflections on belonging, self-expression, family dynamics, workplace conflicts, and ambitious dreams.

      It continued with the Veteran Cinema Shorts, which highlighted the skills of military veterans both in front of and behind the camera. The screenings included narratives centered on mental health, support, and community.

      The evening concluded with Don’t Kill My Vibe, Takashima’s directorial feature, which follows an eventful road trip undertaken by two old friends who find themselves in a perilous situation.

      NFMLA presents films by filmmakers from diverse backgrounds throughout the year, through both general and InFocus programming. Filmmakers are always invited and encouraged to submit their works for consideration in upcoming NFMLA Festivals, irrespective of the timeline for InFocus programming, which focuses on representation by showcasing various filmmaking communities as part of the NFMLA Monthly Film Festival. This initiative is partially supported by grants from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

      “The League Of Warriors,” directed by Daniel Jordan Montenegro

      About Daniel: Daniel Montenegro developed his love for cinema at a young age, inspired by the magnificence of film. Growing up in Phoenix in the 1990s, he faced limited resources and challenging industry connections. Ultimately seeking more opportunities, he joined the United States Army, which he believes enriched his life by introducing him to diverse individuals and forging lasting friendships. Daniel takes delight in all aspects of filmmaking, especially the collaborative work that brings a film to existence. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Film Production from The Los Angeles Film School and later pursued a Master of Fine Arts in Film Production from Full Sail University. His goal is to continually evolve as a director, creating narrative films that resonate globally.

      About “The League Of Warriors”: Sixteen of the world's elite gamers clash over two thrilling days at Palm Springs’ renowned League of Warriors, competing for fame, prestige, and honor.

      Watch the NFMLA interview with Daniel Montenegro, director of “The League Of Warriors”:

      “Don’t Kill My Vibe,” directed by Stephen Takashima

      About Stephen: Stephen Takashima is a celebrated director and editor based in Los Angeles. Known for his human-centered storytelling and ability to blend genres, his work has been featured in Oscar-qualifying film festivals, including the Chicago International Film Festival and Hollyshorts. He is currently involved in editing a documentary feature titled Totem Bridge, while also writing his second narrative feature and seeking future collaborations.

      About “Don’t Kill My Vibe”: While on a road trip, two estranged friends discover they have unintentionally been transporting drugs, reigniting unresolved tensions.

      Watch the NFMLA interview with Stephen Takashima, director of “Don’t Kill My Vibe”:

      “Homeward Dawn,” directed by Alysha Daniele Haran

      About Alysha: Alysha served in the Navy for seventeen years, viewing it as an opportunity to succeed despite feeling out of place, while learning to accept her unchangeable traits. Although she faced rejection from her peers and superiors for her creativity, it often became her greatest asset. The journey to find her place in the world and understand her connection to others has instilled in her insights about human nature. Through failures, she learned to stand up for herself and those who are different. Her voice as a storyteller stems from her quest for the common thread uniting all people. Despite her varied experiences, each one has equipped her for directing, a role in which she finally feels she can authentically express herself. It’s a culmination of over 40 years of hard work, for which she is grateful.

      About “Homeward Dawn”: A long night in jail triggers a cathartic change and a fresh start for a veteran haunted by his painful past.

      Watch the NFMLA interview with Alysha Daniele Haran, director of “Homeward Dawn”:

      “Unqualified,” directed by Shaghayegh (Sherry) Rashidan and Ilhan Abdullahi

      About Shaghayegh: Shaghayegh Sherry Rashidan is a Filmmaker and Animation Production Coordinator located in Vancouver, Canada. Her recent projects include coordinating for films such as Night at the Museum (2023), Young Love (2023), and Netflix’s Wonderoos (2024). Outside her animation work, she enjoys collaborating with storytellers and artists to bring engaging Muslim narratives to the screen.

      About Ilhan: Ilhan Abdullahi