8 NFMLA Filmmakers Reflect on Their Path to Sundance

      This year's Sundance showcased 18 individuals who received early opportunities through NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA), a nonprofit advocating for emerging indie filmmakers.

      Through monthly festivals that often spotlight underrepresented perspectives, NFMLA—under the leadership of executive director Larry Laboe—offers many filmmakers their initial connection to industry professionals and opens doors to prospects like distribution, representation, and, indeed, Sundance. NFMLA also hosted an insightful panel at this year's final Sundance, where panelists encouraged filmmakers to build friendships and alliances to navigate challenging times.

      We take pride in sharing interviews with distinguished NFMLA members every month, along with reflections from NFMLA alumni who presented films at Sundance 2026, the “Last Dance” to be held in Park City before the festival relocates to Boulder next year.—M.M.

      JOYCE LIU-COUNTRYMAN

      Producer of the 2026 Sundance short “Taga”

      When did you make your first film? 2008

      How has NFMLA assisted you on your journey as a filmmaker? NFMLA has made me feel valued as a storyteller and artist. They are the ones who mention your name when you’re not present—and even when you are—and remind you that your talent is significant and legitimate. They serve as a remedy for our imposter syndrome.

      Was this your first Sundance? How did you feel about being selected, and what effect has it had? This is the first one where I've held the position of above-the-line producer. The experience has illuminated the warmth and openness of the Sundance community, allowing me to realize that it is not elitist, but rather supportive and grounded. They maintain high standards for a reason, but once you've met those standards, it shows you just how much higher you can aspire to.

      What’s next? We're developing “Taga” into a feature, and I've just applied to the Sundance Features Producing Lab with an insightful psychological thriller from my slate of projects currently in development that reflects the post-Me Too era.

      LOUISE BARRETTO

      Producer of the 2026 Sundance short “Taga”

      When did you make your first film? 2022

      How has NFMLA facilitated your journey as a filmmaker? NFMLA showcased a short I produced and consistently creates opportunities for filmmakers to connect. They’ve established a robust community for filmmakers. Filmmaking doesn’t occur in isolation; we all require a strong support network, and Larry and the rest of NFMLA ensure that support continues.

      Was this your first Sundance? How did you feel about being selected, and what impact has it had? Honestly, getting into Sundance was completely unexpected. There were 11,000 submissions and only 54 shorts were accepted. It’s an incredible honor to be part of the “Last Dance at Sundance” lineup, and I am grateful to the wonderful Sundance programmers for supporting new filmmakers. A special acknowledgment to Shorts Programmer Irene Soriano for consistently backing Filipino-American creators.

      What’s next? I aspire to work on a feature, but in the meantime, I’m focused on collaborating with directors with distinctive voices. I have several shorts in development!

      MIREIA VILANOVA

      Producer of the 2026 Sundance shorts “Living with a Visionary” and “Once in a Body”

      When did you make your first film? 2017

      How has NFMLA supported you on your journey as a filmmaker? Back in 2019, while I was a graduate student at USC, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association (now the Golden Globe Foundation) granted me a one-year student membership to NFMLA. It provided an invaluable opportunity for someone like me, who had recently moved to L.A., to meet filmmakers, view intriguing films, and most importantly, cultivate a community.

      Was this your first Sundance? How did you feel about being selected, and what impact has it had? I was fortunate to co-produce "By Design," which screened at the festival last year. However, this year was particularly special as I was able to present two projects in competition. Notably, “Living with a Visionary” received the Jury Award for Animation, an outcome we definitely didn’t anticipate. While it may be early to discern the career impact of this award, I hope to learn about it soon.

      What’s next? I have two features premiering this year: "Sender," starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Britt Lower, which will debut at SXSW, and "Moonfish," my first animated feature, debuting at the Venice Film Festival as part of Biennale College Cinema.

      WILLIAM D. CABALLERO

      Director and co-writer of the Sundance 2026 feature TheyDream

      When did you make your first film? 2009

      How has NFMLA been instrumental in your journey as a filmmaker? NFMLA has provided invaluable resources such as panels and networking events, which significantly boosted my confidence as an emerging Latino filmmaker.

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