The Chesapeake Film Festival (CFF) will take place October 8-10 throughout historic Easton, celebrating the power of stories, voices and action. The festival brings audiences together through extraordinary films, diverse voices and stories that inspire connection, conversation and change.
The three-day festival will present an exciting selection of 47 independent narrative and documentary films from filmmakers near and far, with special programming highlighting the environment, Maryland stories, the arts, and extraordinary individuals whose lives and work inspire audiences.
Highlights include:
Thursday, October 8 | 5:00 p.m. | Ebenezer Theater | 17 S. Washington Street, Easton
Dream, Touch, Believe – Maryland Premiere
The Festival opens with the inspiring story of Native American sculptor Michael Naranjo, who lost his eyesight as a young Vietnam War soldier. Despite his blindness, Naranjo became an internationally acclaimed artist whose sculptures are displayed in museums, the White House, the Vatican, and private collections worldwide. Both the subject of the film, Michael Naranjo, and the director will be present for the Q&A following this presentation.
Documentary Feature | 85 min. | USA. Directed by Jenna Naranjo Winters.
Friday, October 9 | Ebenezer Theater, 17 S. Washington Street, Easton
Show Business – Maryland Premiere
This American comedy follows a screenwriter who moves from New York City to Los Angeles with his fiancée and quickly discovers that balancing a career in show business and a relationship is easier said than done. Q&A with the director following the film.
Narrative Feature | 84 min. | USA. Directed by Alexander Tovar.
Frozen Frames: Murphy’s Yellowstone – Maryland Premiere
Photographer Tom Murphy ventures deep into Yellowstone’s winter wilderness to document wildlife and advocate for the preservation of the Park’s wild places.
Environmental Short | 27 min. | USA. Directed by Allison Argo.
Lifeblood: Chesapeake River Stories
This timely film explores the waterways that shape the Chesapeake Bay and the communities of people who live, work, and play throughout its watershed. Q&A following the film with director Sarah Sampson.
Spotlight on Maryland. Environmental Feature | 59 min. | USA. Directed by Sarah Sampson.
Friday, October 9 | Talbot County Free Library | 100 W. Dover Street, Easton
Heartbeat Behind The Badge
This powerful documentary follows law enforcement officers, retirees, and surviving family members as they participate in a 300-mile bicycle journey during National Police Week to honor those who have died in the line of duty.
Documentary Feature | 95 min. | USA. Directed by Vickie Warehime.
Saturday, October 10 | Ebenezer Theater, 17 S. Washington St.
Couture to the Max
At just nine years old, fashion prodigy Max Alexander fearlessly fuses his boundless imagination with an unwavering commitment to sustainability, inspiring us to dream boldly and act responsibly.
Documentary Short | 35 min. | USA. Directed by Dori Bernstein.
Saturday, October 10 | Academy Art Museum | 106 South Street, Easton
Lasting Impressions
This engaging portrait of renowned printmaker Dan Welden explores his creative journey and the enduring importance of art, featuring insights from contemporary artists including Eric Fischl and Kiki Smith. Q&A with artist Dan Welden following the screening.
Documentary Feature | 59 min. | USA. Directed by Carl Welden.
Founded in 2008, the Chesapeake Film Festival celebrates the power of independent film to entertain, educate, empower, and inspire diverse audiences. The festival presents compelling films and engaging conversations while highlighting stories that explore the environment, women’s achievement, social justice, student filmmaking, and the many experiences that connect us as a community and as a world.
For the full slate of festival films and to secure your Early Bird and VIP tickets visit www.chesapeakefilmfestival.com.
