Schools at the Festival

Middle School: Grand Prize – Charlie Thompson

(2024 Nellie Wong Magic of Movies Essay Contest)

Imperfect. Ugly. Idiot. Lame. All of these are words used to discriminate, bully, and hurt women. Overused. Loser. Pick me. Stupid. These are all words used to harm me by the people I trusted. While it has been months since I was hurt, I will not forget. How could someone I thought of as a best friend hurt me? Adults expect children and teens to see the best in everyone, give second chances, and be respectful to those around them. How am I supposed to be all those things when others aren’t? How can I be those things when the same adults who tell people to be those things side with the bullies? Broken. Bruised. Unwanted. Worthless. These words are equally as horrible. They signify the way many girls feel after being bullied. Bullies crumble at girls’ self-worth leaving them with a fragment of what they had in the past. Girls with their heads hung low walking around school environments. These are supposed to be “safe spaces” so why aren’t they safe?

She Creates Change. The empowering film is full of stories of girls overcoming challenges caused by their community. Naifat is a girl in Tanzania who takes action in her community through music. Like me, she believes that music has the powerful capability to bring people together in times of need, celebration, and heartbreak. I write music to empower people of any gender, race, or sexuality. Last year was one of the hardest for me socially. I decided to write music about my experience. Music about the experience of being put down by those you trust. The feeling of running back to people that hurt you to “preserve a friendship”. The feeling of not being able to set boundaries and say “no”. I presented my song titled “Falling” at my school talent show. It was the first time I felt safe enough to share my art with my community. The possibility that my music would not be appreciated by my peers and community was present. But the response was perfect. My friends encourage me to be as creative as I can get. To embrace my differences, and what makes me special. To not block out, but help those who bully become better people. They encourage me to create change.

Song Lyrics
Watch the Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3yQmE_U2YQ

V1
G Am
Broken silence words compiling
F
Why can’t we fight back
G Am
If you know you need to stand up
F
Why do they attack

Pre chorus:
C
Why don’t we just come together
Em
We can make this whole world better
Dm
Why don’t we just rejoice
C
Summer, fall in warmer weather
Em
Is lt that hard to realize
Dm
We all cry tears of glitter

Chorus:
G F
It’s hard sometimes,

But that’s alright
G F
Because we. will. Rise

And stand to fight
Am
Bro, ken silence
G
Its not fine
Am G
Because you know that we all cry
G
We all cry
Am
we all cry
F
we all cry

Tears of glitter

V2
G Am
Bruises scars and friendships broken
F
Risking everything
G Am
You know you can’t stay outspoken
F
Not for another day

Chorus:
G F
It’s hard sometimes,

But that’s alright
G F
Because we. will. Rise

And stand to fight
Am
Bro, ken silence
G
Its not fine
Am G
Because you know that we all cry
G

We all cry
Am
we all cry
F
we all cry

Tears of glitter

Outro
C
So speak out
F
Speak now
C F
Over everything wrong
C
Speak out
F
Speak loud
C Em F
And you will create change
C Em C
And you will create change

Elementary School: 2nd Runner-Up- Kaya Harrington

(2024 Nellie Wong Magic of Movies Essay Contest)

On Friday, April twenty-sixth, I visited SFMOMA to watch the SFFilm special, Billy + Molly: An Otter Love Story. I must say, I was deeply intrigued by this film. It showed me how beautiful a film could be. There were many things the filmmaker did to impress me. One of them was the way he put the documentary together. Whilst I watched the documentary, it felt more like a story than a documentary because the filmmaker found a true story so unique. It would never have occurred to me to find something so phenomenal, so blissful.

One thing that the filmmaker did to captivate me was the cinematography. From the countless panoramas of the Shetland Isles to the Otters frolicking in the surf to the beautiful underwater kelp forest, he was an expert in this. I cannot wait to see another production by him.

Another way he impressed me was the way he sectioned the story. One moment, I was feeling ready to cry, and then I was laughing. To me, a good film is dependent on how they section it. All the transitions felt smooth and natural.

In conclusion, Billy + Molly: An Otter Love Story captivated how beautiful life can be. From the first scenes to the final curtain, Charlie Hamilton James left me feeling contentment and wonder, and it took a while to clear my head of pounding thoughts. I would not hesitate to give it five out of five stars.

Elementary School: 1st Runner-Up – Malia Paige

(2024 Nellie Wong Magic of Movies Essay Contest)

I’m going to be talking about a movie called “Self.” I can relate to the main character because
she is African American like me, and sometimes she goes through some struggles of fitting in and sometimes I’m like that too. I am very glad there is a movie that I can relate to because sometimes I go through feeling like I don’t fit in. The main character changes to be like the other people who are golden. She changes by looking like them, but then she realizes it’s better to be herself instead of trying to be another person. Sometimes I have tried to change myself to be like other people, but then when I found the movie “Self” I understand it’s better to be me than somebody else. I can relate to that so that’s why I’m so happy that they made that movie that I can relate to. Watching Self made me think, “Oh it’s just better to be me and it’s always better to be me,” so to the creators who made that movie, I’m very thankful that you made that movie so I can finally relate something. I finally have some friends who just can accept me and also finally I don’t have to be like them. Actually I never had to be like them in the start, it’s always better to be me. And my lesson is no matter what it’s always best to be yourself

Elementary School: Grand Prize – Lani Martinez-Sun

(2024 Nellie Wong Magic of Movies Essay Contest)

You’ve probably felt so insecure about yourself at least once in your life. Maybe you are still insecure to this very day! Maybe it’s how your voice sounds, maybe it’s how you look, how you dress, your religion, your sexuality, your gender, your culture, your eyes, teeth, mouth, ears, hands, nose, body weight, hair, body shape, financial situation? Or even your own skin color..? In this essay you will truly be inspired by the beautiful film called ‘Self’ because many can relate to being self conscious about being different.

‘Self’ conscious
First you will see a joyful and excited woman walking up the steps of an underground place which is most likely to be a subway. Then you will notice she is different from everyone else, all the other people are shiny, golden, and, well, beautiful. Does that mean that she’s not beautiful..? Well she didn’t seem to care or even think about that! At least, before she tried to interact with the other golden, perfect, people. When she attempted to say hi to them, they completely ignored her! It was almost like she wasn’t even there. The eager smile on her face turned into a frown when she realized that they were ignoring her, and that she was somehow not as important, not as visually appealing, not as good as them.

Losing yourself
The confused, sad wooden woman was now sitting on the roof of a tall building. As she looked over, she saw a golden hand. She ripped off her old wooden hand and replaced it with the new perfect one. Little by little, she starts discarding her old body parts for new shiny, “better” ones. It all seems perfect because she felt accepted, and seen. At least until she realized that this was not her true self.

Observations
Something that I observed was that there is a racial component to this film. The main character is black and dressed in traditional looking clothing. Her skin is wooden, and her clothing looks handmade. On the other hand, the others have shiny gold skin and are dressed in blue modern machine made synthetic clothing. The subtext of this movie to me is that they are discriminating against her for her appearance and ethnicity.

Conclusion
In conclusion, everybody is insecure about something whether it’s their appearance, status, or abilities. But it is never wrong, or bad. It is beautiful and your own self.

2024 Schools at the Festival Program

Since 1991, SFFILM’s Schools at the Festival outreach program has created a vital connection between the annual San Francisco International Film Festival and the local educational community, providing students of all ages the opportunity to experience stories from around the world.

The Schools at the Festival program introduces students ages 6 to 18 to international film and the art of filmmaking while promoting media literacy, deepening insights into other cultures, enhancing foreign language aptitude, developing critical thinking skills, and inspiring a lifelong appreciation of cinema.

2024 In-Person Program

Please submit all Schools at the Festival ticket orders online here. Act soon, programs fill up quickly!

Alemania

Directed by María Zanetti, Argentina/Spain, 87 min
In Spanish with English Subtitles

THU APR 25 12:30 – 2:30 PM | MARINA THEATRE

María Zanetti’s vivid debut feature, inspired by her own family’s story, tells the story of Lola, a 16-year-old who dreams of escaping her challenging home life. Lola struggles with school and driving lessons but the mental illness of older sister Julieta presents greater challenges. Julieta consumes their parents’ time and money, leaving Lola often ignored, at constant odds with her mother, and dreaming of a different life. Maite Aguilar makes an indelible screen debut as a young woman yearning for refuge and security in this complex drama that drifts between a teen’s inherent need to embark on her own path and the difficulties her parents face in meeting the disparate needs of their daughters. Striking cinematography further enhances this vibrant coming-of-age tale, the winner of Best Director and Best Screenplay prizes at Cine Ceará – Ibero-American Film Festival.

Suggested Subjects: Coming of Age, Latin American Studies, Mental Health, Spanish

Recommended Grades: 8–12

Program Note: This film contains brief profanity and brief teen alcohol/smoking use.

The Art & Science of Lucasfilm: Star Wars: The Bad Batch

Program Running Time: 120 min
TUE APR 23 12 – 2 PM | PREMIER

Star Wars: The Bad Batch concludes its third and final season this spring on Disney+. The series follows the elite and experimental clones of the Bad Batch as they find their way in a rapidly changing galaxy in the immediate aftermath of the Clone War. What is it like to be a part of the creative team working on such a beloved show? To help us pull back the curtain we will be joined by a talented lineup of guests: Concept Designer Dawn Carlos from the Design Dept., Storyboard Artist Daniel Rosales from the Story Dept., Sr. Color Key Artist Molly Denmark from the Lighting Concept/Matte Dept., and Generalist Artist Miguel Perez from the Lighting/FX Dept.. This marks the 15th year of our collaborative educational series with Lucasfilm, a program that demonstrates the intersection of art, science, and technology in the entertainment industry, all while making connections to current STEAM curriculum. Guests share their expertise in a behind-the-scenes, interactive multimedia presentation and participate in an in-depth discussion and Q&A.

Suggested Subjects: Art/Media, Career Path Training, Computer Science, English Language Arts, Math, Science

Recommended Grades: 6–12

Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story

Directed by Charlie Hamilton James, UK, 78 min

FRI APR 26 10 – 11:45 AM | SFMOMA

In a place where land ends and the sea takes over – Scotland’s Shetland Islands – an orphaned otter washes up against Billy and Susan’s isolated jetty. At first utterly dependent on the couple for her survival, the “wee girl” they name Molly quickly captures hearts with Billy particularly besotted. This irresistible documentary spins a tale of love and longing in its depiction of the emotional bond between Billy and the playful creature. The melancholic man finds joy, a new connection to the natural world, and purpose in caring for Molly and preparing her for independent life. Billy & Molly delves deep into the workings of the human (and otter) heart, becoming a rumination on what it means to give and receive love, and questioning the limits of how far one can or should go in its pursuit. The answer, like the seas that surrounds the Shetlands, is eternal and fathomless.

Suggested Subjects: Art/Media, Biology, Journalism, Marine Science, Mental Health

Recommended Grades: 4–12

Counted Out

Directed by Vicki Abeles, USA, 89 min

WED APR 24 12:15 – 2:15 PM | MARINA THEATRE

In the United States, math is a gatekeeper. In an increasingly algorithm-and-data driven 21st century, assumptions made about a child’s mathematical ability affect their odds of finding future success with those already suffering under systemic racism, patriarchy, and/or the cycle of poverty and incarceration presumed to have fewer skills. This revealing and urgent documentary weaves together a mosaic of voices and stories across generations and professions to explain the detrimental effects of declining math skills on civic participation, legal rulings, and fulfilling careers. Further, the film challenges and demystifies mathematics education and an equation of inclusion is solved when the idea that only some of us can be “math people” is divided by zero – not allowed.

Suggested Subjects: Career Path Training, Computer Science, Economics, Journalism, Math, Peer/Youth Issues, Social Justice, Social Studies

Recommended Grades: 6–12

Dìdi (弟弟)

Directed by Sean Wang, USA, 90 min
In English and Mandarin with English Subtitles

THU APR 25 1:30 – 3:30 PM | SFMOMA

Sean Wang’s auspicious, semi-autobiographical feature debut centers on a universally recognizable phase of adolescence — that moment we begin the lifelong process of self-determination. Set in 2008 Fremont, this Sundance audience award winner follows 13-year-old Taiwanese American Chris (Izaac Wang) in the fleeting months prior to freshman year as he clumsily pursues his first crush, nurtures his passions for filming and skating, and experiments with the dawning intensity of online relationships via AIM chat and MySpace. Chris’ college-bound sister Vivian (Shirley Chen) and weary mother Chunsing (an illuminating Joan Chen) annoy him, while his acerbic grandma Nai Nai (Chang Li Hua, the director’s real-life grandmother) can do no wrong. All three women draw his ire as Chris stumbles through a series of hilarious coming-of-age situations. Nuanced and tender, Wang’s film is a layered exploration of learning to love oneself against the Darwinian backdrop of teenage cliques, cultural conformity, and the maddening frustrations of growing up.

Suggested Subjects: Art/Media, Asian American Studies, Coming of Age, Drama/Acting, English Language Arts, Peer/Youth Issues

Recommended Grades: 9–12

Program Note: This film contains profanity, brief teen alcohol/smoking use, and brief violence.

Girls State

Directed by Amanda McBaine, Jesse Moss, USA, 96 min

THU MAY 2 12:30 – 2:30 PM | SFMOMA

From Apple TV+ and award-winning filmmakers Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss, a follow-up of their 2020 hit Boys State (SFFILM 2020) asks the thought-provoking question, what would American democracy look like in the hands of teenage girls? Similar to programs throughout the country, the American Legion Auxiliary Missouri Girls State, established in 1940, empowers young women across Missouri by providing immersive experiences in civic engagement, leadership, and public service. Filmed during the summer of 2022, soon after the monumental overturning of Roe v. Wade, Girls State is a political coming-of-age story and a powerful reinterpretation of what it means to govern. Utilizing the deft observational skills of the filmmaking team, we closely follow a handful of the approximately 500 passionate and fiercely intelligent young female leaders, as they collaborate and overcome different political backgrounds to build a government from the ground up, form a Supreme Court, and debate the divisive issues of the day.

Suggested Subjects: Activism, Career Path Training, Journalism, LGBTQ+ Studies, Peer/Youth Issues, Political Science, Religion, Social Studies, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 6–12

Program Note: This film contains brief profanity.

Mabel

Directed by Nicholas Ma, USA, 84 min

SAT APR 27 5 PM – 7 PM | VOGUE THEATRE

Biracial Callie (Lexi Perkel) loves trees and plants and little else in Nicholas Ma’s warm debut feature. Surly with her parents and intolerant of people who don’t share her interest, she’s also unhappy about changing schools after her family relocates. But as luck would have it, substitute teacher Ms. G (Judy Greer) is starting a botany unit in science class, and Callie wangles her way in. Held rapt by Ms. G’s lectures and online speeches, Callie develops an experiment raising chrysanthemums in darkness and manages to lure Agnes, her ebullient younger neighbor, into working on the project with her. Precocious, determined, and wryly funny, Callie is an unique protagonist who leverages her love of botany to propel herself into adolescence.

Suggested Subjects: Asian American Studies, Biology, Career Path Training, Coming of Age, Drama/Acting, Science, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 3–8

Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa

Directed by Lucy Walker, USA, 98 min
In English, Nepali, and Sherpa in English Subtitles

FRI APR 26 6 PM – 8 PM | MARINA THEATRE

A heroine hides in plain sight as a dishwasher in a Connecticut Whole Foods in Lucy Walker’s astonishing documentary. The film tells the inspiring story of Lhakpa Sherpa, the first Nepali woman to conquer Mount Everest and survive. Walker captures this elite athlete’s life as she prepares for a tenth summit – a new record for women mountaineers. The world knows her from her top-of-the-world exploits but Walker’s portrait reveals a range of seemingly insurmountable challenges that Lhakpa manages to transcend. At this “low altitude,” the mother of three endures the hardscrabble challenges as an immigrant and single parent. Through it all, she perseveres, finding purpose in both daily and historic accomplishments. Mountain Queen shines a deserving spotlight on Lhakpa’s unyielding determination and spirit as it brings her incredible saga to triumphant heights.

Suggested Subjects: Asian Studies, Health, Journalism, Physical Education/Sports, Social Studies, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 7–12

Program Note: This film contains brief swearing and mentions of domestic violence.

Puffin Rock and the New Friends

Directed by Jeremy Purcell, Ireland, 79 min

MON APR 29 10 AM – 12 PM | MARINA THEATRE

Cartoon Saloon, the renowned Irish studio known for their beautifully crafted hand-drawn animation, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. SFFILM has showcased their 2D masterpieces all the way back to their first feature. This new film builds upon the world created in their award-winning preschool TV series of the same name, and brings back family favorites Oona, Baba, May, and Mossy. With visually stunning designs and vibrant colors, each frame of the film honors the lush natural beauty of the Irish coast while also featuring powerful themes of belonging, friendship, and courage. When the last Little Egg of the season disappears under mysterious circumstances, Oona and her new friends race against time to bring the Little Egg home before a big storm hits Puffin Rock, putting the entire island in danger.

Be sure to bring paper and pencils to draw along with guest Jeremy Purcell during the Q&A.

Suggested Subjects: Art/Media, Biology, English Language Arts, Environmental Science, Marine Science

Recommended Grades: K–3

Program Note: This film contains mild peril.

Ru

Directed by Charles-Olivier Michaud, Canada, 116 min
In French and Vietnamese with English Subtitles

FRI APR 26 12:15 – 2:35 PM | SFMOMA

Ten-year-old Tinh’s family flees Vietnam after the 1975 fall of Saigon, undertaking an arduous journey to Quebec in Charles Oliver-Michaud’s gripping adaptation of Kim Thúy’s award-winning novel. As Tinh works through the trauma and memories of war and forge an identity in Canada, her educated, formerly wealthy family struggles to adapt to their new circumstances as refugees. Tinh overcomes her shyness to learn a new language, find her voice, discover an unfamiliar culture and adjust to life in Quebec. Chloé Djandji is riveting as Tinh in a drama that combines a harrowing recreation of the family’s flight from Vietnam, striking cinematography, vivid flashbacks, and a compelling narrative to create a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of healing told from the powerful perspective of a young girl coming to terms with her past.

Suggested Subjects: Art/Media, Asian Studies, Coming of Age, Drama/Acting, English Language Arts, French, History, Immigration, Mental Health

Recommended Grades: 7–12

Program Note: This film contains brief violence and depiction of war.

She Creates Change

Directed by Martha Adams, USA, 55 min
In English and multiple languages with English Subtitles

WED APR 24 10 – 11:30 AM | MARINA THEATRE

The challenges facing young women in historically low-income communities are illuminated through a unique combination of animated shorts followed by live-action documentaries in She Creates Change, a series in collaboration with Room to Read, a global education nonprofit promoting gender equality. The narratives of six courageous young women from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam display the unique obstacles that each faces, including sexism, colorism, low self-esteem, climate change and how they seek to overcome these obstacles using their educational skills. Each story explores how the young women overcome societal expectations and advocate for themselves while exploring universal themes of leadership, collaboration, critical thinking, resilience and dignity.

Suggested Subjects: Activism, African Studies, Art/Media, Asian Studies, Career Path Training, Journalism, Peer/Youth Issues, Science, Social Studies, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 4–12

Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin

Directed by Raymond S. Persi, Canada, 39 min

THU APR 25 11 AM – 12:15 PM | SFMOMA

From Apple TV+, the timeless Charlie Brown universe, and co-written by cartoonist Robb Armstrong. The origin story for one of Peanuts’ most beloved characters follows Franklin as he moves to a new town and navigates making friends. Franklin, the first Black character in Peanuts, was introduced in 1968 as a response to the assassination of MLK Jr, as a way to embrace positive representation in popular media. Everywhere he goes Franklin finds support in a notebook filled with his grandfather’s advice on friendship but when Franklin tries his usual strategies with the Peanuts gang, he has trouble fitting in. That’s until he learns about the neighborhood Soap Box Derby race. He’s sure that winning the race will also mean winning over some new friends. Franklin and Charlie Brown work together to build a car and in the process become good buddies. But as the race nears, the pressure mounts — can their car and newfound friendship make it to the finish line?

Be sure to bring paper and pencils to draw along with guest Robb Armstrong during the Q&A.

Suggested Subjects: African American Studies, Art/Media, English Language Arts, Peer/Youth Issues

Recommended Grades: K–5

From Fact to Fiction

Total Running Time: 70 min

MON APR 29 10 – 11:45 AM | SFMOMA

This striking collection of shorts explores the imaginative and thought-provoking range that film as a medium can showcase. Topics traverse immigration and family secrets, the freedom to choose one’s path in teenagehood, and an athlete’s Olympic dreams. This selection by brilliant filmmakers telling stories from around the world features narrative, documentary, and animated films utilizing craftful scripts, stunning cinematography, and collaged animation to create a delightful assortment of some of the best that the SFFILM Festival has to offer.

Titles are listed alphabetically rather than in order of play.

Boat People
Directed by Thao Lam, Kjell Boersma, Canada, 10 min
A second-generation daughter conceptualizes her parents’ journey from Vietnam through the movement of ants.

Choices
Directed by Kameishia Wooten, USA, 12 min
Under the bleachers of a Los Angeles high school, three friends reflect on their decisions surrounding pregnancy and motherhood, and the freedom to choose their path.

Don’t Look Down
Directed by Ilanna Barkusky, USA, 8 min
A serious brain injury dashed Kiana Davis’s dream of competing in the Olympics. Who is an athlete when they can no longer perform? Confronted with that question, Davis finds a new dream and sense of purpose.

Muna
Directed by Warda Mohamed, UK, 19 min
In English and Somali with English Subtitles
Teenage Muna balances the fear of missing out on adventures with friends with learning how to care for her family as they grieve a lost loved one long-distance.

Rizoo
Directed by Azadeh Navai, Iran/USA, 16 min
In Farsi with English Subtitles
New to Tehran, Rizoo feels out of place but as she adjusts to life in a new country, she finds comfort in different moments around town.

Where Do Ideas Come From?
Directed by Joysi Olijhoek, Netherlands, 5 min
Let your ideas run wild as this exploration of found footage and spoken word helps us to make creative connections and playful discoveries.

Suggested Subjects: African American Studies, Art/Media, Asian Studies, Coming of Age, Health, Immigration, Middle Eastern Studies, Muslim Studies, Peer/Youth Issues, Religion, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 6–12

Program Note: This program contains brief adult themes.

Shorts 5: Family Films

Total Running Time: 68 min

THU APR 25 10 – 11:45 AM | MARINA THEATRE
TUE APR 30 10 – 11:45 AM | SFMOMA
THU MAY 2 10 – 11:45 AM | SFMOMA

Wondrous and whimsical shorts from near and far corners of the world grace our festival screen for the enjoyment of the entire family. The latest from Tonko House, Pixar, and independent filmmakers share central themes of innovation and curiosity. A wooden puppet embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she questions whether or not she fits in, while a mother-daughter rodeo duo connects to their roots and legacy. Explore where ideas and inspiration come from in thought-provoking found footage and experience the charming, and maybe a little gross, feelings of a young first kiss. These enchanting stories – true, not-so-true, and animated – are sure to inspire laughter, curiosity, tears, and awe in both the youngest and most seasoned filmgoers.

Titles are listed alphabetically rather than in order of play.
Battery Mommy
Directed by Seungbae Jeon, South Korea, 8 min
In Korean with English Subtitles
Mommy charges in to save the day in this so-cute-I-could-die follow-up to Jeon Seung-bae’s electrifyingly entertaining Battery Daddy, the 2023 Festival’s Shorts: Family Film Golden Gate Award winner.

Bottle George
Directed by Daisuke ‘Dice’ Tsutsumi, Japan/USA, 13 min
A mischievous cat and a young girl facing family troubles meet an unusual creature in this latest short from the award-winning studio Tonko House.

Coach Pancake
Directed by Gabriel Olson, USA, 6 min
Former soccer star Andres, lovingly named “Coach Pancake” by his students, finds his calling training six-year-olds to find their superpowers on and off the field.

Dynasty and Destiny
Directed by Travis Lee Ratcliff, USA, 7 min
Their passion for rodeo and the weight of their family’s legacy in the sport bind together mother-daughter duo Kanesha and Kortnee.

A Little Beetle Returns
Directed by Elene Sebiskveradze, Georgia/Norway, 4 min
Through elaborate and colorful designs, a beetle goes on a wondrous journey to get to the outdoors.

Little Fan
Directed by Sveta Yuferova, Shad Lee Bradbury, Germany, 5 min
In this charming animation, a small curious fan has an unexpected encounter that grows into a meaningful friendship.

Self
Directed by Searit Kahsay Huluf, USA, 7 min
After wishing upon a star, a wooden woman desperate to fit into the shiny world embarks on a journey of self-love in this latest from Pixar.

Yuck!
Directed by Loïc Espuche, France, 13 min
In French with English Subtitles
Yuck! Ew! Kissing on the mouth is gross but during a summer camping trip, little Léo secretly wants to try.

Suggested Subjects: African American Studies, Art/Media, English Language Arts, French, Latine Studies, Peer/Youth Issues, Physical Education/Sports, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: K–6

Program Note: A film in this program contains brief depictions of alcoholism.

Shorts 6: Youth Works

Total Running Time: 78 min

MON APR 29 12:30 – 2:15 PM | SFMOMA
TUE APR 30 12:30– 2:15 PM | SFMOMA

Youth Works celebrates and spotlights young filmmakers from within the Bay Area and as far across the globe as Ukraine and rural China. With works encompassing out-of-this-world visual effects, innovative hand-drawn animation, and intimate interviews, these young filmmakers do not shy away from pushing boundaries and displaying their talent. Through their unique viewpoints, we peek into their communities, adolescence, and the growth and transformation that happens in early adulthood. From tales of fantastic journeys, radical self-acceptance, and feminine power, to understanding one’s culture and identity, these films introduce us to an up-and-coming group of cinematic voices carrying us one short at a time into the next generation of filmmaking.

Titles are listed alphabetically rather than in order of play.

Comma
Directed by Sonia Leliukh, Ukraine/Germany, 4 min
Enter into a striking animated portal of Ukrainian people living their everyday lives despite the tragedies of war.

FATALE
Directed by Kayen Manovil, USA, 4 min
Through music, enchanting nature, and movement, explore a vibrant meditation on the power and joy of teenage femininity.

Gentle Breeze
Directed by Wenwei Hu, China, 4 min
An old man, a young boy, and a bunch of balloons take a fantastic journey through rural China.

like a stone or flower
Directed by Kaiya Jordan, USA, 10 min
Three Bay Area Asian American artists across generations reflect on the ability of art to transcend rationality and logic.

Majid, the Muslim Rapper
Directed by Kea Morshed, USA, 10 min
In Oakland, an up-and-coming Muslim rapper struggles to balance his faith with the provocative nature of his song lyrics.

Make Art, Reese!
Directed by Mika Lim, USA, 8 min
Hoping to make a masterpiece, a young artist explores the meaning of art and rediscovers why he creates in the first place.

Maps
Directed by Esmé Nix, USA, 8 min
Two best friends navigate high school as explorers, discovering new lands. When they find no island where they fit, they learn to change course.

Puppet Back Up
Directed by Maxwell Downer, UK, 9 min
In the streets of Southampton, England, two artists create interactive giant puppet theater shows to create understanding and community dialogue surrounding climate issues.

Sil-tteu-gi
Directed by Yezy Suh, USA, 5 min
In Korean with English Subtitles
Growing up 6,000 miles away from her grandparents, a young Korean-American reflects on lost family stories and the culture uprooted from her life.

Substratum
Directed by Harvey Abrahams, Australia, 7 min
Isolated and surrounded by power, a young boy attempts to change the path of his dictator father. Will peace prevail or will he succumb to his family’s history?

Weathered
Directed by Patrick Jang, USA, 9 min
Three teenagers openly share their personal stories of struggle and transformation that allowed them to embrace self-acceptance.

Suggested Subjects: Activism, Art/Media, Asian American Studies, Career Path Training, English Language Arts, Mental Health, Muslim Studies, Peer/Youth Issues, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 7–12

Program Note: This program contains profanity and brief mentions of abuse.

2024 Schools At The Festival Online Programs

Counted Out

Directed by Vicki Abeles, USA, 89 min

Pre-recorded Q&A with registration

Screening link(s) will be sent to view film at your convenience. Viewing window April 22-29.

Suggested Subjects: Career Path Training, Computer Science, Economics, Journalism, Math, Peer/Youth Issues, Social Justice, Social Studies

Recommended Grades: 6–12

Farming While Black

Directed by Mark Decena, USA, 75 min

Pre-recorded Q&A with registration

Local filmmaker, Mark Decena, explores the rise in Black and BIPOC-owned farms, following the story of independent Black farming in the United States from its historical roots in the early 1900s to a current rising generation of farmers led by Leah Penniman at Soul Fire Farms. The height of Black-owned farms peaked at 14 percent in 1910 and has dwindled to less than 2 percent today. Reclaiming their rightful ownership to land, Leah, as well as fellow farmers and organizers, sow the seeds of reconnection to ancestral roots and the knowledge of African agrarianism. Their mission is to nurture Black community wealth & health by investing in Black agricultural systems in the Northeast and South. The documentary blossoms into themes of urban farming, revolutionary justice, and sustainable agricultural heritage.

Screening link(s) will be sent to view film at your convenience. Viewing window April 22-29.

Suggested Subjects: Activism, African American Studies, Biology, Career Path Training, Environmental Science, History, Political Science, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 6–12

Program Note: This program contains brief historical imagery of violence.

Madu

Directed by Matt Ogens, Joel Kachi Benson, USA / UK / Nigeria, 101 min
In English and Igbo with English subtitles

Pre-recorded Q&A with registration

Anthony Madu was first discovered in a short viral video clip, joyfully dancing barefoot in the rain. 12-year-old Anthony soon leaves his family and community in Nigeria to study at one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world in England. Having never left his home outside of Lagos, Anthony finds himself thrust into a new world where his wildest dreams are suddenly within reach. His courageous journey is a story of extraordinary obstacles as he searches for belonging and acceptance, a family far away, and unexpected challenges that could impact his future. Forming a rich and immersive tapestry told on multiple continents, directors Matt Ogens and Joel Kachi Benson introduce the world to a boy chasing a dream of inspiration that will resonate with us all in this Disney+ original documentary.

Screening link(s) will be sent to view film at your convenience. Viewing window April 22-29.

Suggested Subjects: African Studies, Art/Media, Career Path Training, Dance, Health, Journalism, Mental Health, Peer/Youth Issues

Recommended Grades: 4–12

Porcelain War

Directed by Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev, Ukraine / USA / Russia, 90 min
In English and Russian with English Subtitles

Pre-recorded Q&A with registration

When forced from their home in Crimea, husband-and-wife artists Slava and Anya, their faithful dog Frodo, and dear friend Andrey, reclaim their destiny as they choose to stay in Ukraine and fight. Setting aside their civilian life and past selves, Slava and Andrey join a special ops unit on the frontlines, while Anya makes delicate porcelain art amid constant bombing. Made in partnership with US based co-director Brendan Bellomo, these first time film collaborators steel themselves against the atrocities of war by cherishing spring blossoms, lifelong friendships, and long walks through their beautiful, ravaged country. It is rare for a documentary to capture a war unfolding in real time with such lucidity, while also transcending the immediacy of violence to celebrate the indomitable power of the human spirit. Buoyed by a passion for living and charming animated sequences, this Sundance Documentary Grand Jury prize-winner vividly depicts the human need to create and compulsion to survive.

Screening link(s) will be sent to view film at your convenience. Viewing window April 22-29.

Suggested Subjects: Art/Media, Journalism, Political Science, Social Studies

Recommended Grades: 10 –12

Program Note: This program contains brief profanity and violent war footage.

She Creates Change

Directed by Martha Adams, USA, 55 min
In English and multiple languages with English Subtitles

Pre-recorded Q&A with registration

Screening link(s) will be sent to view film at your convenience. Viewing window April 22-29.

Suggested Subjects: Activism, African Studies, Art/Media, Asian Studies, Career Path Training, Journalism, Peer/Youth Issues, Science, Social Studies, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: 4–12

Shorts 5: Family Films

Total Running Time: 68 min
WED MAY 1 10 – 10:45 AM PT | FOR ONLINE Q&A

Screening link(s) will be sent to view film at your convenience. Viewing window April 22-29. Recording of Q&A will also be sent to registered teachers.

Titles are listed alphabetically rather than in order of play.

Battery Mommy
Directed by Seungbae Jeon, South Korea, 8 min
In Korean with English Subtitles

Mommy charges in to save the day in this so-cute-I-could-die follow-up to Jeon Seung-bae’s electrifyingly entertaining Battery Daddy, the 2023 Festival’s Shorts: Family Film Golden Gate Award winner.

Bottle George
Directed by Daisuke ‘Dice’ Tsutsumi, Japan / USA, 13 min
A mischievous cat and a young girl facing family troubles meet an unusual creature in this latest short from the award-winning studio Tonko House.

A Little Beetle Returns
Directed by Elene Sebiskveradze, Georgia / Norway, 4 min
Through elaborate and colorful designs, a beetle goes on a wondrous journey to get to the outdoors.

Little Fan
Directed by Sveta Yuferova, Shad Lee Bradbury, Germany, 5 min
In this charming animation, a small curious fan has an unexpected encounter that grows into a meaningful friendship.

Self
Directed by Searit Kahsay Huluf, USA, 7 min
After wishing upon a star, a wooden woman desperate to fit into the shiny world embarks on a journey of self-love in this latest from Pixar.

Yuck!
Directed by Loïc Espuche, France, 13 min
In French with English Subtitles
Yuck! Ew! Kissing on the mouth is gross but during a summer camping trip, little Léo secretly wants to try.

Suggested Subjects: African American Studies, Art/Media, English Language Arts, French, Latine Studies, Peer/Youth Issues, Physical Education/Sports, Women and Gender Studies

Recommended Grades: K–6

Program Note: A film in this program contains brief depictions of alcoholism.

Shorts 6: Youth Works

Total Running Time: 78 min

WED MAY 1 12:30 – 1:15 PM PT | FOR ONLINE Q&A