Another film festival is gearing up as Cinema St. Louis, the organization behind QFest, returns to the Hi-Pointe Theatre for the 26th Annual St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase, featuring nearly 70 films from local filmmakers.
Running from Friday, July 17, through Sunday, July 26, the festival will also offer a variety of filmmaking workshops, Q&As following select screenings, and several networking sessions.
The theme for this year’s festival is “A Shared Light,” reflecting the collective spirit that continues to fuel St. Louis filmmakers and their remarkable work. Cinema St. Louis Festival Director Emmett Williams said, “Year after year, St. Louis artists push boundaries and capture the true heart of our film community.”
Expanding on the theme, Williams added, “We thrive because we build together, cultivating an environment rich in mentorship, collaboration, and mutual support. This showcase proves that when we share our light, we show the world exactly who we are.”
There is an impressive variety of talent in this year’s lineup, but a few films may be of particular interest. Those with an ear to the ground may have heard that comedian Iliza Schlesinger was working on a film in St. Louis last summer. That project, Chasing Summer, directed by award-winning filmmaker Josephine Decker, will serve as the festival’s opening feature.
The festival will conclude with Gangland, starring Lou Diamond Phillips as a weathered tribal police officer tracking a vengeful ex-con. The film is produced by local filmmaker Cole Payne. Between these two features is a wide range of shorts and documentaries that offer numerous perspectives and subjects for audiences of all kinds.
Personally, the short film collections are always my favorite and feel like such a treat during these festivals. One short in particular offers a unique take on the queer experience.
Ronita Rambo, directed by Michael Doshier, follows a waitress in a rural Missouri diner. While she may have everyone’s order memorized, she draws a blank when trying to compose a text to her new crush. Enlisting the help of two gay teens, she is encouraged to take a leap toward love and authenticity.
The film’s exploration of queer allyship and friendship is especially compelling. It thoughtfully bridges what can sometimes feel like a divide between heteronormative and queer love stories. Not to rebrand the old “Love is Love” slogan, but… romance is romance. And sometimes, all you need is a little nudge from a friend to move in the right direction.
Ronita Rambo will be part of the “Narrative Shorts 2 – A Genuine Place to Land” program, screening July 19 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets and additional information can be found here.
If you find yourself with some free time and an affinity for exploring the work of St. Louis’ talented filmmakers, consider checking out a screening—or perhaps even a workshop. Who knows? Your interest in film may be only the beginning of your own creative journey, one that could someday lead to your work becoming part of this impressive and celebrated lineup.
