Feature film ‘Never Not Yours’ will be screened during the NEPA Film Fest at noon Sunday, April 6, in the Scout Theater at the Waverly Community House.
Submitted Artwork
Feature film ‘Small Town Universe’ will be screened during the NEPA Film Fest at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 5, in the Scout Theater at the Waverly Community House.
Submitted Artwork
WAVERLY — The Waverly Community House, in partnership with WVIA and supported by the F. Lammot Belin Arts Foundation, will host the 2025 Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival April 4 through 6. The festival takes place at the Waverly Community House and kicks off with an opening night reception at 6 p.m. Friday.
Dedicated to nurturing emerging and independent filmmakers from Northeast Pennsylvania and around the world, the three-day festival correspondingly promotes cultural awareness and appreciation of film as an art form by exposing local audiences to unique and original cinema. Now in its ninth year, the festival’s growing reputation is built on a commitment to offer the region access to new and independently produced films by a wide range of emerging and established filmmakers.
The year’s opening night event will feature a panel discussion with local filmmakers Graham Burrell, Luz Cabrales, Stephen Cognetti and Brian Long. The discussion will be moderated by Julie Sidoni, Director of Journalism at WVIA. The reception begins at 6 p.m. with light fare catered by Caravia Fresh Foods and Epicurean Delight, and an open bar with libations provided by Maiolatesi Wine Cellars and Summit Beverage.
Saturday and Sunday’s lineup will include a full roster of original films, from documentaries to comedies to thrillers. There is something for everyone.
Saturday’s festival events include feature and short films, two WVIA filmmaker workshops and the audience favorite, The Mystery Box Challenge. Back in September, participating teams received an assortment of plot devices, ranging from character names, a line of dialogue, a prop, a type of location, a plot element or a wardrobe item to include in a short film. Filmmakers had three months to write a script, cast, shoot and edit their short films based on those items. The finished products will be premiered at 5 p.m. and an awards presentation takes place thereafter.
Sunday’s lineup includes feature and short films, two WVIA filmmaker workshops and the “WVIA Student Showcase” and awards at 4 p.m. The Showcase challenged aspiring filmmakers in grades 4 through 12 to create a short (under five minutes) film for a possible screening at this year’s Film Festival. The films could be fiction, documentary, animated and/or experimental and of any genre. Entries were divided by student grade level – 4th through 6th, 7th through 9th and 10th through 12th and were free to students in over 40 school districts which are enrolled in WVIA’s Enhanced Scholar Program. Winning entries in each category receive tickets to the NEPA Film Festival and a screening of the film on Sunday afternoon at 4 p.m.
TICKETS
Tickets may be purchased at the Waverly Community House, by visiting waverlycomm.org or by visiting nepafilmfestival.com. Prices are as follows:
All-Inclusive Weekend Pass (includes all Festival events Friday through Sunday): $100
Friday Opening Night Reception: $65 (with Zach Sprowls on piano)
Saturday or Sunday “One-Day” Pass: $25
“Single Block” Pass: $10
“Student” Pass: $15 This one-day pass is only sold at the door. Students must show I.D.
SCHEDULE
The 2025 program is as follows:
FRIDAY, APRIL 4
Opening Night Reception
6 p.m.: Cocktail reception featuring light fare catered by Caravia Fresh Foods and Epicurean Delight, and an open bar with libations from Maiolatesi Wine Cellars and Summit Beverage.
7 p.m.: Panel discussion with local filmmakers Graham Burrell, Luz Cabrales, Stephen Cognetti and Brian Long with moderator Julie Sidoni.
7:45 p.m.: Q&A with WVIA’s Julie Sidoni
All Awards and “Best of Fest” Awards Presentation
Saturday, April 5
Noon to 1:30 p.m.: Documentary short block featuring the following Films shown in the main theater.
• “A Walk with Richard” (12 mins)
Director: Jonathan Walley
An intimate portrait of a first- generation Japanese immigrant and restaurateur, Richard Matsushima, who firmly believes in protecting the customer, his business and his legacy.
• “Terry’s Little Village” (6 mins., 45 secs.)
Director: Jack Kukolic
Terry Wilson is a 70-year-old lifelong resident of Meadowvale Village, Ontario’s first heritage district. As development looms and begins to destroy Terry’s favorite place in the world, he recreates pieces of history in his backyard, crafting an oasis where it feels like nothing has changed. Terry passionately fights to preserve history in a world that’s too anxious for change.
• “The Metalsmith” (6 mins., 56 secs.)
Director: Sean Mowry
The story of Binghamton jeweler, Gina Mowry-McHugh.
• “Gardner of the Galaxy” (10 mins., 43 secs.)
Director: Nick Natalicchio
World renowned astrophysicist and planetary scientist Dr. Edward Guinan reflects on his life, work, and involvement in the Red Thumbs Mars Garden Project at Villanova University, which experiments with growing sustainable food sources on Mars.
• “Panels and Pastures” (17 mins., 39 secs.)
Director: Tucker Gragg
Daniel Dotterer, a seventh-generation Pennsylvania farmer, and other family farms who bring new life into their land through solar grazing. Their stories capture the decline of small, independent farms and the hope for a new beginning. By uniting farming and energy production, these farmers are preserving their family legacies while helping to power America’s future.
• “Pride of Texas” (7 mins., 17 secs.)
Director: Ashley Seering
A look at the Texas Gay Rodeo Association and its participants who prove that rodeo, and Texas, is a place for everyone.
1 to 3 p.m.: Feature film, Scout Theater.
• “Small Town Universe” (1 hr., 30 mins.)
Director: Katie Dellamaggiore
In Green Bank, West Virginia, lies the world’s most sensitive radio telescope and the only U.S. town that bans Wi-Fi and cell phones. In this unplugged Appalachian community, scientists are on the hunt for signs of extraterrestrial life while residents experience everyday moments of joy and loss. But when government defunding threatens the telescope’s future, the town must consider which connections matter most.
1:30 to 3:30 p.m.: Comedy block featuring the following short films shown in the Main Theater.
• “Good Bad Advice” (8 mins., 12 secs.)
Director: Pawel Grajnert
A father overcomes his greatest fear as he dishes out good bad advice.
• “One Stunning Day” (13 mins., 2 secs.)
Director: John Bradley
The tale of a recently heartbroken man searching for a silver bullet solution to self-fulfillment.
• “Cheese Puff Smoothie” (18 mins., 37 secs.)
Director: Jason Hayner Jr.
Two roommates go on an adventure to create the ultimate form of cheese puff and save their friend.
• “Viaticum” (14 mins., 10 secs.)
Director: Derek Frey
A priest performing Last Rites is challenged by a hospice nurse who believes her patient should not be absolved of a deadly sin.
• “On Thin Ice*” (13 mins., 15 secs.)
Director: Chelsea Komorowski
Max, a quiet, socially awkward man in his 30s, who is utterly obsessed with famous professional hockey player Connor Hamilton, concocts a bizarre plan to bring Connor into his life when he is traded away.
• “A Fast Stop” (3 mins.)
Director: Hunter Wilde
Safety is important, especially on the road. Thankfully, your friendly neighborhood Speeder-Man is here to teach you the importance of respecting the law!
• “A Day With…” (3 mins., 31 secs.)
Director: Grant Hamilton
A day with Phil.
• “The Space Between” (18 mins. 59 secs.)
Director: Luke Baker
Two college students, who on the outside couldn’t be more different from each other, happen to meet at a party and form a deep connection where they find self-discovery, forgiveness and hope for the future.
3 to 5 p.m.: WVIA WORKSHOP: Production Management 101 with Ron Andruscavage
Scout Theater.
Film Production Management 101 covers the essential processes of organizing, budgeting and scheduling a film production from pre-production to post-production. It involves coordinating logistics, managing crew and resources, and ensuring the project stays on time and within budget. Effective production management is crucial for a smooth workflow, minimizing risks, and bringing a creative vision to life efficiently.
5 to 7 p.m.: The Mystery Box Challenge
Main Theater
5 to 7 p.m.: WVIA Workshop
Real Life to Reel: Crafting Authentic Documentaries with Tim Novotney
This is an interactive workshop on documentary filmmaking that explores techniques for identifying real-life stories, conducting insightful interviews, and capturing spontaneous moments. Participants will also examine ethical filmmaking practices and learn strategies to transform raw footage into compelling narratives, all within an engaging and supportive environment. Scout Theater
7 to 9 p.m.: Feature film
• “Shadows of the Past” (1 hr, 23 mins.)
Main Theater.
Director: Luz Cabrales
Four teens target a wealthy mansion owned by a lonely host. In exchange for safety and the freedom to take anything within the mansion, the host compels them to listen to haunting stories of the past.
SUNDAY, APRIL 6
Noon to 2 p.m.: Feature film
• “Never Not Yours” (1 hr., 21 mins., 23 secs.)
Scout Theater.
Directors: John Klein and Stephen Kniss
30ish-year-old siblings Michael, Ellie, and James drive to their family cabin to visit their parents Jonathan and Maddie. But when their mom and dad unexpectedly announce their divorce, chaos ensues.
Noon to 2 p.m. documentary block featuring the following short films shown in the Main Theater.
• “Adidas Owns the Reality” (21 mins., 28 secs.)
Directors: Keil Orion Troisi and Igor Vamos
Prankster activists stage a shocking runway show at Berlin Fashion Week to improve conditions for garment workers in the Adidas supply chain.
• “How to Sue the Klan” (34 mins.)
Director: John Beder
America’s first hate group, the Ku Klux Klan, dealt out hatred and violence for over a century without penalty – until five Black women and a young Black civil rights lawyer finally forced them to pay for their crimes. A groundbreaking 1982 civil case that established a legal precedent that paved the road for today’s fight against organized hate.
• “I Am More Dangerous Dead” (24 mins.)
Director: Majiye Uchibeke
The story of a man largely unknown in the west, but who is a household name and hero to Nigerians. Ken Saro Wiwa was a prolific writer and activist who led the ethnic minority of the Ogoni to protest the devastating effects of oil exploitation on their land.
2 to 4 p.m. Drama block featuring the following short films shown in the main theater.
• “Visit” (16 mins.)
Director: Paulina Zając
Maria and Waldemar Nowak are visited by the Office for Foreigners unannounced to examine whether their marriage is real or fake, serving only for the legalization of stay of Édouard, who is Algerian. The decision to grant the residence card to Édouard depends on the course of the visit.
• “The Name of Action” (11 mins., 23 secs.)
Director: Kristopher David Russin
Gina and Hannah are two young women going for the same role. One an experienced actress, the other less experienced but gifted. The film explores hard work vs natural talent, the resentment and competitiveness of the arts.
• “Aloo Poori” (14 mins.)
Director: Aditi Sridhar
27-year-old Sejal is on the cusp of leaving her home and mother behind, unsure if she’s scared to go, or scared to stay. Her mother Madhuri is avoiding a recent mental health diagnosis and her daughter’s departure by throwing her heart into her cooking.
• “Banana Tree*” (15 mins. 56 secs.)
Director: Sarah Bui
Ann, a divorced woman who is diagnosed with brain cancer and has a difficult time deciding whether or not to proceed with treatments. Ann’s Dad expects her to get treatment, but she has blamed her parents for never allowing her to make her own decisions: her career, her marriage, and now her life.
• “Supermoon” (7 mins. 45 secs.)
Director: Chad Patrick Shannon
A slice-of-life narrative drama that follows a pandemic nurse and her unemployed husband as they search for hope in the mundane.
• “What Makes the Ride Worthwhile” (5 mins.)
Director: Logan Desris
Alex recounts the final memory of her sister, Cassie, as she goes through their shared birthday, alone for the first time.
• “Passing” (3 mins.)
Director: Anarose Davidson
A surrealist look into the mind and emotions of a failing pre-med student. An experimental student short film.
2 to 4 p.m.: WVIA Workshop
Scout Theater.
Storytelling Masterclass: Practical Tips to Enhance Your Work with Alexander Monelli
Get inspired and immerse yourself in all things storytelling. Whether you’re searching for a new movie idea, stuck with writer’s block, or want to learn how to tell engaging stories, this workshop will ignite your creativity and provide practical ways to enhance your storytelling in film and beyond.
4 to 5:30 p.m.: WVIA student showcase
Main Theater.
The winners in each grade-level category experience the thrill of showcasing their work on the big screen.
4 to 5:30 p.m. drama block featuring the following short films shown in the Scout Theater.
• “Lorica*” (14 mins., 23 secs.)
Director: Benjamin Carlucci
A young priest is confronted with the horrific abuse perpetrated by a mentor.
• “Liminal*” (11 mins., 27 secs.)
Director: Spenser Watson Spratlin
A story about a man drafting his own suicide note with the help of a particular facet of himself. While riding the elevator to his final destination, he retreats to a liminal space in his mind in order to fully process the decision he feels he has made and prepare himself to say goodbye.
• “Pas De Deux*” (11 mins., 11 secs.)
Director: Shayna Lauren Smith
A rink janitor notices the toxic dynamic between a figure skater and his abusive coach. After catching the skater with drugs, the janitor decides to intervene.
• “Periphery” (10 mins., 47 secs.)
Director: Brittany Severance and Herman E. Servatius
An introspective young man revisits his past childhood stomping grounds to piece together some memories regarding an old photograph from his childhood.
• “As Easy as Closing Your Eyes*” (21 mins., 43 secs.)
Director: Parker Croft
The story of a grieving mother who battles her addiction to a black-market drug that gives her life-like dreams about the son she lost.
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thriller block featuring the following short films shown in the main theater.
• “Pool Boy” (8 mins., 10 secs.)
Director: Calvin McCroy
An ambitious pool boy cleans a filthy pool on a scalding summer day. When thirst strikes, he must venture into the house of the unscrupulous pool owner to quench it.
• “The Trunk” (7 mins., 47 secs.)
Director: Tony Susi
A determined woman struggles to offload a large, mysterious, and suspiciously heavy trunk without attracting too much attention.
• “Fallout*” (8 mins., 30 secs.)
Director: Desiree Zielinski
A group of close friends shelter in place from an impending nuclear attack. As the world seemingly falls apart outside with one of their friends in the thick of it, the truth comes out in the end with the damage already done.
• “Calls” (20 mins., 1 sec.)
Director: Brandon Keeton
A 911 call leads a new Police Chief to a cold case with a paranormal twist.
• “The Stained Glass House” (24 mins., 18 secs.)
Director: Gregory Sazanov
Olya and her brother Igor come to the village for their grandfather’s funeral to collect the inheritance he left behind. Her cousin, Vera, desperately needs the money and is determined to find it at any cost. The lost connection with their relatives and the strange house of their grandfather will force them to see the situation differently and reveal each other’s true faces.
• “Deadbolt” (8 mins., 34 secs.)
Director: Andy Wilczak
A chilling psychological horror short film that blurs the line between a man’s obsession with control and the supernatural forces that threaten to consume him.
• “Evolution” (7 mins., 25 secs.)
Director: Michael Jacoby
Advanced technology evaluates human life, seeing who is fit for the next generation.
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.: WVIA Workshop
Demystifying Distribution with Chris Zellers
With so many avenues to get your film in front of people today, where can you make the most impact? In this workshop, we’ll explore the various channels available for you to distribute your films, how you can optimize it for the greatest reach, and explore some useful tools to help you in your journey. Throughout the session, we’ll see real-world case studies from WVIA’s award-winning digital short series, including VIA Short Takes and Pizza! Scout Theater
Films marked with an “*” are intended for mature audiences and may contain language, nudity, violent or mature subject matter.
Light fare for sale is provided all weekend by Smash Hut Food Truck on Saturday and Lupo Russo Pizza on Sunday. Candy, snacks and beverages, as well as coffee provided by Electric City Roasting, will be available for sale in the canteen on Saturday and Sunday.
ABOUT THE NEPA FILM FESTIVAL
Established in 2015 by the Waverly Community House, The Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival is supported by the F. Lammot Belin Arts Foundation whose mission is to “build community through the arts.” Dedicated to nurturing emerging and independent filmmakers from Northeast Pennsylvania and around the world, the three-day festival correspondingly promotes cultural awareness and appreciation of film as an art form by exposing local audiences to unique and original cinema. For more information or to purchase tickets for events scheduled April 4 through 6, 2025, visit nepafilmfestival.com. Also follow Northeastern Pennsylvania Film Festival on Facebook and Instagram.
ABOUT THE SPONSORS
The ninth annual Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival, in partnership with WVIA Public Media, is sponsored by: Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, The Armature, Center City Print, In This Together, Posture, Jim & Maria Wilson, Maiolatesi Wine Cellars, Realty Network, Summit Beverage, Times Shamrock Outdoor, MX92 and ROCK 107, 4Imprint and Lamar Advertising.
