Why Imagine This Women’s International Film Festival Matters: A Testament to Bold, Diverse, and Award-Winning Storytelling

In today’s rapidly evolving film industry, diversity and representation remain more important than ever. Imagine This Women’s International Film Festival (ITWIFF), based in New York City, stands as a beacon for women filmmakers, especially from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, amplifying voices too often overlooked by mainstream platforms. The festival’s carefully selected programming is not just a celebration of creativity—it’s a powerful statement about the quality, relevance, and transformative power of stories told by women from all backgrounds.

Elevating Voices That Matter

ITWIFF was founded with a mission to support independent and aspiring women filmmakers worldwide. It is a space where underrepresented narratives find a home and where bold storytelling thrives. This dedication to inclusivity and excellence is reflected in the festival’s lineup of films that consistently garner critical acclaim, prestigious award nominations, and wins on the world stage.

ITWIFF’s Programming: A Testament to Excellence

The films selected for ITWIFF undergo rigorous curatorial review, ensuring that only the most compelling, innovative, and socially relevant works are showcased. The festival’s track record of screening films that have been nominated for or won Oscars, BAFTAs, NAACP Image Awards, and Peabody Awards speaks volumes about the caliber of its programming. Each film reflects the festival’s dedication to bold, diverse storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences and critics worldwide.

I’M NOT A ROBOT — Academy Award Winner for Best Live Action Short Film (2024)

Directed by Victoria Warmerdam, I’M NOT A ROBOT took home the coveted Best Live Action Short Film Oscar at the 97th Academy Awards in 2025. This groundbreaking short captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling and innovative approach, making it one of the festival’s crown jewels.

Superman Doesn’t Steal — NAACP Image Award Winner (2024)

Directed by Tamika Lamison, Superman Doesn’t Steal won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Short Form (Live Action) in 2023. The film’s impactful narrative and compelling performances resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, solidifying its place in contemporary cinema.

Bazigaga — BAFTA Nominee for Best British Short Film (2023)

Directed by Jo Ingabire Moys and Stephanie Charmail, Bazigaga received a BAFTA nomination for Best British Short Film in 2023. The film’s poignant exploration of complex themes earned it widespread acclaim and further elevated the festival’s prestige on the international stage.

Sister Wives — Oscar and BAFTA Qualified, BIFA Longlisted (2023)

Directed by Louisa Connolly-Burnham, Sister Wives is both Oscar and BAFTA qualified and has been longlisted for the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA). The film’s authentic storytelling and exceptional craft highlight the kind of bold voices ITWIFF seeks to elevate.

The Runt — Oscar Qualified (2023)

Christy Stratton’s The Runt achieved Oscar qualification in 2023, marking another milestone for ITWIFF alumni. The film’s compelling narrative and technical excellence showcase the festival’s commitment to supporting visionary filmmakers.

ALA KACHUU – Take and Run — Academy Award Nominee for Best Live Action Short (2021)

Directed by Maria Brendle, ALA KACHUU – Take and Run was nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 94th Academy Awards in 2022. This gripping film about resilience and survival exemplifies the powerful storytelling ITWIFF champions.

Sheer Qorma — BAFTA Shortlisted (2021)

Faraz Arif Ansari’s Sheer Qorma was shortlisted for BAFTA consideration in 2021, spotlighting diverse narratives and expanding the festival’s global reach.

Reimagined Volume III: Young Thang — Peabody Award Nominee (2024)

Created by Melissa Joyner, Julie Cavaliere, and Michaela Holland, Reimagined Volume III: Young Thang was nominated for a Peabody Award in the Immersive & Interactive category in 2024. This innovative project reflects ITWIFF’s embrace of cutting-edge storytelling techniques.

Eighty Thousand Steps — Webby Award Nominee (2023)

Directed by Crystal Chan, Eighty Thousand Steps earned a Webby Award nomination in 2023, recognizing excellence in digital and immersive media.

She Did That — Netflix Pick Up After ITWIFF Screening (2018)

Directed by Renae Bluitt, She Did That is an inspiring documentary that gained Netflix distribution after its successful screening at ITWIFF. The film celebrates the journeys of Black women entrepreneurs, reflecting ITWIFF’s mission to amplify underrepresented voices.

Join ITWIFF in Elevating Diverse Voices

As Imagine This Women’s International Film Festival approaches its 10th anniversary, it remains steadfast in its mission to champion bold, diverse, and unapologetic storytelling by women filmmakers worldwide. Stay connected to ITWIFF for upcoming events, screenings, and initiatives designed to celebrate and empower underrepresented voices in film.

A Festival That Changes the Narrative

By selecting and promoting films of this caliber, Imagine This Women’s International Film Festival proves that women-led and diverse storytelling is not only necessary but also produces work of the highest artistic and cultural quality. ITWIFF’s programming sends a clear message: diversity and excellence go hand in hand.

Supporting festivals like ITWIFF means supporting the future of cinema — one that is more inclusive, equitable, and vibrant.