The Los Angeles Festival of Movies (LAFM) is gearing up for its second edition, set to take place from April 3 to 6. This year’s event will showcase a diverse selection of independent films, including premieres and screenings that promise to captivate audiences. The festival aims to bring the community together after a challenging start to the year, offering a platform for emerging international filmmakers and multidisciplinary artists. Among the highlights are the West Coast premiere of Amalia Ulman's "Magic Farm," the world premiere of Dennis Cooper and Zac Farley’s "Room Temperature," and the U.S. premiere of Alexandra Simpson’s "No Sleep Till." Additionally, LAFM introduces a new Animation Today program, expanding its offerings to include animated shorts.

The festival founders, Micah Gottlieb and Sarah Winshall, expressed their excitement about presenting an array of stirring and original films. Screenings will be held at various venues, including Vidiots, 2220 Arts + Archives, and Now Instant Image Hall. A conversation series featuring notable figures in the industry will also debut at the Philosophical Research Society. Tickets and passes are available for purchase, with single tickets going on sale in mid-March. Last year’s inaugural event featured the West Coast premiere of A24’s "I Saw the TV Glow" and other indie titles, setting a high standard for this year’s lineup.

Celebrating International Talent and Emerging Filmmakers

This year’s LAFM lineup includes a mix of feature films and shorts that highlight the work of both established and emerging filmmakers. The festival kicks off with the West Coast premiere of "Magic Farm," a satirical film directed by Amalia Ulman, which had its debut at Sundance earlier this year. The film stars Chloë Sevigny, Simon Rex, and Alex Wolff as a documentary crew that finds itself in the wrong country while profiling an Argentinian musician. Another standout is "Room Temperature," co-directed by Dennis Cooper and Zac Farley, which explores the dramatic ups and downs of a family-operated haunted house. These films exemplify the festival’s commitment to showcasing innovative storytelling and fresh perspectives.

Further enhancing the lineup are the U.S. premiere of Alexandra Simpson’s "No Sleep Till," a drama set during a hurricane, and Grace Glowicki’s horror-comedy "Dead Lover," which has already garnered attention at Sundance and SXSW. The inclusion of these films demonstrates LAFM’s dedication to supporting international talent and providing a platform for voices that might not otherwise receive widespread exposure. By featuring such a diverse range of works, the festival offers audiences a comprehensive view of contemporary independent cinema, celebrating the creativity and innovation that define the genre.

New Venues and Programs Expand the Festival Experience

In addition to its impressive film selection, LAFM is introducing several new elements to enhance the overall experience. One of the most notable additions is the Animation Today program, which will showcase a variety of animated shorts from around the world. This expansion reflects the festival’s commitment to exploring different forms of cinematic expression and engaging with a broader audience. Screenings will take place at multiple venues, including Vidiots, 2220 Arts + Archives, and Now Instant Image Hall, each offering a unique atmosphere for film enthusiasts.

To further enrich the festival experience, LAFM will host a conversation series featuring discussions between prominent figures in the film industry. Notably, Dennis Cooper will participate in a talk with Tony Tulathimutte at the Philosophical Research Society, a new venue for the festival. This series provides attendees with the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about the art of filmmaking and the themes explored in the selected works. With passes currently on sale and single tickets becoming available in mid-March, LAFM is poised to offer a memorable and thought-provoking celebration of independent cinema, bringing together filmmakers and audiences in a spirit of discovery and appreciation.