Calling all film enthusiasts, feminist trailblazers, and storytelling aficionados! The Athena Film Festival is rolling out the red carpet once again, and trust us, you won’t want to miss this cinematic extravaganza. From February 29 to March 3, 2024, Barnard College in the heart of New York City will transform into a dazzling celebration of women’s leadership in film. So, grab your popcorn and settle in as we take you on a whirlwind tour of this year’s festival!
A Festival with a Mission
For 14 phenomenal years, the Barnard Athena Film Festival 2024 has been shaking up the status quo, challenging tired old narratives, and showcasing kick-butt women both on and off-screen. But make no mistake as this isn’t just another film fest. It’s a movement, a revolution in celluloid!
Born from a powerful partnership between the Athena Center for Leadership at Barnard College and Women and Hollywood, this festival has a crystal-clear mission: to elevate and celebrate stories of women who are changing the game. And where better to host this female-powered extravaganza than Barnard College, a beacon of women’s education? Talk about perfect casting!
Lineup That’ll Make Your Head Spin: 2024’s Must-See Flicks
Hold onto your seat because this year’s lineup is hotter than a summer blockbuster! Here’s a sneak peek at some of the cinematic gems you’ll discover:
- “The Persian Version“: This closing night stunner will leave you breathless and begging for an encore.
- “20,000 Species of Bees”: Don’t let the title fool you – this isn’t a nature documentary, but a powerful exploration of identity and self-discovery.
- “Earth Mama“: Mother Earth gets her moment in the spotlight in this gripping tale of motherhood and resilience.
- “Fancy Dance“: Prepare for some fancy footwork and even fancier storytelling in this Native American-focused drama.
But wait, there’s more! Documentaries are bringing the real-world drama:
- “Breaking the News“: Get the inside scoop on women breaking barriers in journalism.
- “Going To Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project”: Blast off with this inspiring look at the legendary poet’s life and work.
- “The Disappearance of Shere Hite“: Uncover the mystery behind this controversial sex researcher’s vanishing act.
Bite-Sized Cinema That Packs a Punch
Don’t sleep on the shorts program! These mini-movies are serving up major talent in small packages. Keep your eyes peeled for gems like:
- “Hex the Patriarchy“: Magic, feminism, and a dash of rebellion? Sign us up!
- “As You Are“: A powerful exploration of identity and acceptance.
- “The Night Doctrine“: Prepare for a thrilling ride that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat.
Panels That’ll Blow Your Mind
Alright, film buffs, it’s time to flex those brain muscles! The Athena Film Festival isn’t just about watching – it’s about engaging, learning, and growing. Check out these thought-provoking panels:
- “Abortion Storytelling“: Tackling tough topics with grace, grit, and cinematic flair.
- “Data, Science, and Feminism“: Because who says STEM can’t be glamorous? Get ready for a nerdy-cool fusion of tech and film.
- “Decolonizing the Film Industry: Indigenous Women’s Voices“: Time to pass the mic to voices that have been silenced for far too long.
- “Keeping the Industry Door Open: Beyond the ‘Trend’ of Disability“: Disability representation isn’t a trend – it’s a necessity. Let’s talk about making it the norm.
Tomorrow’s Blockbusters Today
Listen up, aspiring Nora Ephrons and Ava DuVernays! The Athena List is like the cool, feminist cousin of the Black List, shining a spotlight on unproduced screenplays that put female leadership front and center. Previous Athena List picks have gone on to make serious waves in Hollywood:
- “On the Basis of Sex“: The Ruth Bader Ginsburg biopic that had us all saying “I dissent!”
- “Clemency“: Chinonye Chukwu’s powerful death row drama that left audiences speechless.
- “Out of My Mind“: The Sundance darling that’s got everyone talking.
Could your script be the next big thing? Time to dust off that screenplay and get submitted!
The Athena Impact
The 2024 Athena Film Festival isn’t just about watching movies – it’s about changing the game. Since its inception, this powerhouse event has been pushing for more women behind the camera, in the writers’ room, and in the executive suite. And guess what? It’s working!
The festival has become a launchpad for emerging talent, a networking hub for industry pros, and a catalyst for change in Hollywood. By providing a platform for these important stories and fostering a community of support for women in the industry, Athena is helping to shape a more inclusive and diverse film landscape. Now that’s what we call a Hollywood ending!
Your Ticket to the Revolution
Feeling inspired? Ready to join the Athena revolution? Here’s how you can get Athena Film Festival tickets:
- Snag a pass: From the high-roller Patron Pass ($1,500) to the budget-friendly Virtual Pass ($45), there’s an option for every film lover and budget.
- Patron Pass: Be a VIP, support a filmmaker, and get some serious perks.
- Premier Pass ($200): Priority entry, exclusive events, and bragging rights.
- Student Pass ($50): Because being broke shouldn’t keep you from great cinema.
- BC / CU Student Pass ($30): Special rate for Barnard and Columbia students – score!
- Virtual Pass: Can’t make it to NYC? No problem! Bring Athena to your living room.
- Submit your masterpiece: Got a film that screams “girl power”? Athena wants to see it! Keep an eye out for Athena Film Festival submission dates for next year’s festival.
- Volunteer: Be part of the magic behind the scenes. It’s a great way to meet like-minded film enthusiasts and support the cause.
- Spread the word: Can’t attend? You can still be an Athena ambassador! Share the festival on social media, tell your friends, and start a watch party. Every little bit helps!
Accessibility: Cinema for All
The Athena Film Festival is committed to making sure everyone can join in on the fun. They’re pulling out all the stops to create an accessible festival environment:
- Open Captions: Selected films will have OC, so no one misses a beat.
- ASL interpretation and Live Captioning: Available for intros, Q&As, and panels with Open Caption feature-length films.
- Assistive Listening Devices: Because every whisper and crescendo matters.
- Wheelchair-friendly venues: Roll on in and enjoy the show!
- Sensory Friendly Room: A quiet space for those who need a break from the excitement.
Need something specific? Just reach out to affguestservices@gmail.com at least two weeks before the festival, and they’ll do their best to accommodate you.
Community Vibes
The Athena Film Festival isn’t just an event – it’s a community. Each year, they team up with a network of local and national partners who share their passion for women’s leadership and gender equity. From the American Indian Community House to Women in Animation, these partnerships help spread the word, bring diverse audiences to the festival, and connect film lovers to ways they can take action.
Want to join the Athena family? Becoming a community partner is free – all you need is a commitment to shouting about the festival from the rooftops!
The Future is Female (and It’s Looking Bright)
As the curtain falls on Athena 2024, we’re already buzzing about what’s next. With plans for global domination (okay, maybe just international expansion) and year-round programming, this festival is just getting started. The 2025 edition is already penciled in for March 6-9, so mark your calendars!
Ready, Set, Action!
The Athena Film Festival isn’t just an event but it’s a call to action. It’s time to support, celebrate, and elevate women’s voices in film. It’s time to challenge the status quo, to tell new stories, to see the world through a different lens.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your pass, gather your friends, and get ready for four days of cinematic magic. The Athena Film Festival is calling and trust us – you don’t want to send this one to voicemail.
Hey, New York film lovers! Want to be the first to know about all the buzz surrounding the Athena Film Festival? Of course, you do! You can get all the updates from amNY for the Athena film festival schedule. See you at the movies, change-makers!
