SCREENING NIGHT 1
On the Hill, Directed by Izzy Cohan
On The Hill follows a group of young ski jumpers from the North East as they train and compete. The sport has gone through waves of popularity in the U.S., but with no college programs, very limited spots at an international level, and a recent reduction of Olympics categories, it seems that this sport is at a critical point in its lifecycle.
This film is a meditation on and celebration of— the sport, childhood, and the communities that support this historically niche pastime.
Ān-dé-lǔ, Directed by Alan He
13-year-old Andrew Chong plays on his town’s travel baseball team. Growing up surrounded by white faces, Andrew makes jokes at his own expense to find approval from his compatriots. He constantly jokes with one of his few friends on the team, Zach. Additionally, Andrew pushes away his parents, specifically the baseball tips from his overbearing, super-passionate father, Hao.
Without Glory, Directed by Andrew Long
Adrian Davis is a veteran boxing trainer dreaming of the success that’s eluded him for 50+ years. He is increasingly unable to balance his role as caregiver for his terminally-ill wife with that of trainer and mentor for his would-be champions. At 78 years old and with mounting debts he has few options, still training boxers in order to survive.
Marie’s Ambition, Directed by Manu Fernández [Spain]
Marie faces the hegemonic king of chess and during the tournament, in a speakeasy, a high-ranking official of an organization will make an attractive but crazy proposal to the French player to improve her game. What she doesn’t know is that this persuasive and elegant man is none other than the prince of darkness himself.
Sand Dancers, Directed by Connor Langley [United Kingdom]
Sand Dancers follows Jimmy Simpson, a quadriplegic daredevil, on an extraordinary journey from novice to champion surfer. Set against the stunning backdrop of the north east British coast, this inspiring documentary captures the physical and emotional challenges Jimmy faces as he defies expectations, supported by a vibrant community of surfers and friends committed to enabling him to pursue his passion.
The First World Basketball Day, Directed by Bristol Studio, Eric Dargan
“The First World Basketball Day” — a mini-documentary by Bristol Studio that takes you behind the scenes of a historic journey—how World Basketball Day was conceptualized, championed, and ultimately recognized as an international holiday by the United Nations General Assembly in 2023.
With exclusive access, this documentary follows Professor David Hollander, a visionary author and basketball academic, as he worked tirelessly to turn a dream into reality. The film explores the deeper purpose of this global celebration—highlighting basketball’s power to unite, inspire, and ultimately create peace around the world.
This film is more than a story; it’s a movement. Watch and share so the message of World Basketball Day can be shared for generations to come.
SCREENING NIGHT 2
The Call of Combat, Directed by Edgar Ruiz Hernández [Canada]
Journey into the realm of combat sports through four distinct disciplines: Historical European Martial Arts, Modern Fencing, Karate, and Historical Reenactment. Discover the nuanced differences that define each style, from their historical roots, to modern-day techniques, and discover the shared principles that unite them; exploring discipline, legacy, skill, and community.
Surrender to the Sound, Directed by Madee Sabatier
Surrender to the Sound is about Angel City FC’s unrivaled women’s soccer supporter groups, dubbed ‘La Fortaleza,’ as they devotedly take on their second inaugural season. In particular, this film focuses on one main character, Lesly Vanessa, as she navigates her personal struggles through her second family, AC Pandemonium, one of Angel City FC’s official supporter groups. Other supporting characters, such as Ruby Badio and Kris Resari, emphasize the passion and hard work of a women’s soccer supporter. Through this primarily verite film, the supporters stay loyal through loss, and not only redefine what it means to be a women’s soccer fan, but to represent LA.
Tough Moves, Directed by Jakob Michal [Germany]
In “Tough Moves” 13-year-old Arminius navigates the contrasting worlds of his unique sport: chessboxing. In one moment, he is immersed in the calm concentration of the chessboard; in the next, he is engaged in the intense physicality of the boxing ring. This challenging balance extends into his home life, where his father, also his boxing coach, imposes rigorous training. Together, they prepare for the upcoming German championship.
No Mistakes, Directed by Graham Ros
In order to remedy a game-ending mistake, a volleyball player must face off against a different type of opponent – his own subconscious.
The Eight Count, Directed by Max Lee
A Korean-American boxer fights to protect her younger brother as they navigate a new city and the lingering weight of past upheavals. Set against the raw intensity of the ring, The Eight Count is a portrait of sibling love, and the resilience it takes to rise after every fall.
Kingdome, Directed by Shawn Antoine II
“KINGDOME” is a documentary that chronicles the remarkable journey of the legendary basketball tournament in Harlem known as the Kingdome. For 37 years, this tournament has been a symbol of community, resilience, and the transformative power of basketball. Through the eyes of its founder, Terry “Huncho” Cooper, and the diverse cast of players, fans, and organizers, the film explores the profound impact of the Kingdome on the lives of those involved and the Harlem community at large. From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most revered street basketball tournaments in New York City, the documentary captures the highs and lows, triumphs and challenges, and the unbreakable spirit that has defined the Kingdome. With a captivating blend of archival footage, intimate interviews, and immersive storytelling, “Kingdome” celebrates the shared passion for the game, the bonds formed on the court, and the legacy that continues to inspire generations. Through the lens of basketball, the film illuminates the power of unity, the resilience of a community, and the enduring impact of a tournament that goes far beyond the confines of the court.