LAS VEGAS, May 8, 2025 – The Nevada Women’s Film Festival (NWFFest) announces their 11th annual event, which will take place at the UNLV Department of Film, featuring 45+ films, of all genres, by and about women, from Nevada and 13 countries. Notable local features include the festival premiere of Deborah Richards’s flair bartending documentary, Shaken & Stirred, Brett Caroline Levner’s dramedy, Riot in Bloom, and many others.

In addition to the film blocks, special events this year begin on Thursday with the return of the Young Filmmakers’ Showcase. The showcase presents the work of student filmmakers produced at the Young Filmmakers’ Workshop, an intensive training held at Canyon Springs High School in May. WIF Nevada thanks the Nevada Energy Foundation for funding this popular event.

On Friday, NWFFest welcomes the 2025 Nevada Woman Filmmaker of the Year, Jessica Chandler, who will sit down with UNLV Film Associate Chair (and WIF board member), Brett Caroline Levner. Chandler’s innovative body of work will be examined, including her exploration of taboo and controversial topics.

Saturday highlights include our Vanguard honoree, the multi-talented rising actress, Brittany S. Hall. Hall will discuss her remarkable career with board member Briana Kennedy, and her powerful drama, Test Pattern, will be screened (courtesy of Kino Lorber).

Sunday brings The State of Arts & Culture: More Than Just Sin City. This panel will include a lineup of arts and culture leaders who are guiding the Entertainment Capital of the World into the future  – beyond the stereotypes – and will showcase our dynamic film community.

The festival will culminate Sunday evening with the 11th Annual Femmy Awards. This year’s ceremony will kick off with the 2nd annual Spirit of Community Arts award honoring the visionary Sarah O’Connell for her contributions to the Nevada arts community. A total of 13 filmmaker awards will be presented, in traditional categories as well as those unique to NWFFest, such as the Spirit of Activism and Best Female Protagonist.

Please check out the website for more details, including parties, lobby performances, ticketing information, support opportunities and the complete schedule.