Why the Lois Weber Film Festival Matters More Than Ever

Extraordinary, influential, and progressive - these words perfectly describe the Lois Weber Film Festival, an exciting and jam-packed weekend at the West Newton Cinema from March 20 to March 22.

This was my second time attending the festival, and it was an incredible experience. Now in its fourth year, the event brought together filmmakers and movie lovers for a weekend filled with screenings, discussions, and opportunities to learn more about Lois Weber’s legacy.

“Film festivals that center on women filmmakers and celebrate women’s history are vital because they create space for stories that would otherwise remain buried,” said Nisha Burton, a filmmaker of “Over the Kitchen Table,” which won Best Long Short at the festival. “Festivals like LWFF aren’t just celebrating the past - they’re part of that ongoing work.”

Festival President Gabrielle Rosson and Vice President Katie Killourhy introduced audiences to Lois Weber on Friday night. Weber was an American female filmmaker who was ahead of her time from 1911 to 1939. Her achievements, film techniques, and history in the film world are not to be overlooked.

“We founded this festival as a mission to elevate women in film. We think that the work women are doing in the industry is phenomenal,” Rosson said. She added that since the first festival, more people have become aware of Weber and her work.

“This is a modern-day Lois Weber right here,” Killourhy said about Rosson.

Friday night opened with a screening of Weber’s silent film “The Blot” (1921), accompanied by live music by silent film musician Jeff Rapsis.

“It was like stepping back in time,” audience member Melissa Clark described the experience.

The rest of the weekend featured a diverse lineup of short films, varying in genres, styles, and themes. Each screening was followed by a talkback, with filmmakers discussing the creative process behind their films.

“I couldn’t be happier to premiere my film 'Veritas Obscura' at the LWFF,” said filmmaker Lily Maelan Jones. “I love how LWFF emphasizes collaboration and fellowship among women filmmakers, something that can be hard to find in the festival circuit.”

In addition to shorts, “Riot in Bloom,” an independent feature film by Brett C. Levner, was presented. The film tells a unique coming-of-age story about a 40-year-old woman navigating a divorce while forming an unexpected friendship with a young trans teen.

“This is a wonderful film festival,” Levner said. “Supporting women in filmmaking is important.”

On the following Sunday, the final day of the festival opened with the world premiere of “Punkie,” a documentary by Audrey Olsen. The documentary centered on Punkie Johnson, an American comedian, known for her time on Saturday Night Live from 2020 to 2024.

Olsen’s black and white style brought palpable energy and a thunderous standing ovation. Olsen described the film as a personal exploration of identity, and she was proud of its outcome. It won the Audience Pick Award.

“The message is stick to who you are and continue on,” Johnson said. “If you get lost, I hope you find your way.”

A Women in Film panel discussion featured filmmakers Michelle Meek, Jodi Purdy, and Alecia Orsini, who shared insights into their careers and offered advice on how anyone can get started in filmmaking.

“Focus on what you want to create,” Purdy said. “If you don’t know what your passion is, go find it! Pursue your goals.”

The West Newton Cinema made a fantastic venue. Once you entered, the lobby was decorated with Lois Weber merchandise and picture opportunities by photographers Melanie Marhefka and Joseph LaForest of J.M.L Photography.

“By showcasing their work and bringing filmmakers together, the festival creates opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and visibility,” said Bridgette Cannell, the filmmaker of ‘SHIFT,’ which won Best New England Short.

The Lois Weber Film Festival was an inspiring weekend that provided a space for emerging voices and opened new doors. I look forward to returning in the coming years.