The Anchorage International Film Festival (AIFF) is thrilled to announce a significant leadership change and the introduction of exciting new categories for its upcoming event. The festival, celebrated as one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” and a top “20 Film Festival for First-Time Filmmakers,” is set to deliver an even more inspiring and empowering experience this year.
New Leadership Team
AIFF proudly welcomes Pat McGee and Adam Linkenhelt as the new Festival Directors, along with Kim Walsh as the Director of Operations and Caroline Pessoa Murphy as the Director of Development. This dynamic team, with their extensive experience and shared passion for impactful storytelling, is poised to elevate AIFF to new heights.
Pat McGee and Adam Linkenhelt bring over a decade of collaborative experience in documentary filmmaking. They have created powerful, character-driven stories that have received critical acclaim from publications such as the LA Times and Variety. Their notable works include American Relapse, Prisoner of the Prophet, CAL FIRE, Bernie Blackout, The Deported, and From the Hood to the Holler, which won the audience award at AIFF in 2022. Their projects have been featured on major platforms including NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, HULU, VICE, A&E, DISCOVERY, MAX, and PEACOCK.
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Kim Walsh, the newly appointed Director of Operations, brings a wealth of experience in event management and operations. Her involvement with film festivals and industry events, including Sundance Film Festival and Key West Film Festival, will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth execution of AIFF’s operations and events.
Caroline Pessoa Murphy, the newly appointed Director of Development, has over thirty years of experience as a producer and casting director for television and film. Caroline’s career includes working with major networks and streamers. Her leadership in fundraising and building partnerships will be pivotal in advancing the growth of AIFF.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Pat McGee and Adam Linkenhelt as Festival Directors of AIFF,” said Rich Curtner, AIFF President of the Board of Directors. “Their extensive experience in filmmaking and their passion for telling impactful stories align perfectly with our mission. We look forward to seeing the innovative direction they will bring to the festival. A special thanks to John Gamache and Ida Myklebost, the outgoing Festival Directors, who led us through an earthquake-impacted festival and the Covid-19 crisis.”
Pat McGee comments, “In recent years, Adam and I have had two of our features programmed at AIFF. We know firsthand it’s a special festival. We look forward to continuing the excellence outgoing festival directors Gamache and Myklebost brought to AIFF. We’re looking to elevate the festival to new heights.”
Adam Linkenhelt added: “AIFF has been a hidden gem on the festival circuit, but after being named one of the ‘Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World,’ I think the word is out. We expect even bigger things this year!”
New Competitive Categories
In addition to the new leadership, AIFF is excited to introduce two new competitive categories:
Real-World Impact: This category will feature documentaries and scripted films that strive to change the world through powerful storytelling and impactful narratives, highlighting pressing social issues and inspiring action. Emphasizing works from young and emerging filmmakers, this category aims to showcase and support independent storytelling that engages with significant causes such as LGBTQ+, climate justice, racial equity, and mental healthcare.
Explorer’s Achievement Award: Celebrating the incredible achievements of explorers and adventurers pushing the boundaries of the human spirit, this category will showcase films documenting physical journeys as well as exploring the emotional and philosophical dimensions of adventure. Curated by Explorer’s Club filmmaker Gregory Taylor, these films will inspire audiences and honor the courage and curiosity that drive human exploration.
About AIFF
The Anchorage International Film Festival is dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers and showcasing films that push boundaries and challenge perspectives. As we move forward with our new leadership team and exciting new categories, we invite filmmakers and film enthusiasts to join us in celebrating the power of cinema to make a difference. This year’s festival runs December 6-14, 2024.
re you excited about the new leadership at AIFF? Which of the new competitive categories interests you the most? How do you think these changes will impact the festival’s future? Share your thoughts with us on social media!
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