NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) champions emerging and diverse filmmakers and storytellers from around the world, providing a platform for them to be recognized, share their work with audiences, and connect with industry professionals. Through year-round programming, NFMLA helps next-generation filmmakers gain insight into distribution, production, and representation while building valuable relationships to further their careers.
Thanks to funding from the Golden Globe Foundation (GGF), NFMLA continues to expand its impact beyond its flagship Monthly Film Festival. GGF support fuels the Monthly InFocus Film Festival program, a diversity initiative that combats the lack of representation in the film industry by elevating filmmakers from underrepresented communities. It also supports NFMLA’s Student Membership program, which provides college and university students across Los Angeles County with access to screenings, workshops, panels, competitions, and networking opportunities designed to help them launch their careers.
One recent example of NFMLA’s success is the short documentary Prelude of a Story, directed by Ashley Salman Herrera. After being selected to screen at NFMLA, Herrera’s film gained critical exposure and led to connections with distributors. That connection ultimately resulted in the documentary being acquired by REEL SOUTH and included in the PBS documentary series, now streaming nationwide on PBS and REEL SOUTH platforms. This milestone crowned a two-year festival run that included more than 30 festival selections, recognitions, and awards.
This success story is just one of many that demonstrate how NFMLA serves as a powerful launchpad for filmmakers. With the support of the Golden Globe Foundation, NFMLA continues to showcase, support, educate, and build lasting relationships for the storytellers who are shaping the future of film.
Watch Prelude of a Story: PBS | REEL SOUTH | YouTube
Director: Ashley Salman Herrera
After her mother’s passing, a daughter searches through archival footage to understand who she was and how it connects to her father’s abusive relationship that is shaping her understanding of womanhood.
