Category: kesq-local-news

Jesus Reyes

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Legendary LGBTQ+ trailblazer Mariah Hanson—founder and producer of The Dinah, the world’s largest and longest-running music festival for queer women, nonbinary folks, and allies—will take her final bow in September 2025 capping off an unprecedented 34-year run of music, celebration and LGBTQ+ cultural impact.

Hanson confirmed that the upcoming edition of The Dinah, set for September 24–28 at the Riviera Resort in Palm Springs, will be her final production—bringing a monumental era in queer culture and independent live events to a close.

Hanson stepping down does not mean the end for the festival. Organizers said Hanson is actively in talks with potential successors, “seeking the right partner to carry the torch forward and preserve the event’s powerful legacy of pride, visibility, and community for future generations.”

“After 34 unforgettable years, I’m stepping away from producing this world-famous celebration of queer joy, freedom, and connection. It’s been the honor of a lifetime to help create space where our community could be bold, wild, and unapologetically ourselves,” Hanson said. “I’ve often been asked when I would pass the torch. I never had a specific answer — only that I’d know when the moment felt right. And now, the time is right. It’s time for a new generation to bring their vision, energy, and heart to this legacy and take it even further. That’s my deepest hope.”

Founded in 1991 by Mariah Hanson, The Dinah has evolved from a grassroots weekend gathering into a global phenomenon, drawing thousands to a five-day experience filled with live music, iconic pool parties, and a spirit of transformation.

Mariah Hanson’s influence extends far beyond event production—she’s long been regarded as a tastemaker with a remarkable instinct for booking artists on the verge of explosion. Thanks to her The Dinah stage has repeatedly served as career inflection points for artists who would go on to shape the sound of a generation. From Lady Gaga to Katy Perry, Lizzo to Bebe Rexha and Doechii (among others), Hanson didn’t just predict their success—she helped launch it.

Hanson’s decision to step down comes from a place of reflection and reverence for what has been accomplished – and a desire to conclude on a high note, giving one final, unforgettable celebration to the community that helped build it, all while ensuring The Dinah is thoughtfully passed on to the right hands to continue its powerful legacy.

“If The Dinah has ever touched your heart, brought you joy, or helped you feel seen — I invite you to join me one last time as I close out my Dinah career and celebrate 34 years of unforgettable memories, community, and cultural impact,” Hanson said. “While my Dinah chapter is ending, the future is full of possibility in new hands. My hope is that this beloved torch is carried forward — so The Dinah can thrive for another 34 years and beyond.”

One final invitation to revel in the spirit of unity and community that defines the event—and to step into a world of empowerment and inclusivity, where authenticity is not just welcomed, but celebrated.

The Grand Finale promises to be a powerful homecoming celebration and an unforgettable thank you, with a line-up and legacy tribute that honor The Dinah’s musical history, queer cultural roots, inclusive ethos, community feel and contagiously electrifying energy.

One of the not-to-be-missed highlights of The Dinah’s Grand Finale will be the return of Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey from the cult lesbian TV series The L Word—the show that famously catapulted The Dinah onto screens around the world. In a full-circle moment that blends pop culture and queer legacy, the duo will be back where it all began appearing at The Saturday Pool Party, to sign their new book “So Gay for You” and take photos with fans. A limited number of 150 copies will exclusively be available at The Dinah for purchase and signed in person. They’ll also make a special appearance at the Saturday night party – —but not before they hit The Dinah’s iconic red carpet in head-turning looks.  Their presence is more than a moment —it’s a celebration of visibility, chosen family, and a powerful nod to the monumental mark The Dinah leaves behind. Keep an eye out— —more exciting announcements featuring Leisha and Kate are coming soon.

And that’s just the beginning. The Dinah 2025 is shaping up to be another grand slam, with a powerhouse entertainment line-up and a stellar wave of celebrity guests expected to join Mariah Hanson’s final Dinah. From chart-topping artists to iconic queer talent, Hanson will raise the bar one last time to deliver a celebration that will be nothing short of legendary. The full entertainment lineup drops in mid-June—get ready for a history-making finale and the most epic send-offs in Dinah history.

“This final Dinah is my personal love letter to the community — a celebration that reflects the boldness, beauty, and heart that have always defined who we are,” shares Hanson. “More than anything, I hope the legacy I leave is one of joy, connection, and possibility — a foundation for the next generation to build something even greater.”

At the heart of LGBTQ+ culture since 1991, The Dinah was never just a party – it was and will always be a movement, a unique sanctuary where generations of queer people came to connect, be seen and feel free and empowered in a safe space.

“This last edition isn’t just an event—it’s the culmination of 34 spectacular years of joy, liberation, visibility, and love. Whether you’re returning to relive the magic or experiencing it for the first time, this is your moment to be part of herstory,” says Mariah Hanson visibly moved. “Come raise a glass, dance under the sun, and help write this last, extraordinary chapter with me—a tribute to a journey that changed lives, built community and sparked decades of culture-shifting moments, bold firsts, and unforgettable memories. While I may be taking my final bow, the legacy we’ve built together will live on in every life it’s touched.”

Tickets and full event details are available now at www.thedinah.com

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Luis Avila

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ) – Residents are outraged after finding flyers from a known hate group put up in plain sight across a shopping center parking lot in Rancho Mirage. The flyers appear to be from Patriot Front, an American white supremacist and neo-fascist hate group.

The flyers were discovered last week at the corner of Bob Hope and Gerald Ford by Rico, who did not want to share his real name or face.

“It was concerning to me. Never seen this before in Rancho Mirage. I’ve lived here many years… I think the group wants it seen. Whoever posted it here wants to be seen.”

Rico, Rancho Mirage resident

Concern quickly spread throughout the community as photos of the flyers began circulating online.

“I think it’s disgusting and you know it’s there but I hate when you gotta go around and see it. It’s a terrible thing and I don’t understand very they do this.” 

Tim, Indio resident

News Channel 3 receiving a statement from the city of Rancho Mirage:

The City of Rancho Mirage has been made aware of some stickers attributed to the group known as “Patriot Front” being distributed near the corner of Bob Hope and Gerald Ford.

The city unequivocally condemns the dissemination of hate-filled propaganda and any actions intended to intimidate or divide our community. These materials do not reflect the values of inclusivity, respect, and unity that Rancho Mirage proudly upholds.

The statement goes on to say the city is working with local law enforcement agencies to investigate the origin of the flyers. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Rancho Mirage Police Department at (760) 836-1600.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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Garrett Hottle

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) As part of Men’s Health Month, Desert Oasis Healthcare is sending a clear message to men across the Coachella Valley: Don’t wait until something’s wrong to go to the doctor.

Some of the most serious health threats men face including heart disease, diabetes, and prostate cancer can be caught early with routine screenings. But doctors say too many men still skip that first step.

“Just come see me once a year,” says Dr. Seamanduras-Navarro with Desert Oasis Internal Medicine. “Knowledge is power. If you don’t know what’s going on, you can’t do anything about it.”

One key screening that men should be aware of is the PSA test, which checks for early signs of prostate cancer. It’s a simple blood test, but the results can be difficult to interpret without medical guidance.

“The actual test is not expensive, but the results are not very reliable,” Dr. Navarro says. “There’s a big gray area. That’s why it’s always better to have a discussion before you’re actually doing the test.”

Doctors recommend starting that conversation around age 50, or earlier if there’s a family history of prostate issues.

For more information on Desert Oasis Healthcare, visit this link.

For more tips on healthy living and to watch more of our Living Healthy stories, visit this link.

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Gavin Nguyen

CACTUS CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – Improvements to the I-10 aimed at improving safety and connecting electric vehicle drivers to the grid are nearing completion.

The I-10 Desert Rehab Project began in 2022 with an estimated completion time of three and a half years. According to project leaders, the project will be substantially completed in late July. The rest stop is expected to reopen in the coming weeks.

“The I-10 Desert Rehab Project is essentially a paving project at heart. It’s a rehabilitation paving project of 13 miles, both eastbound and westbound the I-10 east of Dillon Road,” Thomas Reese, the project manager, said.

Reese also highlighted the addition of a climbing lane for eastbound freight traffic, which he said improves safety for both truck drivers and the general public by separating the two.

Eight new electric vehicle charging stations have also been installed in both directions of the Cactus City Rest Stop, just east of Indio. Four chargers will be available on each side when the rest stop reopens.

“The installation of chargers in more rural parts of the state or in stretches in between some of these destinations will help kind of bridge that gap,” Reese said of the new installations.

Stay with News Channel 3 for the latest.

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Tori King

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ)– June 3rd is World Bike Day, which celebrates bikes and cyclists around the world. It’s also a day that encourages cyclists to ditch the car for a day, and if possible, take a bike for transportation instead.

Several desert cities are also celebrating World Bike Day. From the Ironman to the Tour De Palm Springs, it’s no secret that the Coachella Valley has a large cycling community, and is very bike friendly and inclusive. In fact, Palm Springs posted a message on social media reminding drivers to be aware of additional cyclists on the roadways, and to practice careful driving.

World Bike Day comes as the Coachella Valley is continuing its efforts to become more bike-friendly, by adding new bike trails in several cities, as well as an extensive CV Link project spanning the valley.

In the latest update in April, The Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) approved two major steps to advance the CV Link project, an eco-friendly alternative transportation trail across the desert. Officials voted to allocate an additional $15 million to complete final stages of CV Link construction.

Since then, construction continues and crews have been seen working to finish up the final pieces of the project.

News Channel 3’s Tori King is working to speak with CVAG to get an update on the projects, and how it will make biking safer for people riding in the desert.

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Jesus Reyes

JURUPA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – President Donald Trump again threatened California today with possible fines and loss of federal education funds for allowing a transgender athlete from Jurupa Valley High School to compete in the CIF State Track and Field meet last week in Clovis.

Trump posted Tuesday on social media that Gov. Gavin Newsom “fully understands, large scale fines will be imposed” following the California Interscholastic Federation State meet and AB Hernandez’s participation in three events.

Hernandez, a junior on the Jurupa Valley track and field team, won the girls’ triple jump and high jump and finished second in the long jump at the CIF State Championships Saturday, despite protests and calls for her to not be allowed to compete because she is transgender.

Under a rule change announced last week by the CIF, the state’s governing body for high school sports, Kira Gant Hatcher from Saint Mary’s College High School in Berkeley was allowed to stand with Hernandez at the spot for first-place finishers on the podium. Hatcher was second in the triple jump.

The new rule awards biological female athletes the place on the podium they would have earned if not for the presence of transgender athletes.    Saint Mary’s College High School also received 10 points in the team scoring, just like Jurupa Valley High School.

Hernandez was among three high jumpers to clear 5 feet, 7 inches but was declared the winner because she cleared the height on her first attempt, while Jillene Wetteland, a senior at Long Beach Poly, and Lelani Laruelle, a junior at Monta Vista in Cupertino, both missed their first attempts, then cleared on their second.   

Hernandez was second in the long jump behind Long Beach Wilson senior Loren Webster.

During some of Hernandez’s jumps, a protester could be heard on a bullhorn from outside the Buchanan High School stadium chanting “No boys in girls’ sports!” the Los Angeles Times reported.

CIF officials banned protest signs inside the facility, but outside protesters held several, including ones that read “No Child Is Born in the Wrong Body,” “Trans Girls Are Boys: CIF Do Better,” and “She Trains to Win. He takes the trophy?” according to The Times.

Hernandez’s mother, Nereyda Hernandez, praised her daughter after the events in a statement provided to The Times, saying, “As your mother, I cannot fully express how PROUD I am of you.”

Nereyda Hernandez told City News Service at the CIF Masters Meet at Moorpark High School on May 24 that her daughter’s focus on sports helps her.   

“As any other child, they need that support. They need that love. I hope she know I’m going to support her 110%. I’m going to be behind her all the way.”

Last Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Justice announced it is opening an investigation to determine if a state law allowing transgender athletes to compete on female sports teams at California schools violates the federal Title IX civil rights law.

The department sent letters to state Attorney General Rob Bonta, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond and the CIF informing them of the investigation.

According to the DOJ, the investigation specifically targets state Assembly Bill 1266, the 2013 legislation aimed at preventing discrimination against transgender students and ensuring their right to take part in school activities, including athletics.

It also targets a CIF bylaw “that permits, directs, instructs or requires California high schools to allow males to participate in girls’ interscholastic athletics, thereby depriving girls and young women of equal athletic opportunities.”   

Without using her name, the DOJ letter to the CIF specifically references Hernandez.

“Title IX exists to protect women and girls in education. It is perverse to allow males to compete against girls, invade their private spaces, and take their trophies,” Harmeet K. Dhillon, assistant attorney general for civil rights, said in a statement. “This division will aggressively defend women’s hard-fought rights to equal educational opportunities.”   

Last Tuesday, the CIF announced a change in the entry rules for the state meet, essentially expanding the field of competitors in various events to ensure biological females were not excluded from the competition due to the performance of trans athletes.   

The DOJ Title IX investigation announcement came one day after Trump posted on social media that he would withhold federal funding from California if transgender athletes are allowed to compete in girls sports, and he called on local authorities to prevent Hernandez from competing in the CIF State meet.

“California, under the leadership of Radical Left Democrat Gavin Newsom, continues to ILLEGALLY allow `MEN TO PLAY IN WOMEN’S SPORTS.’ This week a transitioned male athlete, at a major event, won `everything,’ and is now qualified to compete in the `State Finals’ next weekend.”

The athlete Trump is presumably referring to is Hernandez.   

“As a male, he was a less than average competitor. As a female, this transitioned person is practically unbeatable. THIS IS NOT FAIR, AND TOTALLY DEMEANING TO WOMEN AND GIRLS,” Trump wrote. “Please be hereby advised that large scale Federal Funding will be held back, maybe permanently, if the Executive Order on this subject matter is not adhered to.  

“The Governor, himself, said it is `UNFAIR.’ I will speak to him today to find out which way he wants to go??? In the meantime I am ordering local authorities, if necessary, to not allow the transitioned person to compete in the State Finals. This is a totally ridiculous situation!!!’   

Nereyda Hernandez said she couldn’t expect anything else from her daughter for competing in the CIF track and field meets.   

“There is nothing I could do but support her and be proud.”

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María García

CABAZON, Calif. (KESQ) – One person was killed after a single-vehicle crash heading eastbound on I-10, west of Hargrave Street, swerved off the freeway.

On Tuesday, at around 6:10 A.M., a 2019 Subaru Outback swerved off the road and killed a 75-year-old male passenger from Oro Valley, Arizona. He was pronounced dead on scene.

The coroner’s office identified him as George Letts.

The female driver was 74 years old, from Oro Valley, Arizona. She was transported to a local hospital for major injuries.

There are no lane closures in the area due to the crash being off the freeway.

Stay with News Channel 3 for any further updates.

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Kendall Flynn

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Palm Springs International Airport is working on a master plan to upgrade the airport and enhance its offerings for travelers.

PSP officials said they have a plan to drastically improve the airport over 20 years, including expanding the terminals and changing the concourses. While the expansion is a long-term goal, officials said they have short-term goals to improve the airport in the meantime.

Part of those enhancements include adding new restaurants, like Trio and Vino Volo. Trio’s Owner, Kevin Marchese, said it was a long process to reach the concourse, but it was worth the wait.

“10 years ago, we said to our city manager; ‘Look we need to have local restaurants, they have them in other airports, Arizona, [and] just everyone does,” Marchese said. “And so we finally do because it’s a part of us.”

Marchese said conversations of adding Trio to the airport started nearly six years ago, but the COVID-19 Pandemic paused the progress. The project wasn’t picked back up until September 2023, but he said it’s vital for Trio and other local businesses to join the traveler community.

“It’s important for all of us,” Marchese said. “We’re in hard times now, so the more we can support each other the more we can support local businesses, the better we’re all going to be as a community.”

“Do you mean hard times, like the summer months?” News Channel 3’s Kendall Flynn asked.

“Summer months. Seasons are not as long as they used to be,” Marchese said. “Travelers are not as much as they used to be. So we just need the support.”

For other projects at the Palm Springs International Airport visit https://flypsp.com/progress/#allprojects

Stay with News Channel 3 for an exclusive look at the new restaurants, and to hear from Marchese on the importance of upgrading PSP with local businesses. 

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Jesus Reyes

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Springs International ShortFest announced its programmed lineup.

Sponsored by the City of Palm Springs, this 31st edition is set to welcome audiences at the Festival Theaters at 789 E Tahquitz Canyon Way from June 24-30. 

In all, the festival will screen 51 curated programs showcasing 311 films from 64 countries and territories, including 45 World Premieres, 10 International Premieres, 36 North American Premieres, 19 U.S. Premieres., and 94 California Premieres. More than 6,200 short films from 141 countries and territories were submitted.

Tickets will be available on Thursday, June 5 at psfilmfest.org. The complete lineup is included at the bottom of the article.

“Brimming with inspired storytellers and experimentation, this year’s ShortFest once again promises short films which push boundaries, spark conversations, and entertain audiences,” said Lili Rodriguez, Artistic Director of the Palm Springs International Film Society. “As we mark our 31st year, we embrace the fresh voices shaping the future of this industry, the short form which continues to elevate the medium of moviemaking to new heights. We’re thrilled to bring these stories to our passionate Palm Springs community and to welcome filmmakers from across the world to the Coachella Valley.”

Short films featuring celebrated film and television actors include Aria starring Pauline Chalamet; BDAY Private Dick starring John C. Reilly and Nick Thune; Blood Boysstarring Booboo Stewart; Cattywampus starring Hamish Linklater and John Carroll Lynch; Dragfox starring Ian McKellen and Divina De Campo; Dust to Dust starring Tess Goldwyn; Fireline starring Bobby Soto and Fabian Alomar; Good Boy Banjo starring Albert Birney and Shirley Chen; Hatchlings starring Demi Singelton; Heaven is Nobody’s starring Roger Guenveur Smith; How Was Your Weekend? starring James Morosini and Rachael Harris; I Want To Feel Fun starring Esther Povitsky and Simon Rex; Interloper starring Chloe East and Ryan Simpkins; Little One starring Lucy Walters; Learning How to Drive with Alicia Silverstone; Main Man starring Haley Joel Osment, Finn Wittrock, and Jenny Yang; Matilda and the Brave Escape starring Bella Ramsey; Max Distance starring John Daly; Melody of Love starring Jane Levy and John Reynolds; Moon Lake directed by Jeannie Sui Wonders and starring Chase Sui Wonders; No Experience Necessary starring Michael Graceffa; Petra and the Sun starring Fernando Solís Lara; Retirement Plan starring Domhnall Gleeson; Rhoda starring Emma D’Arcy; She Raised Me starring Rosie O’Donnell; Sleazy Tiger starring Alan Cumming; Tape Worm starring CJ Beckford and Antonia Campbell-Hughes; Tanning Zone directed by Chloe East; Thanks for Having Me starring Caleb Hearon, Johnny Berchtold and Ryan Simpkins; The Errand directed by Hayley Marie Norman and starring Vanessa Chester; The Last Cinnamon Roll starring Reggie Watts; The Yellow starring Haley Joel Osmont and Marin Hinkle; Three Keenings starring Seamus O’Hara; What Freedom starring Ashley Park; What’s the Deal with Birds? starring Chris Pine and Kimia Behpoornia; Where We Came From starring Archie Panjabi; and You Know You Wanna Stay starring Elsie Fisher.

In addition to short films, ShortFest will be spotlighting the Hulu drama Paradise, created by Dan Fogelman and starring Sterling K. Brown. Award-winning writer, director, and ShortFest alum Hanelle M. Culpepper will attend the screening of episode “You Asked for Miracles,” which she directed. Culpepper attended ShortFest in 2003 with her shorts A Single Rose and Six and the City. Her diverse work as a director in television includes the pilot for Star Trek: Picard as well as episodes of Star Wars: The Acolyte, Westworld, True Story, The Last Days of Ptolemy Gray, Anansi Boys, Kung Fu and more.

A proven launchpad for awards contention, ShortFest has seen over 100 of its past-presented films going on to receive Academy Award® nominations. Juried award winners will be announced on Sunday, June 29, from the official selection, which includes five Academy Award-qualifying awards and cash prizes totaling $30,000. The Best of the Fest shorts will be screened on the final day, Monday, June 30. This year’s award categories, which each have their own group of jury members, include: 

Oscar®Qualifying Awards: Best of the Festival Award, Best Animated Short, Best Documentary Short, Best Live-Action Short Over 15 Minutes and Best Live-Action Short 15 Minutes and Under. 

Student Short Awards: Best Student Animated Short, Best Student Documentary Short, Best Student International Short, and Best Student U.S. Short. 

Special Jury Awards: Best International Short, Best U.S. Short, Best Comedy Short, Best LGBTQ+ Short, Best Midnight Short, Desert Views Award, Young Cineastes Award, Kids’ Choice Award.

Vimeo Staff Pick Award: Honoring one outstanding short film with a cash prize, a guaranteed Vimeo Staff Pick, and featured promotion across Vimeo’s platform and channels.

Audience Awards Awards: Best Animated Short, Best Live-Action Short, Best Documentary Short, Best Student Short

In addition to 158 U.S. shorts, ShortFest 2025 reflects the global pulse of filmmaking, highlighting international works from France (32), the United Kingdom (22), Canada (22), Spain (8), Brazil (7), Germany (7) Belgium (5), China (5), India (5), Ireland (6), Mexico (5), Portugal (5), Sweden (5), Switzerland (5), The Netherlands (5), Australia (4), Croatia (4), Estonia (3), Finland (3), Iran (3), Italy (3), Norway (3), Poland (3), Slovenia (3), Taiwan (3), Turkey (3), and Ukraine (3) alongside films from Argentina, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, Georgia, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Lebanon, Lithuania, Mauritius, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Palestine, Philippines, Qatar, Reunion, Rwanda, Scotland, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Tunisia, Uruguary, Vietnam, and beyond. As a barometer of filmmaking writ large, 134 of the 311 films (43%) are directed by women, as reported by the filmmakers. The 2025 Palm Springs International ShortFest will screen the following films: 

Animation

A Blue Summer (France), directed by Juliette Ragot

As If Swallowed By Earth/Como Si la tierra se las hubiera tragado (France), directed by Natalia León

Autophagy (United Kingdom), directed by Edie Lawrence (California Premiere)

Black Tide (Reunion/Mauritius), directed by Kim Yip Tong (California Premiere)

Budō (Sweden), directed by Amanda Aagard and Alexander Toma

Can You Hear Me? (Poland), directed by Anastazja Naumenko (North American Premiere)

Caries (Switzerland), directed by Aline Höchli (California Premiere)

Cartagene (France), directed by Léa Berbach, Fabien Bernard, Lou Buisson, Paola Couturier, Marine La Villa, Théo Nouare, Marie Pacreau, and Abla Saigh (California Premiere)

Chico (France/Belgium), directed by Théo Abadie (California Premiere)

Christopher & The Bug (Canada), directed by Vanessa Esteves and Kevin Micallef (California Premiere)

Curly Joe Two Kittens Four Boxes and the Scent of Fire (USA), directed by Apo W. Bazidi and Anna Benner (World Premiere)

Cycle of Violence: Puppy Please! (Germany), directed by Felicia Bergström (International Premiere)

Dormilón (USA), directed by Olivia Marie Valdez

Dragfox (United Kingdom), directed by Lisa Ott

Forever (France), directed by Théo Djekou, Pierre Ferrari, Cyrine Jouini, Pauline Philippart, and Anissa Terrier

Forevergreen (USA), directed by Nathan Engelhardt and Jeremy Spears (U.S. Premiere)

Fountain (Iran), directed by Hazhir As’adi (International Premiere)

Headrest (Finland), directed by Heta Okkonen (North American Premiere)

Hermano Hermana (USA), directed by Rodrigo Cuartas, Jonathan Cuartas, and Michael Cuartas

Hoofs on Skates (Lithuania), directed by Ignas Meilūnas

Humantis (USA), directed by Paris Baillie 

Hun Tun (Czech Republic/France), directed by Magdalena Hejzlarová (North American Premiere)

Hurikán (Czech Republic/France/Slovakia/Bosnia and Herzegovina), directed by Jan Saska

Kaminhu (France), directed by Marie Vieillevie (North American Premiere)

La Voix des Sirènes (Italy/France), directed by Gianluigi Toccafondo

Le Charade (USA), directed by Erika Totoro 

Le Petit et le Géant (France/Brazil), directed by Isabela Costa (North American Premiere)

Luz Diabla (Argentina/Canada), directed by Gervasio Canda, Patricio Plaza, and Paula Boffo

Ma Mao (Canada), directed by Thanh Ngo

Mambo No.2 (Germany), directed by Anne Feldmeier (California Premiere)

Matilda and the Brave Escape (United Kingdom), directed by Ash Reed (International Premiere)

Mont Noir (France/Portugal), directed by Erika Haglund and Jean-Baptiste Peltier (California Premiere)

Mother of Dawn (Brazil/Portugal/Belgium/Finland), directed by Clara Trevisan (North American Premiere)

Mother’s Child (The Netherlands), directed by Naomi Noir (California Premiere)

My Teenage Blackout (France), directed by Basile Khatir (California Premiere)

No Room (Croatia), directed by Jelena Oroz (California Premiere)

On Weary Wings Go By (Estonia/Lithuania), directed by Anu-Laura Tuttelberg

Ostrich (Switzerland), directed by Marie Kenov (California Premiere)

Paradise Buffet (Spain/France), directed by Héctor Zafra and Santi Amézqueta (California Premiere)

Paradise Man (II) (USA), directed by Jordan Michael Blake (California Premiere)

Pear Garden (Germany), directed by Shadab Shayegan (U.S. Premiere)

Petra and the Sun (Chile), directed by Malu Furche and Stefania Malacchini (California Premiere)

Playing God (Italy/France), directed by Matteo Burani (California Premiere)

POW! (USA), directed by Joey Clift

Radix (Germany), directed by Anne Breymann (North American Premiere)

Red Buckets (USA), directed by Patrick Moser

Retirement Plan (Ireland), directed by John Kelly

Tapeworm Alexis & The Opera Diva (Switzerland), directed by Thaïs Odermatt (North American Premiere)

The Little Ancestor (Canada), directed by Alexa Tremblay-Francoeur

Voiceless (Switzerland), directed by Samuel Patthey

Void Spaces (Poland), directed by Marta Koch (North American Premiere)

Volcelest (France), directed by Éric Briche

Wandering Horse (USA), directed by Emily Ann Hoffman (California Premiere)

Wednesdays with Gramps (USA), directed by Chris Coopland and Justin Copeland (California Premiere)

Where Do Birds Die? (Chile), directed by Nadiela (Daniela Estay Castillo) (North American Premiere)

Whose Woods Are These (USA), directed by Kate Nartker

Words of Her (USA/China), directed by Charlene Xu 

Documentary

A Color I Named Blue (Japan), directed by Sybilla Patrizia (California Premiere)

Big Bass (USA), directed by Drew Dickler (California Premiere)

Camp Widow (USA), directed by Laura Green and Anna Moot-Levin

Campolivar (Spain), directed by Alicia Moncholí (North American Premiere)

Clear Sky (Ukraine), directed by Marcin Kundera (North American Premiere)

Common Pear (Slovenia/United Kingdom), directed by Gregor Božič (California Premiere)

Dancing in Tomorrowland (USA), directed by Jakob Roston (California Premiere)

Dears in the Headlights (South Africa), directed by Julia Jansch (California Premiere)

Everything Twice (USA), directed by Cy Kuckenbaker

Everywhere I Look (USA), directed by November Nolan

Four Feet Away (USA), directed by Natalie Faye

Georgie (USA), directed by Jennie Butler

Hasami (Scissors) (USA/Japan), directed by Toyoko Matsuo Saindon

Hello Beautiful Please Follow Back (USA), directed by Amandine Thomas

Here Come the Dykes! (USA), directed by Devon Blackwell and Paul Moakley (California Premiere)

Hold Me Close (USA), directed by Aurora Brachman and LaTajh Simmons-Weaver (California Premiere)

Hoops, Hopes & Dreams (USA), directed by Glenn Kaino (California Premiere)

In My Day (Poland), directed by Iga Lis (U.S. Premiere)

Inside, the Valley Sings (Ireland), directed by Nathan Fagan (California Premiere)

It Will Always End in the End (Canada), directed by Nancy Pettinicchio (International Premiere)

Lanawaru (Colombia/Mexico/USA), directed by Angello Faccini Rueda (California Premiere)

Love Immortal (Denmark/United Kingdom), directed by Ömer Sami (North American Premiere)

My Neighbor’s Yard (USA), directed by Kara Grace Miller (World Premiere)

One Day I Will Hug You (Palestine/Sweden/Qatar), directed by Mohammed Fares Al Majdalawi (North American Premiere)

Out Here (USA), directed by Lisa Klein

Psychedelic in the Sky (USA), directed by Matthew Salton (California Premiere)

Rat Rod (USA), directed by Jared Jakins and Carly Jakins

Replay (USA), directed by Phil Mazo

Retroperspectiv (USA), directed by Stacey Lee (World Premiere)

Richard Neutra’s Maslon House (USA), directed by Scott Goldstein, Dave Yakir

Roll Down the Window (United Kingdom), directed by Lipa Hussain

Shanti Rides Shotgun (USA), directed by Charles Frank

Sheepdogs (USA), directed by Brian Knappmiller (World Premiere)

Teddy (USA), directed by Lauren Santucci (California Premiere)

Tessitura (USA), directed by Lydia Cornett, Brit Fryer

The Building and Burning of a Refugee Camp (Sweden/Ireland), directed by Dennis Harvey (California Premiere)

The Devil Is Busy (USA), directed by Geeta Gandbhir, Christalyn Hampton

The Things We Don’t Say (United Kingdom/Rwanda), directed by Ornella Mutoni (California Premiere)

Tiger (USA), directed by Loren Waters

Time Crisis (USA), directed by Brooke Palmieri, Zac Weathers

We Beg to Differ (Ireland/United Kingdom), directed by Ruairi Bradley (California Premiere)

We Were the Scenery (USA), directed by Christopher Radcliff

While We Still Have Time (Australia), directed by Ava Grimshaw-Hall (U.S. Premiere)

Who Loves the Sun (Canada), directed by Arshia Shakiba

Wrecked a Bunch of Cars, Had a Good Time (USA), directed by James P. Gannon and Matt Ferrin

You Can’t See It From Here (USA/Colombia), directed by Enrique Pedráza-Botero

Your Opinion, Please (USA), directed by Marshall Granger

Live Action

1:10 (Switzerland/Turkey), directed by Sinan Taner (California Premiere)

A Bear in the Woods (USA), directed by Andrew Laurich (California Premiere)

A Big Hug (USA), directed by Yael Grunseit (California Premiere)

A Brighter Summer Day for the Lady Avengers (Taiwan/USA), directed by Birdy Wei-Ting Hung 

A Loud Piece of Armour (United Kingdom), directed by Molly Burdett (World Premiere)

A Reconciliation at the Donut Shop (USA), directed by Zach Tavel (World Premiere)

After Alma (USA), directed by Lorena Durán  

After the Very End (France), directed by Miriam Furniss-Yacoubi (North American Premiere)

After What Happened at the Library (USA), directed by Syra McCarthy  

Against One Another (France), directed by Badroudine Said Abdallah and Mehdi Meklat (World Premiere)

Agoge (Australia), directed by Veniamin Gialouris (International Premiere)

Almost Certainly False (Turkey), directed by Cansu Baydar (California Premiere)

Amarela (Brazil), directed by André Hayato Saito  

An Almost Successful Dating App Love Story (USA), directed by Winter Coleman (California Premiere)

An Ongoing List of Things Found in the Library Book Drop, Usually Being Used as Bookmarks (USA), directed by Kayla Abuda Galang (California Premiere)

Ana y la Distancia (USA), directed by Hansel Porras Garcia  

Apocalypse Besties (USA), directed by Kristen Buckels Cantrell (California Premiere)

Arctic Diva (United Kingdom), directed by Federico Barni (U.S. Premiere)

Are You Fucking Kidding Me?! (USA), directed by Zen Pace (California Premiere)

Aria (USA), directed by Federica Belletti (North American Premiere)

Automagic (India/France), directed by Ashok Vish (North American Premiere)

Baa-Baa! (Estonia), directed by Teresa Juksaar (World Premiere)

Baba I’m Fine (USA), directed by Karina Dandashi (California Premiere)

Bad for a Moment (Portugal), directed by Daniel Soares  

BDAY Private Dick (USA), directed by Dante Ariola (U.S. Premiere)

Beatrix is Invisible (USA), directed by Alex Farias (World Premiere)

Belly Belly (USA), directed by Gabriel Carnick  

Beograd (Serbia/USA), directed by David Milan Kelly (World Premiere)

¡Beso de Lengua! (Mexico), directed by José Luis Zorrero 

Between the Lines (Austria), directed by Niklas Pollmann (North American Premiere)

Beyond Silence (The Netherlands), directed by Marnie Blok (California Premiere)

Blackout (Egypt), directed by Ahmed ElZogbhy (U.S. Premiere)

Blood Boys (USA), directed by Jordan M. Hahn (California Premiere)

Blood Ties (France/Belgium), directed by Hakim Atoui (California Premiere)

Breastmilk (USA/Nigeria), directed by Ifeyinwa Arinze (California Premiere)

Brief Somebodies (Canada), directed by Andy Reid (California Premiere)

Burning Inside (Brazil), directed by Enock Carvalho and Matheus Farias (North American Premiere)

Call Gloria! (Argentina), directed by Malena Filmus (California Premiere)

Cattywampus (USA), directed by Jono Chanin (California Premiere)

Century Egg (Taiwan/USA), directed by Charles Barratt (North American Premiere)

Channelvue (USA), directed by Brandon Tauszik  

Chasing the Party (USA), directed by Jessie Komitor (California Premiere)

Check Please (USA), directed by Shane Chung 

Chronic (USA), directed by Taylor Landesman (World Premiere)

Chrysanthemum (New Zealand), directed by Jolin Lee (World Premiere)

Clean Slate (USA), directed by Emily May Jampel (California Premiere)

Crazy for You (Spain/USA), directed by Greta Díaz Moreau (World Premiere)

Cub (USA), directed by Sofia Rubin (World Premiere)

Cura Sana (Spain), directed by Lucía G. Romero  

Dad Doll (USA), directed by Kyle Kenyon (World Premiere)

Dandelion (USA), directed by Fiona Obertinca  

Deck 5B (Sweden), directed by Malin Ingrid Johansson (California Premiere)

Don’t Try This in the Woods (Greece), directed by Emma Doxiadi (World Premiere)

Dreams, Hopes and Rotating Dolphins (Turkey), directed by Adil Burak Aydin (California Premiere)

Driving Lessons (Ukraine), directed by Anastasiya Gruba (U.S. Premiere)

Dust to Dust (USA), directed by Annika Chavez (World Premiere)

Duty Free (Germany/Sweden/Denmark), directed by Hilke Rönnfeldt (U.S. Premiere)

Emigré (USA), directed by Usman Ally   

Enouement (USA), directed by Angel Lu

Fantas (Canada), directed by Halima Elkhatabi  

Fireline (USA), directed by Robin Takao D’Oench  

Follow Me Wherever I Go (USA), directed by Max DeFalco (World Premiere) 

Full Month (USA/Singapore), directed by Ash Goh Hua (California Premiere) 

Gaslit (Canada), directed by Anna MacLean (California Premiere) 

Gioia (France), directed by Nixon Singa (North American Premiere) 

Girlfriend Experience (Norway), directed by Ingvild Dahlgren (International Premiere)

Good Boy Banjo (USA), directed by Jackie! Zhou  

Goodbye Sun (France), directed by Hakim Atoui (North American Premiere) 

Grandma Nai Who Played Favorites (Cambodia/France/USA), directed by Chheangkea  

Grave Error (United Kingdom/USA), directed by Andrew Jonathan Smith  

Gurgling (Taiwan), directed by Christine Margaret Wu  

/HAAW/ (USA), directed by Joey Scoma

Happy Snaps (United Kingdom), directed by Tyro Heath (California Premiere) 

Hatchlings (USA), directed by Jahmil Eady (World Premiere)

Heaven Is Nobody’s (Spain/USA), directed by Hector Prats

Hide-and-Seek (Brazil), directed by Vitória Vasconcellos (North American Premiere) 

Himalia (Canada), directed by Clara Milo and Juliette Lossky (U.S. Premiere) 

Hippopotami (China/Hong Kong), directed by Lin Jianjie (JJ) 

Holy Curse (India/USA), directed by Snigdha Kapoor  

Homework (United Kingdom), directed by Jamie Di Spirito (International Premiere) 

Houston, We Have a Crush (USA), directed by Omer Ben Shachar (World Premiere) 

How Was Your Weekend? (USA), directed by Cam Banfield  

I Want to Feel Fun (USA), directed by Jessica Sanders (California Premiere) 

I’m Really Scared I’m Dying TBH (USA), directed by Lindsay Calleran (California Premiere) 

Inflatable Bear, Hourly (Germany), directed by Elisabeth Werchosin (North American Premiere) 

Interloper (USA), directed by Kerry O’Neill (World Premiere) 

Jester (United Kingdom), directed by Harry Sherriff (World Premiere)

Kisses and Bullets (USA/Iran), directed by Faranak Sahafian

Kismet (Slovenia/Croatia), directed by Žiga Virc (North American Premiere) 

Kotowari (France), directed by Coralie Watanabe Prosper (International Premiere) 

Kuchar (The Itch) (India), directed by Vaidaangi Sharma (World Premiere) 

L’Avance (France), directed by Djiby Kebe  

Leading Man (USA), directed by Amanda Michaels and Whitney Houser (California Premiere) 

Learning How to Drive (USA), directed by Tyler Cunningham (World Premiere) 

Light Can’t Escape (Australia), directed by Tim Sharp (California Premiere) 

Little Goodbyes (Canada), directed by Justine Martin (International Premiere) 

Little One (USA), directed by Lindsay Carpenter  

Little Rebels Cinema Club (Indonesia), directed by Khozy Rizal (North American Premiere) 

Little Victories (Canada), directed by Rafaël Beauchamp (North American Premiere) 

Madawa (USA), directed by Musila Munuve (World Premiere)

Made From Leakproof Plastic (Canada/United Kingdom), directed by Anastasiya Mykhaylova (World Premiere) 

Main Man (USA), directed by John de Menil (World Premiere) 

Majonezë (Italy), directed by Giulia Grandinetti (California Premiere) 

Mango (United Kingdom/France), directed by Joan Iyiola  

Masterpiece Mommy (United Kingdom/China), directed by Dorothy Sing Zhang (California Premiere) 

Max Distance (USA), directed by Marissa Goldman (California Premiere) 

Meal Ticket (USA), directed by Wes Andre Goodrich

Mean Ends (Canada), directed by Emile Lavoie  

Medusa (USA), directed by Sarah Meyohas  

Melanochaita (Greece), directed by Niko Avgoustidi (U.S. Premiere)

Melody of Love (USA), directed by Guy Kozak (California Premiere)

Mercenaire (Canada), directed by Pier-Philippe Chevigny (California Premiere)

Min’s Day Off (Brazil/China), directed by João Londres (North American Premiere)

Moon & Back (Canada), directed by Pony Nicole Herauf  

Moon Lake (USA), directed by Jeannie Sui Wonders  

More Than the Sea (Uruguay), directed by Marindia (North American Premiere)

Munchies (USA), directed by Brittany Alexia Young  

My Mother is a Cow (Brazil), directed by Moara Passoni  

Myself When I Am Real (USA), directed by Angeline Gragasin  

Nena (USA), directed by Joyzel Acevedo (World Premiere)

Nervous Energy (USA), directed by Eve Liu (California Premiere)

No Experience Necessary (USA), directed by Emily Everhard (California Premiere)

Not Today (USA), directed by Christian Meola  

Now, Hear Me Good (USA), directed by Dwayne LeBlanc (California Premiere)

On a Sunday at Eleven (Canada), directed by Alicia K. Harris  

One Day This Kid (Canada), directed by Alexander Farah  

One Night in Brooklyn (USA), directed by CJ Taglione (World Premiere)

Overcomer (United Kingdom), directed by Wale Adetula (California Premiere)

Passarinho (Mexico), directed by Natalia García Agraz (California Premiere)

Pakka (The Netherlands), directed by Iniyavan Elumalai (World Premiere)

Pedigree (USA), directed by Kai Wen Hu (California Premiere)

Pig (Netherlands), directed by Rutger Veenstra (U.S. Premiere)

Plague Season (Ecuador/Spain/USA), directed by Gabriela Calvache (World Premiere)

Play Hard (USA), directed by Winter Dunn  

Potato Potato (USA), directed by Josh Locy (World Premiere)

Premiere (USA/Israel), directed by Omer Ben-David (North American Premiere)

Public Freakout (USA), directed by Julia Bales  

Purebred (Northern Ireland), directed by Caleb J. Roberts (World Premiere)

Queen of Hearts (USA), directed by Joey Ally (World Premiere)

Ragamuffin (USA), directed by Kaitlyn Mikayla 

Rage (Spain), directed by Fran Moreno Blanco, Santi Pujol Amat (U.S. Premiere) 

Rata (USA), directed by Giselle Bonilla (U.S. Premiere)

Real (France), directed by Rodrigue Hart (California Premiere)

Rent Boy (USA), directed by Trey Chapman (World Premiere)

Rhoda (United Kingdom), directed by Alex Lawther (California Premiere)

Ruse (India), directed by Rhea Shukla (North American Premiere)

Salem on the Road (Canada), directed by Étienne Galloy (California Premiere)

Samra’s Dollhouse (Tunisia/USA/Germany), directed by Maissa Lihedheb (World Premiere)

Sauna Day (Estonia), directed by Anna Hints and Tushar Prakash (California Premiere)

She Devil (USA), directed by Allie Perison  

She Raised Me (USA/Canada), directed by Ben Lewis  

Sheep (Iran), directed by Hadi Babaeifar (California Premiere)

Shutterspeed (Belgium), directed by Jasper De Maeseneer (World Premiere)

Silver Needle (China/USA), directed by J Wang (California Premiere)

Sleazy Tiger (Scotland/United Kingdom), directed by James Ley (World Premiere)

Soap Box (Canada), directed by Jimmy G. Pettigrew (California Premiere)

Soeder (Austria), directed by Raoul Bruck (North American Premiere)

Sola (Croatia), directed by Lana Barić  

Spaghetti (USA), directed by Charissa Kroeger (North American Premiere)

Stomach Bug (United Kingdom), directed by Matty Crawford  

Stranger, Brother. (Australia), directed by Annelise Hickey (California Premiere)

Stronger (Iceland/USA), directed by Natalia Pacheco 

Sunday in August (USA), directed by Troy Charbonnet (California Premiere)

Susana (Mexico/USA), directed by Amandine Thomas and Gerardo Coello Escalante  

Synthesize Me (USA/Mexico/The Netherlands), directed by Bear Damen (California Premiere)

Szypliszki (USA), directed by Jordan Axelrod (World Premiere)

Take Care (USA), directed by Brittany Ashley  

Tanning Zone (USA), directed by Chloe East

Tapeworm (United Kingdom), directed by Daniel Rands (U.S. Premiere)  

Thanks for Having Me (USA), directed by Wylie Anderson (World Premiere)

The Beguiling (USA), directed by ishkwaazhe Shane McSauby (California Premiere)

The Blood (Spain), directed by Joaquín León (North American Premiere)

The Bride’s Curse (USA), directed by Alex Kavutskiy and Jerzy Rose (California Premiere)

The Crumbs (Norway), directed by Michael Mellemløkken Renjo (World Premiere)

The Errand (USA), directed by Hayley Marie Norman  

The Eternity of Grief (USA), directed by Adriana Ducassi (World Premiere)

The Hunters (Portugal/France), directed by David Pinheiro Vicente (U.S. Premiere)

The Last Cinnamon Roll (USA), directed by Michael Langan (World Premiere)

The Man of Shit (France), directed by Sorel França (U.S. Premiere)

The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent (Croatia/France/Bulgaria/Slovenia), directed by Nebojša Slijepčević  

The Sentry (Cambodia/USA/Norway), directed by Jake Wachtel  

The Singers (USA), directed by Sam Davis (California Premiere)

The Sunny (Ukraine), directed by Sergiy Kulybyshev (North American Premiere)

The Traveler & the Troll (USA), directed by Adam Murray (California Premiere)

The Yellow (USA), directed by Simone Faoro and Maika Monroe  

Three Keenings (United Kingdom/Ireland/USA), directed by Oliver McGoldrick (U.S. Premiere)

Three Screaming Vaginas (Canada), directed by Alexia Roc (California Premiere)

Unholy (USA), directed by Daisy Friedman (California Premiere)

Upper (Belgium), directed by Lennert Madou (California Premiere)

Visa (USA/Vietnam), directed by Chi Tran (California Premiere)

Vox Humana (Philippines/USA/Singapore), directed by Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan  

Wassupkaylee (France/USA), directed by Pepi Ginsberg  

Water Hazard (Portugal/France), directed by Alexander David (California Premiere)

We Had Fun (France), directed by Linda Lô (North American Premiere)

What Freedom (USA), directed by Paul James (California Premiere)

What If They Bomb Here Tonight? (Lebanon), directed by Samir Syriani (U.S. Premiere)

What the Heck Is Going On. (USA), directed by Greg Rubner  

What’s the Deal with Birds? (USA), directed by Taylor Bakken (California Premiere)

Where Time Stood Still (Georgia/USA), directed by Nino Benashvili 

Where We Came From (United Kingdom), directed by Nick Virk (California Premiere)

Whitch (USA), directed by Hoku Uchiyama  

White Trash (Finland), directed by Teppo Airaksinen (International Premiere)

Woof. (USA), directed by Edward Hoke (World Premiere)

You Know You Wanna Stay (USA), directed by Alex Heller (World Premiere)

Your Own Flavor (USA), directed by Alisha Ketry (California Premiere)

Yú Ci (Fish Bones) (USA), directed by Kevin Xian Ming Yu  

Zari (USA/India), directed by Shruti Parekh  

The ShortFest Forum, held from June 27-29, 2025, will offer a dynamic lineup of thought-provoking panels, intimate roundtable discussions, and immersive interactive sessions, bringing together industry luminaries, emerging filmmakers, and esteemed guests. Details on the distinguished 2025 ShortFest Jury and the full Forum program will be announced on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

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Allie Anthony

The California Highway Patrol is recruiting for officers, dispatchers and inspection specialists.

The California Highway Patrol office in Indio primarily serves the Coachella Valley, but their reach extends beyond—patrolling Interstate 10, State Routes 62, 86, and 177, along with unincorporated areas in between.

Right now, the CHP is actively looking for individuals between the ages of 20 and 35 who meet the qualifications to join the team.

As a CHP officer, you’ll receive competitive pay, full medical benefits, and a defined benefits retirement plan. More than just a job, it’s a career committed to public safety, law enforcement, and making a real impact on California’s roadways.

The department stays ahead with up-to-date training and modern technology, ensuring officers are always prepared to serve.

If you’re driven, community-focused, and ready to take on a meaningful role, you can explore the many career opportunities CHP has to offer here.

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