Several independent films or filmmakers connected to the Greater Meadowlands Region were recently honored at the 23rd annual Garden State Film Festival (GSFF).
Recognized worldwide, this year’s festival took place March 27 to March 30 in and around Asbury Park and Cranford, and is rooted in celebrating the independent film genre and providing a forum for filmmakers to showcase their work. The GSFF also offers opportunities for novice and aspiring filmmakers, actors, and others interested in the film industry to meet and network.
Aside from screenings, there are red carpet celebrity events, panel discussions, live podcasts, cocktail parties and an awards banquet.
The films are shown in curated screening blocks, which could include a short film, a feature-length presentation and a music video. There are also panel discussions and Q&As after each block. Entrants come from all over the world, but there are specific categories for locally-produced films and high school.
And The Homegrown Winners Are…
Best Homegrown Pilot: “West of the City: La Cafeteria.” Tom Ryan – Director; Jim Thalman – Producer.
Filmed in Jersey City, this is the latest of three proof of concept shorts for the West of the City series in development by film company HExTC (Exploits on the Hudson Productions).
Taking place in the 1980s, La Cafeteria features a talented, mostly bilingual 15-member cast, and was also nominated for Best Acting by An Ensemble Cast. The explores a carefree time of video arcades and first kisses that’s shattered when four 12-year-olds witness a horrific act at the hands of three of their fathers.
“We are committed to expanding the notion of what is ‘American’ by featuring stories that reflect the variety of experiences, backgrounds, races, and cultures that make up the American landscape,” according to HExTC website.
Best Homegrown Documentary Short: Metro Community Church: 20 Years of Embracing Weakness. Peter Ahn – Director; Peter Ahn, Bob Klein – Producers.
Filmed in Englewood at the Metro Community Church, the documentary covers the 20-year journey of a diverse congregation finding common ground in shared vulnerabilities.
“Still in shock—and deeply grateful! Our short film “20 Years of Embracing Weakness” was not only accepted into the Garden State Film Festival… it won the Home Grown Documentary Short award! Who would’ve thought a film about a Weak Church would be recognized like this?,” Pastor Peter Ahn said on social media.
Homegrown High School Winners
◾New Jersey Hometown Documentary Short – High School (Sponsored by New Jersey School Boards Association): Westwood Regional High School. “Forever a Cardinal.” Emma Lagatol — Director.
◾Best Homegrown Comedy: Park Ridge High School. “You’re Gonna Pay For That.” Michael DeMar, Caroline Sheridan — Directors.
◾Best Homegrown Drama: Donald M. Payne Sr. School of Technology in Newark. “Into the Spotlight.” Desiree Osborne — Director.
About Garden State Film Festival
Launched in 2002 by film industry veteran Diane Raver and now deceased Hollywood actor Robert Pastorelli (1954-2004), the Garden State Film Festival was fueled by their desire to bring a dynamic and inclusive film event to New Jersey. The festival made its debut in 2003 and was met with instant acclaim.
Since then, the festival has earned the support of numerous industry luminaries, including Glenn Close, Laura Dern, Matthew Modine, Christopher Lloyd, Batman producer Michael Uslan, Kurtwood Smith, James Gandolfini, Clarence Clemons, Bruce Springsteen, Chaz Bono, Xander Berkeley, Diane Ladd, Bebe Neuwirth, Armand Assante, Alec, Stephen, and Daniel Baldwin, and the late Ed Asner, its most devoted supporter,
At its core, the Garden State Film Festival celebrates the independent film genre, providing a platform for both local and global filmmakers to share their work. It also honors New Jersey’s pivotal role in cinematic history — from Thomas Edison’s invention of the first film cameras and projectors in Menlo Park, to Fort Lee, home of the nation’s first film studios.
Held each spring in Asbury Park, Cranford, and the surrounding areas, the festival creates a vibrant space for aspiring filmmakers, actors, and industry hopefuls to connect with seasoned professionals in a setting designed for inspiration, education, and collaboration. Beyond showcasing film, the festival plays a vital role in energizing New Jersey’s arts, commerce, and cultural landscape.
