Film festivals are usually exclusive events held in far-off locations, but that is about to change.
If you are looking for a dose of culture just outside the city, the first-ever Yahoo x Nonfiction Hotlist Film Festival is bringing the magic of documentary filmmaking directly to the public.
Taking place on August 22 and 23, this brand-new festival transforms one of the area’s largest retail and entertainment centers into a cinema hub. Best of all, it gives audiences access to incredible nonfiction films and talented filmmakers at absolutely no cost.
What to expect at the festival
Earlier this year, Yahoo Media Group and The Nonfiction Hotlist put out a global open call to elevate documentary short films. The initiative drew nearly 1,000 submissions from creators all over the world. Ultimately, 20 standout films were selected for the showcase.
Over the two-day event, these films will screen to the public at the brand-new, state-of-the-art Dream Live Performing Arts Center inside American Dream. The selections span five distinct categories: arts and culture, biography, business, nature, and sports.
Whether you want to learn about the quirky traditions of an East London pub in How Fast Can you Eat a Pickled Egg, or follow the emotional journey of an iconic New York City driving instructor in Shanti Rides Shotgun, there is a story for everyone.
You can even dive into the internet’s early days with TR(ol)L, a film about an MTV Total Request Live campaign, or watch a rural town’s wrestling legacy unfold in The Meloneers.
Special events and live performances
The weekend culminates in a special screening event on Sunday, August 23, from 3:00 pm to 7:30 pm. This highlight of the festival will feature intimate filmmaker fireside chats, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
You can also expect live performances from some of the documentary subjects themselves. The lineup includes celebrated cellist Coleman Itzkoff from the film The Final Bow, as well as a performance by accomplished country musician Joshua Ray Walker, the subject of Thank You for Listening.
Other unique guests making an appearance include arcade video game legend Eddie Esguerra and Brooklyn Nets jumbotron star Ben Wheeler.
All the details
Attendance throughout the entire weekend is completely free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you can’t make it in person, the 20 selected films are also available to stream online at the Yahoo Nonfiction Hotlist page and their YouTube channel.
- 📅 August 22–23 (Special screening event on Sunday, August 23 from 3:00 pm – 7:30 pm)
- 📍 Dream Live Performing Arts Center at American Dream (1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073)
- 💸 Free