Emerging Filmmakers of the Upper Valley Screening + Panel

See curated shorts by Upper Valley filmmakers, including past Emerging Filmmakers selections and our local 2026 winners. Then, participate in a talkback with the artists about what it’s like to make independent films in the Upper Valley!

THE FILMS

Braised (Thịt Kho) by Huong Vu

Clutching a heart-rending secret, Maggie makes an unannounced visit home to reconcile with her mom. A bowl of braised pork pushes their bond to a breaking point.

Huong Vu

Huong Vu is a Philadelphia-based Vietnamese writer, director and cinematographer. Born and raised in Vietnam, Huong moved to the United States to pursue her higher education in 2018; she studied Film Production and Critical Ethnic Studies at Drexel University. Huong’s works focus on familial conflicts, the diaspora, food, and memory. She has a particular affection for narratives involving imperfect Asian women who persistently grapple with their missteps. Huong is a 2023 Cinema & Television BIPOC Filmmaker Grant awardee and a recipient of Scribe Video Center Student Filmmaker Fund.

Talent Show by Noah Mauchly

What if you had all the talent in the world? What would you do with it?

Noah Mauchly

Noah Mauchly is an animator and short filmmaker born and raised in New Hampshire. He is a 2020 graduate of Kingston University’s School of Art and currently works as a freelance animator and for YouTube under the moniker Noah Sportsman. His first film, MOUSE was completed in 2021 and has been screened in several festivals across the US and Europe. He has recently moved to the Upper Valley and is excited to be a part of the community.

I Have Something To Get Off My Chest by Cedar O’Dowd

A trans man recovers from top surgery while his partner cares for him. Live action scenes blend with experimental cyanotype animations.

Cedar O’Dowd

Cedar O’Dowd (they/them) is a mixed media filmmaker and White River Junction cryptid. They grew up in the DC area before completing a BA in film and media studies at Colorado College and making their way to Vermont. When they’re not making films, they enjoy playing roller derby, getting wild with papier-mâché, and going outside.

when was amerikkka great? by Jordyn Lich

a film made in june 2020. a primary source document.

Jordyn Lich

Jordyn Lich (they/them) is a filmmaker, media educator, community organizer, and professional rabble–rouser from South Florida who loves complicated board games and organizing the working class. They live in Enfield, NH with their lovely wife, girlfriend, and slightly wilting plants.