The pandemic has proven that creative people can find creative solutions. Like many other festivals this year, the Katra Film Series is taking its annual summer series online. Featuring 30 shorts and seven features, the series will virtually debut the work from Aug. 24-28. Selections include a variety of genres like the animated short “Master Moley” from Leon Joosen, the narrative short “Extra Innings” from John Gray, and the feature-length “Lament” from Claudio Bitencourt and Diego Lopes.
Katra will also provide filmmaker talkbacks via Zoom for the full festival experience, as well as a socially-distanced awards ceremony on Aug. 29 to close out the festival.
Geoffrey Guerrero, founder and executive director, has had his work showcased festivals and won a number of awards on the circuit. With the Katra Film Series, Guerrero gives emerging filmmakers and screenwriters a shot to showcase their work as well. Talking to Backstage, Guerrero shared some insight on what the film series has to offer.
Tell us a little about the Katra Film Series.
Katra Film Series is an international film festival dedicated to championing the works of emerging filmmakers and screenwriters.
Why was the Katra Film Series founded?
Katra was formed to provide more opportunities for filmmakers from around the world, with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
What’s one thing you wish people knew about film festivals right now?
In this current climate, film festivals are dealing with financial challenges due to COVID-19. We wish people understood how complicated it is to put these festivals together and that we rely on our reasonable entry fees to stay afloat. We get tons of requests for fee waivers and it’s simply not possible.
Is there anything new you’re excited about offering now that the event is virtual?
What’s amazing about the virtual film festival is that we can showcase much more content and provide outlets.
You have a wide variety of categories, including things like trailers and screenwriting. Why do you feel it’s important to showcase that type of work?
It’s important to showcase trailers because they highlight new works by up-and-coming talent and screenplays are the blueprint for all films.
How to Network a Film Festival What sets your event apart from the other film festivals?
We provide a genuine opportunity to interact with fellow filmmakers and provide tens of thousands of in-kind prizes every quarter to help launch the career of new filmmakers.
What do you look for in submissions?
Original, bold stories.
What advice would you give someone who is just starting out in the industry?
No more excuses. Pick up your iPhone and make a movie. One minute, two minutes—that’s all you need.
Any major success stories to come out of the Katra Film Series?
Our first annual grand prize winner, Felix Thompson, just directed a Netflix episode of “Letter for the King.”
