ReadingFilmFEST will return to downtown Reading Nov. 6-8 for its 12th annual celebration of independent cinema, featuring three days of film screenings, filmmaker discussions, educational programming and special events.
Founded in 2015 by working filmmakers alongside the Reading Film Office, the festival was created as an event “by filmmakers, for filmmakers and film lovers.” Organizers said the festival continues to emphasize interaction between visiting filmmakers and audiences through Q&A sessions, networking opportunities and other events throughout the weekend.
A centerpiece of this year’s festival will be the Women Filmmakers Block on Saturday, Nov. 7, featuring Miss Representation: Rise Up, directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom.
Building on the original Miss Representation, the documentary examines how artificial intelligence, deepfakes, social media and emerging technologies are contributing to new forms of misogyny while highlighting women and girls working to create change through advocacy, resilience and innovation.
Following the screening, the festival will host a discussion panel featuring members of the film’s production team and individuals featured in the documentary. Audiences will also hear a special message from Siebel Newsom.
The program is being presented in partnership with the American Association of University Women and the League of Women Voters.
“Our mission has always been to use film as a catalyst for conversation,” said Eliza Taylor, festival director of ReadingFilmFEST. “We’re not simply presenting an important film. We’re bringing people directly connected to it into the room with our audience and creating an opportunity for the conversation to continue after the credits roll.”
The festival has also confirmed a special screening of The Welcome Table, with director and Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Josh Fox scheduled to appear for a discussion panel following the film.
The Oscar-nominated short A Lien will also be screened as part of programming presented in partnership with the Greater Reading Immigration Project. Organizers said the films and accompanying conversation will focus on immigration, community and the experiences behind the stories.
Animation will receive a spotlight during the festival with a curated showcase of award-winning independent animated films, including work recognized at SCAD and Sundance. Organizers are also developing a community animation presentation, with the featured film to be announced.
Several industry-focused educational programs are planned. Jared Hoffa, an Emmy and Telly Award-winning producer and co-founder of Pixquid, will lead sessions examining film distribution, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in independent media.
New York director, writer, producer and acting coach Joe Whelski will present “From Stage to Screen,” a workshop for actors ages 16 and older focused on adapting performances from theater to film and television.
The festival will open with a VIP gala at the historic Horatio Trexler Mansion, formerly home to Reading Elks Lodge No. 115.
The 27,000-square-foot French Empire Revival building, dating to 1869, is undergoing an extensive restoration by Shuman Development Group as it is transformed into an event destination. Organizers said the ReadingFilmFEST gala will be among the premier events held at the mansion following its renovation, welcoming filmmakers, special guests, sponsors and VIP passholders.
Additional programming throughout the weekend will include independent features, documentaries, narrative shorts and student films, along with StudentFEST, Made in Reading, filmmaker Q&As, networking opportunities, awards and special events.
Taylor, an Emerson College graduate, has more than two decades of professional experience in photography, film production and production management. ReadingFilmFEST is led by Board President Tracy Schott, a filmmaker and one of the festival’s founding creative leaders.
“A film festival without filmmakers, is just ‘going to movies’. We wanted to create an event that was much more inclusive, intimate, and interesting!” Schott said.
Working alongside the Reading Film Office, the festival also seeks to showcase Reading and Berks County’s creative talent, architecture and potential as a location for film production.
Additional film selections, special guests and schedule information for the 2026 festival are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
