New Jersey’s vibrant arts scene is always offering something compelling, and for those who appreciate powerful narratives and diverse perspectives, the annual Women in Media-Newark International Film Festival is a true gem. This isn’t just a collection of films; it’s an immersive celebration of women’s storytelling, where cinematic artistry meets a profound sense of purpose and a passionate drive for action. Now in its remarkable 16th year, this festival has solidified its place as a vital platform for showcasing the talent and vision of women filmmakers from around the globe.
The festival, organized by the dedicated team at Woman In Media-Newark, is a non-profit organization with a powerful mission: to educate the public about global issues facing women, utilizing the impactful mediums of film, video, and new media. Each year, the programming focuses on fresh, creative perspectives that not only amplify women’s voices but also courageously confront pressing global issues.
The 16th Annual Women’s International Film Festival, running across two weekends – July 31st to August 2nd and August 7th to 9th, 2025 – promises an even more dynamic and thought-provoking lineup. Attendees can expect a bold selection of narratives from international and emerging filmmakers, many of whom are women, who delve into complex realities. This year’s themes include deeply relevant topics such as migration, the pervasive issue of violence against women, explorations of human sexuality, the challenges of child marriage, and powerful stories of resilience and self-image. From experimental shorts that push artistic boundaries to hard-hitting documentaries and compelling feature films, the festival ensures audiences will engage with a wide spectrum of artistic expression and human experience.
The festival offers free screenings, making these vital stories accessible to everyone. The opening night, Thursday, July 31st, will take place at the New Jersey Historical Society in Newark. A highlight of this evening is the screening of The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence of Menopause, a documentary feature that bravely confronts the often-neglected menopause crisis, challenging societal and medical shortcomings, and advocating for a revolutionary approach to women’s health.
The program continues with a rich tapestry of films. On Friday, August 1st, also at the New Jersey Historical Society, don’t miss Black People Don’t Get Depressed, a personal and poetic documentary exploring mental health issues among creatives in African and diaspora communities, offering insights into myths, stigma, and solutions. Saturday, July 27th (note: this appears to be an early screening, so confirm specific dates if planning attendance), at the Newark Public Library, will feature Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story, a documentary aiming to fuel the impact and legacy of dancehall legend Sister Nancy.
The second week of the festival maintains this high caliber of programming. Thursday, August 7th, features Power, Not Persuasion: The Susan Sandler Legacy, which recounts the history of a staggering political transformation and the woman who played an oversized role in that process. Friday, August 8th, offers a virtual screening of 24 Days Without You, a documentary sharing one woman’s harrowing story with Amniotic Fluid Embolism, a rare and often fatal complication of childbirth. The festival concludes on Saturday, August 9th, at Newark’s Akwaaba Gallery with Looking for My Anchor, a documentary exploring an artist’s story of friendship, survival, and the determination to hold onto one another when everything else is slipping away.
This international film festival is a true testament to the power of cinema to inspire, entertain, and move. The films presented hail from over 14 countries across five continents, each offering a unique lens into the lives, struggles, and triumphs of women worldwide. As festival director Pamela Morgan insightfully notes, “It’s a reminder that while our cultures may differ, our humanity and our fight for dignity are universal.”
Beyond the captivating film screenings, the festival also takes time to honor significant community contributors with Community Service Awards. This year’s honorees include The Honorable Louise Scott Roundtree, Lorna Johnson, J.D., Dr. Karma Warren, Michelle Ralph-Rawls, and Gilda Rogers, recognizing their impactful contributions.
The Women in Media-Newark International Film Festival is more than just an event; it’s a movement pushing forward with intention, amplifying women’s stories and the voices of women filmmakers. It creates essential space for dialogue, healing, and transformation through the arts. For those eager to support and celebrate women in film, this festival is an unmissable opportunity right here in New Jersey.
To delve further into the world of film and television, and discover more about the vibrant cinematic landscape across the Garden State, explore our dedicated section on film and TV: https://explorenewjersey.org/film-tv/.
