YOUTH CINEMEDIA

SBIFF is happy to be partnering with Youth CineMedia again this year. Youth CineMedia is a local Santa Barbara organization that teaches documentary filmmaking to diverse groups from both urban and rural communities. Founded by Osiris Castañeda in 2002, YCM focuses on creating films that address social justice issues, helping to create positive change through the lens of today’s next generation of filmmakers.

The shorts program will show for FREE on Saturday, February 15th at 11:00am at SBIFF’s Film Center Auditorium 1.

YOUTH CINEMEDIA 2025 SHORT DOCUMENTARIES

Beauty in the Banal
Marcel opens up about sustainable fashion and the art of simple living, revealing the extraordinary beauty found in creations at Marcel Hemp.
Directed by Natalie Mastroni – United States – World Premiere

Duende
A San Diego band takes Isla Vista by storm, mixing music, mayhem, and memories.
Directed by Gianna Cagliostro – United States – World Premiere

Haunting of the Amargosa Hotel
A young couple embarks on a daring adventure, searching for the truth behind the eerie legends of a haunted hotel.
Directed by Sasha Gray – United States – World Premiere

Heal the Ocean
The story of how a community-wide effort, led by Hilary Hauser, sparked a movement to protect and restore the ocean.
Directed by Roberta Kuliesiute – United States – World Premiere

Objects of Curiosity
Local artist Dan Levin stays true to himself as he shares the power of art and his own story, built one piece at a time.
Directed by Roberto Varela – United States – World Premiere

Stand Up
Santa Barbara comedian Chris Williams takes us through the highs and lows of his unpredictable journey in stand-up comedy.
Directed by Makayla Zamacona – United States – World Premiere

Titans: Reefs on SB Oil Rigs
This film dives into the debate over whether oil rigs are fossil fuel failures or fragile ecosystems now at risk.
Directed by Sheena Rock – United States – World Premiere

Viver
A soulful journey through the horizons of the Carrizo Plains, where a man and his dog wander together in search of timeless memories.
Directed by Nico Kalin – United States – World Premiere