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Film Screening Type: In-Person

A computer sits in the background as the various windows are in the foreground; in one of the browser windows, a young Indian woman points at an object falling.

September 17, 2026

Our Pockets Are Full

This animated documentary travels through the memories of a childhood toy, a loved one's watch, and a bottle of hot sauce from a lifetime ago. This film screens as part of the Best of CineYouth 2026 shorts program.

A blueish river reflects a building and is surrounded by lush grass.

September 17, 2026

Songs of Gentle Night

After death, they become a dark moon. A filmmaker reflects on his father after the death of his grandmother. This film screens as part of the Best of CineYouth 2026 shorts program.

A young Mexican man embraces his grandmother tightly as she holds pink flowers.

September 17, 2026

La Esperanza

Through archival footage and candid conversations, a Mexican immigrant family considers the impact of 25 years of separation at the border and their enduring hope for reunion. This film screens as part of the Best of CineYouth 2026 shorts program.

A young Black woman poses in bright sunglasses in front of a flowing Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park.

September 17, 2026

Folded Stories

“It’s more than just clothes.” In this spoken-word film, fashion becomes the story, exploring the identities and memories woven into every thread. This film screens as part of the Best of CineYouth 2026 shorts program.

An East Asian young woman laughs as she runs away from her previous night's suitor.

September 17, 2026

The Shoe Thief

When a girl who steals shoes from her one-night stands discovers a pair she doesn't remember taking, she must track down the owner—and confront what she's been running from at home. This film screens as part of the Best of CineYouth 2026 shorts program.

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