RFN Indie Fest Season 2, Episode 3: A Night of Creativity, Connection and Courage
Thank you.
On Saturday, August 9, we gathered at The Park RVA for the third-quarter installment of RFN Indie Fest’s second season. The evening opened with The Hitchhiker Effect, a feature-length paranormal dramedy that captivated the room with its blend of mystery, humor, and heart. Following the screening, writer/director Zack Van Eyck joined us for a thoughtful Q&A, guided with warmth and insight by moderator Zakiya K. Roberts.
By the close of the night, we shared 18 remarkable films—11 from right here in Virginia, and 7 from across the country, including New York, California, and Michigan. Thirteen filmmakers joined us in person, each bringing their unique voice and energy to the room. Showcasing local talent will always be one of my greatest joys as a festival director, and I believe it’s also my responsibility as an arts leader to nurture emerging artists. Creative passion is fragile—it thrives with encouragement and can fade without it. That’s why RFN Indie Fest is committed to making space for students, whose voices are not just the future but an essential part of the creative ecosystem.
Our Student Spotlight block proved exactly that, featuring Virginia’s most promising up-and-coming filmmakers. Their screening and Q&A revealed not only their technical skill but also their resourcefulness, offering a masterclass in how to create meaningful work with limited means—and, more importantly, how to create despite those limitations.
Throughout the night, the range in storytelling truly shone. I overheard audience members say, “I didn’t expect to be so moved by the family documentary”—a nod to “Young Legend” by Donovan J. Gardener & Praheme. Another remarked, “The therapy movie was so well done”, referring to “Three Sessions.” by Erica Michelle Singleton. And “COSMO”—with its own unique charm—found many new fans. Programming a festival where there’s something for everyone, from sci-fi to cinéma vérité, is not just our goal—it’s our mission. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a cinephile, or simply someone who wants to be involved in your community, our aim is to inspire and provoke, as well as to entertain.
Our visiting filmmakers from New York and Michigan brought their own sparks to the evening, seamlessly blending into our creative family and finding common ground in the universal language of storytelling. It’s always moving to see how art collapses distance, turning strangers into friends.
The night closed with a moment of celebration as the short crime thriller “The KKKennel”—a student film—directed by Julian Banks, claimed the coveted Audience Choice Award—proof that bold stories still have the power to surprise, challenge, and unite us.
We’re already looking forward to our November Season Finale. Join us—because the next great story is waiting to be shared.
~Lisa