The University of Idaho announced on April 23 that the KINO Short Film Festival will return to Moscow for two days, April 24-25, featuring short film screenings, workshops, and networking events at venues across the city.
The festival is recognized as the longest-running short film festival in the Pacific Northwest. It aims to bring together filmmakers, students, and cinema enthusiasts for immersive storytelling experiences and professional development opportunities.
This year’s event includes an expanded schedule of educational programming. Industry professionals with decades of experience in film and television will lead workshops throughout each day. Venues include the Kenworthy Theatre, the 1912 Center, Borah Theater in the Bruce M. Pitman Center, and Mikey’s Gyros.
Festival director Kyle Howerton said, “We’ve done a lot of work to grow KINO this year. There’s really nothing like it in the Pacific Northwest — a short film-focused event that brings together screenings and networking opportunities for college students and regional professionals, along with truly world-class workshops.”
A highlight is a master class by Emmy-winning writer Jeffrey Townsend titled “Seven Hacks to Improve Your Storytelling,” scheduled for Friday afternoon at the 1912 Center. Townsend said he values mentoring young filmmakers: “Once I realized KINO was developed by folks at the university, I was even more interested. Most film festivals emphasize networking and trying to hustle for the next project, but I appreciate that with a university behind it, the focus is on learning. For me, that’s a sweet spot. I didn’t have much mentorship early in my career so I value the opportunity to coach young filmmakers when I can.”
Other sessions include cinematographer Ian Christenberry’s workshop on lighting techniques Saturday at U of I’s Radio and Television Building; a morning conversation with independent producer Daniel Bekerman; faculty-led sessions on low-budget music videos; and hands-on lighting demonstrations by Michael Notar.
The festival also features four curated blocks showing 45 short films produced by or featuring talent from around the Pacific Northwest region.
Russell Meeuf said: “The KINO Short Film Festival is becoming the best festival in the state for aspiring filmmakers to share their work and connect with their peers.”
Organizers say KINO continues its tradition as both an educational platform for emerging talent and an important part of Idaho’s film community.