By Thanasi Asimakopoulos, Arts & Photography Editor @photosbythanasi
Video content has proven to be a valuable force of communication in addition to an amazing source to display creativity. Throughout the world, we have been fortunate enough to be a part of the growing fabric of new creatives driving the concepts of “Art.” The New York City International Fashion Film Festival (FFF) has been the biggest supporter of these artists. I recently caught up with the festival’s director, Pedro Oberto - for a quick talk about the intent and direction of the festival which ran on September 6th 2024.
How and when did the idea of NYCIFFF come to mind?
The idea for NYCIFFF came to me during the pandemic. When New York, like the rest of the world, shut down, no fashion shows or live events were happening, and many fashion creatives (designers, makeup artists, hairstylists, and filmmakers), began turning to a massive video content creation to showcase their work in different platforms. As the city slowly reopened, I screened one of my fashion films for Marc Bouwer, and the reception was amazing. There was an audience consuming film and fashion and loving what we were doing. I saw how many fellow creatives were struggling during this time, and I wanted to open up this space to all of them. Long story short in 2022, we opened the submission process, received 300 submissions, and held our inaugural edition in September 2023. The reviews were great, and we turned it into an annual festival. We’ve just wrapped our 2024 edition and are already preparing for 2025.
What does the committee look for when reviewing films?
NYCIFFF is all about fashion. To be selected, a film must be fashion related. it could be a fashion film, a fashion documentary, experimental or student film or even micro fashion film under 1 min. Once films pass our preliminary review, they go to our panel of experts. We focus on three key criteria: film quality (cinematography, direction, colors, editing, sound design, and storytelling), fashion (garments quality, originality, creativity, models or actors performances, makeup, hairstyling), and lastly but no less important individuality. Every artist has their own unique voice, and we look for films that reflect that inner creativity and push boundaries in the world of fashion.
How has your platform provided opportunities for filmmakers?
NYCIFFF has opened doors for both established and emerging filmmakers. In 2024, we screened 60 films from 20 countries at the Museum of Arts and Design. One standout example is Yajaira Serrano, a student from the small city of Guanajuato, Mexico. She submitted her project at no cost, and after being selected, we provided support for her visa process so she could attend the screenings. Not only did she attend, but she also won the People's Choice Award, a huge moment for her career. Beyond screenings and awards, our partnership with the app WeShorts allows global audiences to watch the winners’ films online. It’s about building community and providing a platform for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals and collaborators, making it more than just a festival. It’s a career-building experience.
Do you have plans on expanding your reach?
Absolutely! When I say international, I mean it. This year, we began forming partnerships with organizations and festivals worldwide that share our mission, including Fashion Clash in the Netherlands. Their film winner was screened during our September 2024 festival, and I’m honored to be one of the judges for their 2024 edition in November. I’ll be attending, and we plan to select a student film from their festival to be an official selection at NYCIFFF 2025. We’re also exploring ways to expand the festival to other cities, turning NYCIFFF into a year-round experience that continuously supports filmmakers with opportunities for exposure.
What can audiences expect from the festival in the next few years?
Audiences can expect even more diversity in the films we showcase. Diversity and visibility are key for us, and we aim to highlight as many international projects as possible. We’re also introducing new categories and expanding our digital reach, ensuring NYCIFFF continues to evolve as a global platform for innovative fashion films.
What has the partnership between the festival and the Museum of Arts and Design meant to the producers of the event?
The partnership with the Museum of Arts and Design has been very import in elevating the festival. It’s provided a prestigious venue that aligns perfectly with our mission of blending art and film. For us as producers, collaborating with an institution that’s equally passionate about creativity has been an incredible experience, and we’re excited to continue building on this partnership in future editions.
What is the significance of having the festival during Fashion Week?
Fashion Week is when New York becomes a global hub for fashion and creativity. Visitors from all over the world, and across the U.S., come to the city. Our festival is the perfect kickoff to a week full of fashion adventures. There’s no better time of year to create the right environment for filmmakers to showcase their work, as the city’s artistic energy is at its peak..
What words of inspiration can you provide for creatives who would like to build their own platform?
Find what you’re truly passionate about. Wanting or liking something isn’t enough, you need to be obsessed with it. Don’t be afraid to take risks, and be persistent. Building your own platform, whatever it may be, takes time. But if you’re dedicated to your vision and willing to adapt and grow, it will come together. Believe in yourself, surround yourself with people who share your passion, stay true to your values, help others whenever you can, and always focus on making a positive impact with your work.
