7th Annual Dunedin International Film Festival - January 9th - 12th, 2025
7th Annual Dunedin International Film Festival - January 9th - 12th, 2025
The Dunedin International Film Festival (DIFF) is an exhilarating celebration of global cinema set in the vibrant heart of Dunedin, Florida. This dynamic festival provides filmmakers with an incredible platform to showcase their original work and connect with the growing community of film lovers in Florida. With a special focus on both short films and feature-length films, DIFF welcomes submissions from storytellers around the world, sharing diverse perspectives that spark conversation and foster a deeper understanding of our global culture.
Each year, the festival transforms Dunedin’s cultural corridor into a bustling hub for creativity, where artists, filmmakers, and audiences come together for a week of unforgettable cinematic experiences. From independent gems to international blockbusters, the Dunedin International Film Festival curates an exciting slate of films that represent the world’s best and brightest storytellers. Whether through powerful documentaries, thought-provoking dramas, or experimental art films, DIFF offers something for every taste, celebrating the art of film in all its forms.
Beyond the screen, DIFF fosters a dynamic space for collaboration and networking, supporting the ever-growing arts and cultural scene in Dunedin. It is a place where filmmakers can share their work, exchange ideas, and inspire one another in an atmosphere charged with creative energy. By bringing together international talent and Florida’s local artists, DIFF is poised to shape the future of cinema in the region while helping to elevate Dunedin as a cultural destination for the arts.
By becoming a member of the Dunedin International Film Festival, you are not just supporting a single event—you are joining a movement that is cultivating a vibrant, forward-thinking arts community in Florida. Your membership helps fund the festival’s mission to provide unconventional performance platforms, build innovative performance spaces throughout Dunedin, and support emerging filmmakers from all corners of the world.
The festival is driven by the power of passionate volunteers who, together, create extraordinary events, build immersive stages, and foster an inclusive environment where creativity knows no bounds. Your support allows DIFF to continue its mission of growing the film community in Florida and offering unique cultural experiences that leave a lasting impact on both the local community and the international filmmaking world.
Join us in making a difference—be part of something big, exciting, and transformative! Volunteer, contribute, and experience firsthand what it’s like to be a part of the magic of the Dunedin International Film Festival. Together, we can bring stories to life and help elevate the art of film to new heights in the heart of Florida.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 MEMBERS
Linda Broughton
Justin Catacchio
Julie Chalhoub
Bill Coleman
Patti Coleman
Paul Cook
Janette Donoghue
Michael Drake
Katie Ducharme
Jesika Freeman
Cameron Ilan
Yhali Ilan
Bozenna Intrator
Sheree Johnson
Kim Kenda
Angela Kennedy
Laura Maiocco
Monique McLaughlin
Iris Reyes
Michael Rudolph
Lisa Seward
Dina Smeltz
Austen Van Der Bleek
Vicky VanWinkle
Terry Zimmerman
THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 MEMBERS
Austen Van Der Bleek
Blair Barnette
Bozenna Intrator
Brian Maiocco
Candy Barnette
Cameron Ilan
Dina Smeltz
Hallie James-Booth
Iris Reyes
Jesika Freeman
Joanna Cannon
Katie Ducharme
Kim Florio
Kim Kenda
Kristina Garcia
Kunal Jain
Laura Maiocco
Lisa Seward
Mary Greenwood
Paul Cook
Patt Miles
Ron Barnette
Sarah Macdonald
Sheree Johnson
Stephanie Joines
Tami Ehmig
Victoria Jorgensen
Yhali Ilan
THANK YOU TO OUR 2022 MEMBERS
Sara Bruya
Julie Chalhoub
Barbara Dina
Katie Ducharme
Kristina Garcia
Sean Forrester
Jesika Freeman
Cameron Ilan
Kimberly Kenda
Sarah MacDonald
Laura Maiocco
Lisa Seward
Dina Smeltz
Patt Miles
Austen van der Bleek
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021 MEMBERS
Anna Constantine
Anita Adams
Aubrie Canfield
Austen Van Der Bleek
Barbara Dina
Cameron Campbell Ilan
Carl Zimmerman
Deborah Kynes
Dina Smeltz
Elizabeth Brincklow
Hallie James-Booth
Janet Henderson
Jesika Freeman
Julie Chalhoub
Joy Forrester
Katie Ducharme
Kalle Karu
Kim Kenda
Kirsten Stiff-Walker
Kristin Campbell
Kristina Garcia
Laura Maiocco
Lewis Henry
Lizzy Perez
Lisa Seward
Michael Drake
Melissa McNearny
Nancy Hall
Patt Miles
Paul Cook
Ray Bouchard
Ron Barnette
Sara Bruya
Sarah MacDonald
Sean Forrester
Seth Walker
Sheree Johnson
Stephen Campbell
Susan Behar
Susan Smith
Theodore Stone
Yhali Ilan
Zeke Durika
THANK YOU TO OUR 2020 MEMBERS
Anita Adams
Aubrie Canfield
Austen Van Der Bleek
Barbara Dina
Cameron Campbell
Carl Zimmerman
Deborah Kynes
Elizabeth Brincklow
Hallie James-Booth
Janet Henderson
Jesika Freeman
Julie Chalhoub
Joy Forrester
Katie Ducharme
Kalle Karu
Kirsten Stiff-Walker
Kristin Campbell
Kristina Garcia
Laura Maioccao
Lewis Henry
Lisa Seward
Madison Thayer
Melissa McNearny
Nancy Hall
Patt Miles
Paul Cook
Ray Bouchard
Ron Barnette
Sarah MacDonald
Sean Forrester
Seth Walker
Sheree Johnson
Stephen Campbell
Susan Behar
Susan Smith
Theodore Stone
Yhali Ilan
Zeke Durika
THANK YOU TO OUR 2019 MEMBERS
Barbara Dina
Blair Kooi
Cameron Campbell
Candy Barnette
Christina Sztanko
David Brushwood
Dave Birkenhauer
Dawn Burke
Deborah Kynes
Dianne Wheatley
Janet Bowers
Jenny Diaz
Joanne Cannon
Kalle Karu
Kathleen Groom
Laura Maiocco
Liza Johnson
Michael Lange
Mary greenwood
Mary Conte
Nancy Hall
Ron Barnette
Samantha Miller-Indresano
Susan Behar
Tami Ehmig
We gather every month in person or online to watch films and discuss how the film industry in Florida is evolving. Join the membership today and contribute to the essential conversation necessary for the thriving film industry in Florida.
Cameron has a short lifetime of filmmaking experience from growing up on film sets in Orlando Florida during the 80s and 90s. She was on the board of directors for the Downtown Los Angeles Film Festival while working in luxury brand advertising in Hollywood, CA. Cameron is the President and Director of Programming for the Dunedin Film Festival.
Jesika Freeman is the Chair of the Board for the Dunedin Film Festival. As a Dunedin resident for over a decade, Jesika brings her passion for service to the Box Office by meeting and greeting the filmmakers, visitors, and locals of our delightful city of Dunedin! Jesika also serves on the Auxiliary Board of our VFW Post 2550. The Dunedin Auxiliary supportsour veterans and their families.
Paul Cook, also known as DJ BackBone, can be found throughout Pinellas County hosting specialty music nights. His business, MultiPlayer Agency, is known for throwing Instant Parties and elevating private and corporate events. He teaches music theory classes to aspiring DJs at local schools. Paul is the Treasurer of the Dunedin Film Festival
Dina Smeltz serves as the Secretary of the Dunedin Film Festival. She is a public opinion polling expert and the Vice President of Public Opinion and Foreign Policy at the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. A proud resident of Dunedin, Dina studied Russian and East European politics and history at the University of Michigan, where she developed an appreciation for the impactful films of the Soviet era. She is excited to contribute to the Dunedin International Film Festival in her role as Board Secretary.
Yhali Ilan is the creative art director of the Dunedin Film Festival. He is best known for his caricature and mural work in Downtown Dunedin, Florida. Yhali is the founder of the Dunedin Art Cave and leader in art creation throughout the city of Dunedin. Yhali's murals can be seen through Dunedin at Blur Nightclub, the Pinellas Art Cave, and Bon Appétit.
Katie Ducharme has been singing and acting professionally since the age of six. She is an actor and licensed realtor. Katie is a member of the Architectural Review Committee for the City of Dunedin and has been the official National Anthem Singer for the Toronto Blue Jays Spring Training singing the Canadian and American Anthems since 2014.
Austen van der Bleek is the Creative Director of Open House Conspiracy. Austen’s dedication to the craft earned him ‘Best Club DJ’ in 2019’s Best of the Bay awards. He has played at SXSW, Detroit around Movement Electronic Music Festival, Hulaween and Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival.
Seth Walker is a content creator for Dunedin and Dunedin TV. Walker is a lifetime Dunedin resident committed to the growing film industry in his home time. Seth produces, writes, and directs Florida Local films.
Iris is a filmmaker in Pinellas County and a member of WIFT-Tampa Bay. Iris loves volunteering her time to strengthen the film community in Florida. Her expertise is in production coordination, production management, and locations.
London-based Production Designer Blair Barnette has designed and art directed major film and television productions in The UK, USA and across Europe. Blair is currently the Chair of the British Film Designers Guild, a committee member of Artscenico and a member of Women in Film and TV.
Justin Catacchio is a television,stage and motion picture production professional that calls Dunedin, Florida home. He hosted and produced "Good Morning Dunedin" for DunedinTV. His life long love for cinema has fueled his excitement for the Dunedin International Film Festival since its inception.
Kim Kenda has a strong background in multimedia communications, making her a valuable asset to the Dunedin International Film Festival. Kim’s passion for cinema drives her dedication to showcasing diverse films. She believes in the power of film to foster community connections and inspire dialogue. Her work not only highlights the festival but also strengthens the bonds within the local community.
Janette Donoghue is a dedicated philanthropist and community member actively involved with the Dunedin Film Festival and the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce. As an events coordinator, she focuses on initiatives that promote arts and culture, enriching the local community. Her passion for non-profit organizations drives her commitment to fostering creative projects that benefit Dunedin. Janette's efforts not only support the festival but also strengthen the cultural fabric of the community she loves.
Angela Kennedy is a board member of the Dunedin Film Festival, bringing a diverse background in human resources to her role. She currently serves as an HR Consultant at MammothHR and HRAnswerLink, and has experience as an HR Generalist at Kass Shuler Law Firm and as a Recruiting Specialist at HSN. Angela holds a B.A. in English Literature and Criminology from the University of South Florida, where she graduated in 2004. Originally from Tampa, Florida, she is passionate about supporting the arts and community through her involvement in the festival.
Monique McLaughlin, a seasoned makeup and hair veteran, brings a wealth of experience to the Dunedin Film Festival board. Her impressive portfolio spans print, television, commercial, and film, showcasing her talent across diverse platforms. Known for her versatility and ability to work with all skin tones and hair textures, Monique excels on set, often completing and transitioning looks with remarkable speed. Her expertise and creativity make her a valuable asset to the festival and the film community.
We partner with ProArtsFL.com to produce FREE community events in Dunedin, FL while creating paid "gigs" for artists.
We mobilize our teams of volunteers to build un-conventional performance stages throughout the city of Dunedin. Join us and see what can be accomplished when you get an impassioned team to focus and entertain.
Our community is full of people who want to help make art. Our members are current a former producers, editors, painters, actors and film makers. We are all teachers.
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