about us
“ Lexington Film Festival was founded on a belief that independent cinema deserves not only to be seen — but to be celebrated.”
Established in 2022, the festival held its first edition in 2023 and quickly became a platform for bold voices and boundary-pushing storytelling. Hosted annually in Lexington, Kentucky, it brings together filmmakers, cinephiles, and industry leaders to share, learn, and discover.
Now preparing for its third edition in 2025, the Lexington Film Festival remains committed to championing emerging talent and fostering global artistic dialogue.
WHO WE ARE
We are a story-driven, community-rooted film festival
Founded in 2022, Lexington Film Festival is dedicated to spotlighting bold, independent filmmaking from around the world — while honoring the cultural heartbeat of Kentucky.
We believe cinema is more than entertainment
It’s a platform for social dialogue, creative risk, and personal truth. We champion underrepresented voices, experimental forms, and unforgettable stories that challenge and connect.
We are building a space for global artists and local audiences
From our red carpet to our roundtables, we’re cultivating a home for those who dare to create and those who come to experience something real.
OUR JURY
Meet the distinguished voices shaping this year’s competition — acclaimed directors, producers, critics, and festival veterans from around the world.
Ethan Nakamura
Independent Film Curator
Andrew Delaney
Short Film Director
Chen Yi
Cinematographer
Patricia Lombardo
Screenwriter & Script Editor