MUBI: New American Portraiture – At Film Fest Knox
December 18, 2025
“It seems right that Knoxville would be the site of a renewed focus on a regional, independent American cinema.”
“It seems right that Knoxville would be the site of a renewed focus on a regional, independent American cinema.”
“It’s one thing to admire a mission statement, another thing entirely for a festival to introduce me to two filmmakers I didn’t previously know and push me to seek out more of their work on my own time.”
Awards were given in the American Regional Cinema Competition, the Made in Tennessee Competition, and the Elev8or Pitch competition.
“Such spaces are an invaluable contrast to our increasingly homebound viewing habits, even more for the community and critical discussion than for the bigger screens.”
The lineup of nearly 60 films includes award-winners from the world’s top fests, lost classics, and Robert Redford’s final leading role.
The fest will honor Sailor Bear films and screen 19 Tennessee-made films.
The Best Film winner will receive an Oscar-qualifying theatrical run, courtesy of Regal.
The third annual fest will take place November 6–9 in partnership with Regal.
“We love hidden gems, and festivals that not only look great on paper, but show heart in person.”