By Renée Santos
Los Angeles, California (The Hollywood Times) 10/13/2025
Los Angeles, CA — For 21 years, the LA Femme International Film Festival has been a beacon for women storytellers — a space where female filmmakers, writers, producers, and artists come together to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Founded by Leslie LaPage, the festival returns October 16–19, 2025, to Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles for another unforgettable year of screenings, panels, and red-carpet events.
Leslie LaPage: A Visionary for Women in Film
When Leslie LaPage launched LA Femme in 2005, she recognized a gaping void in the entertainment industry — there were not enough opportunities for women behind the camera. Her mission was bold: create a festival that would elevate women’s creative voices, provide access to industry networks, and celebrate authentic female-driven storytelling.
Two decades later, that vision has flourished. Under LaPage’s leadership, LA Femme has become one of the most influential women’s festivals in the world, screening hundreds of films, honoring icons, and launching careers. What began as an ambitious idea has evolved into a thriving movement — one that continues to push boundaries and redefine the future of film.
“LA Femme is not just a festival,” LaPage has said. “It’s a platform for women to take control of their narratives and make their voices impossible to ignore.”
What’s Showing: A Few 2025 Highlights
This year’s lineup reflects the bold diversity and emotional power that have become hallmarks of LA Femme. Among the films generating early buzz:
- “Love the Skin You’re In”, directed by Kenn Michael and produced by Kimberly Ogletree, explores themes of mental health, forgiveness, and generational healing in the Black community. Featuring veteran stars Marla Gibbs and Obba Babatunde, it’s a deeply moving portrait of resilience.
- “Walking Thunder: Ode to the African Elephant”, by Cyril Christo and Marie Wilkinson, is a breathtaking documentary dedicated to the late Jane Goodall — a cinematic love letter to wildlife and conservation.
- “One Stupid Thing”, directed by Linda Yellen and starring Corey Fogelmanis and Siobhan Fallon Hogan, headlines the festival’s feature presentations, accompanied by a red carpet reception and filmmaker Q&A.
The festival will showcase over 100 films and scripts, along with industry panels, networking events, and intimate receptions where creators and audiences connect.
Honoring a Legend
This year’s Closing Night Gala and Awards Ceremony on October 19 will include a special tribute to Donna Pescow, honoring her remarkable body of work — from Saturday Night Fever to Angie, Out of This World, and Even Stevens. Pescow’s enduring impact as an actress and trailblazer makes her a fitting honoree for a festival that champions women who’ve paved the way for others.
For anyone who believes in the power of women’s voices, LA Femme is not just an event — it’s an experience. It’s where art meets advocacy, and where the next generation of filmmakers is inspired to tell stories that matter.
Join us October 16–19 at Regal Cinemas L.A. LIVE and be part of a movement that’s transforming the landscape of film — one story at a time.
Tickets and passes (in-person and virtual) are now available at https://lafemme.org.
Come celebrate 21 years of cinematic excellence, community, and the unstoppable force of women in film.
