On Saturday, May 10, Amplifi Napa Valley proudly stepped into the world of film as the official sponsor of the North Bay Filmmakers Showcase, held at the historic Jarvis Conservatory in Downtown Napa. The event marked a powerful new chapter for Amplifi, expanding our mission of uplifting bold, community-rooted storytelling beyond the stage and onto the screen.

From experimental short films to deeply personal narratives and Sundance-recognized works, the evening highlighted the incredible creative talent growing right here in the North Bay.

🎬 Three Curated Screening Blocks
The showcase unfolded in three acts, each featuring thought-provoking films and followed by engaging Q&As with the filmmakers:

Block One: Philosophical, Experimental & Stories of Making It
Audiences were introduced to stories that blurred genre lines and explored personal journeys, including Don’t Wake Me, Heathens, Bridge Escort, This is How I Got Here, and UnCredited, which follows a woman navigating fertility treatment while managing a film festival.

Block Two: Carry On – Reflections on Humanity
This block spotlighted resilience and identity, featuring The Next Day and Big Sonia, a moving portrait of a Holocaust survivor and matriarch who dedicated her life to fighting hate.

Block Three: On the Move
The final set included international perspectives and family-centered storytelling. Highlights included:

• The Unforgettable Augustus Post, a festival favorite
• El Neceser Rojo, a beautifully crafted piece written by Azalea Aguilar and directed by her son Sergio Garcia
• Travelling Past, produced by Amplifi’s own Executive Director, Olivia Dodd
• Trokas Duras, a Sundance Award-winning short by Jasmin Garcia

🎤 Each screening ended with live filmmaker Q&As, offering guests a rare glimpse into the creative process, the stories behind the stories, and the personal journeys that inspired each piece.

🍷 A Night of Connection
Following the screenings, guests gathered for a celebratory reception—connecting filmmakers, community members, and partners over shared appreciation for storytelling, artistry, and local impact.

🎞️ What This Means for Amplifi
This showcase was more than just a film event. It was a celebration of what’s possible when creative voices are nurtured, elevated, and brought together in community. As Amplifi expands into new storytelling formats, we remain committed to investing in the artists, producers, and cultural leaders shaping Napa Valley’s creative future.

Thank you to all who joined us, and to the talented filmmakers who continue to inspire us.

Stay tuned for more events and artist features at amplifinapavalley.org, and be sure to follow @amplifinapavalley for the latest updates.