GI Film Festival San Diego Celebrates 10 Years of Showcasing Films that Honor Military Service Members and Veterans

GI Film Festival San Diego Celebrates 10 Years of Showcasing
Films that Honor Military Service Members and Veterans
16 films will screen over three days – May 7-9, 2025; Tickets on sale starting March 4

SAN DIEGO, CA – March 5, 2025 – This year, the GI Film Festival San Diego commemorates a decade of presenting films for, by and about military service members and veterans. The 10th annual military-themed film festival returns May 7-9, 2025 at the Museum of Photographic Arts at the San Diego Museum of Art (MOPA @ SDMA) in Balboa Park.

Over the last decade, the film festival has become a trusted destination where service members and veterans feel their stories are honored and truthfully represented, fostering understanding, respect, and community in the San Diego region through the power of authentic military storytelling and cinema. Each year, the festival showcases a diverse selection of films that highlight not only service members and veterans but also caregivers, spouses, and children—emphasizing that military service is a family commitment.

Since 2015, the military-themed film festival has presented over 238 films created by international, U.S., and San Diego County filmmakers, drawing in diverse audiences totaling more than 13,000 guests. Additionally, throughout its history in D.C. and San Diego, the GI Film Festival has welcomed notable personalities, including documentarians Ken Burns and Ric Burns, General (Ret.) Richard Myers, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; the late US Senator John McCain, actors Gary Sinise, Glenn Close, Matthew Marsden, Lou Diamond Phillips, Joe Mantegna, George Takei, and Jeffrey Wright.

“I can’t believe it’s been 10 years since we brought the GI Film Festival to San Diego,” says Jodi Cilley, founder and president, Film Consortium San Diego. “While much has changed since the inaugural festival, our mission remains the same, which is to honor service member and veteran stories and bring together military allies, civilians, and cinema-lovers under one roof to learn what it really means to serve. I’m proud to say that we have built a strong community that celebrates authentic military storytelling and provides a space for service members and veterans to share their experiences, talents and love for filmmaking.” The Film Consortium San Diego has been a trusted partner of the GI Film Festival San Diego since its inception.

Three days of films that recognize, reveal, and remember service members and veterans

This year’s lineup features 16 films that showcase stories from WWII, the Vietnam War, the Global War on Terror, the fall of Afghanistan, and training in peacetime. Themes also include deported veterans, post-traumatic stress (PTS), the impact of service on families, spouses and children, as well as mental health. Notably, the festival includes a film about the Montford Point Marines, the first African American men to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, who not only transcended enemy lines but also overcame barriers of racial segregation (“Triumph Over Prejudice: The Montford Point Marines”). Another film explores how Hollywood’s leading filmmakers contributed to America’s victory through their heroic service in the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) Field Photographic Branch (“Filming Under Fire: John Ford’s OSS Field Photo Branch”). Additionally, this year’s Opening Night film, “SHEEPDOG,” is a narrative feature that follows decorated U.S. Army combat veteran Calvin Cole on his journey to trauma recovery. Every year, the GI Film Festival San Diego also showcases films by military service members on non-military themes, and this year’s selection includes films on vampires, LGBTQIA+ stories, and mental health within the Pacific Islander community.

Of the 16 films, three are feature-length, 13 are shorts, and five have a San Diego connection. Seven films were made by or feature service members or veterans, three are student films, and five were directed by women. There are also three returning filmmakers, including Devin and Jeanne Scott who participated in the GI Film Festival San Diego in 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2024, and Daniel Bernardi who participated in the 2023 festival.

Each year, the films selected for the GI Film Festival San Diego reveal the struggles, triumphs, and experiences of service members, veterans, and their loved ones, as well as highlight lived experiences rather than institutional narratives or civilian interpretations of war typically seen on the big screen. By challenging preconceptions about service and offering multidimensional portrayals of veterans, service members, caregivers and families, the GI Film Festival San Diego provides a platform for filmmakers of all backgrounds and skill levels to present their unique stories through the cinematic arts.

A film festival that provides a trusted space for authentic military storytelling

Since its inception, the festival has successfully bridged the military-civilian gap by creating greater awareness of what it means to serve to help audiences better understand the true military experience.

In addition to film screenings, the festival hosts panel discussions with filmmakers, actors, documentary subjects and subject-matter experts after each screening. These discussions give audience members an opportunity to ask questions, and reinforce the festival’s mission to expand the definition of service, break down stereotypes and highlight the breadth of experiences within the military community.

From the beginning, the GI Film Festival San Diego has provided a space for audiences and filmmakers to connect, fostering a sense of shared understanding and camaraderie. This camaraderie, familiar to service members and veterans alike, serves as a poignant reminder that while at the GI Film Festival San Diego they are not alone. The festival is a place where new filmmakers are excited to have their work featured and past filmmakers return, and attendees look forward to it year after year. The festival is a vital platform for appreciating the art of film and understanding both present-day and historical events that shape our lives and country.

Ways to attend the three-day festival

The film screenings at the GI Film Festival San Diego are open to all. The online box office will open March 4. Attendees can secure their tickets for individual screenings or multi-ticket packs to attend multiple screenings. Tickets for most screenings will start at $15 each, or $10 for military, veterans and KPBS members. Because some films may cover sensitive topics, organizers recommend screening guests to be at least 18 years of age.

For up-to-date information on the 2025 film festival, how to attend and ways to get involved, visit GIFilmFestivalSD.org. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor of the GI Film Festival San Diego, contact GIFilmFestivalSD@kpbs.org.

About GI Film Festival San Diego

Established in 2015 and now celebrating 10 years, the GI Film Festival San Diego is a multi-day showcase of films for, by and about military members and veterans. Films featured in the festival reveal the experiences of service members, veterans and their families. The festival also provides veterans and service members with an opportunity to further their creative skills.

Documentaries, shorts, narratives, and feature-length films are presented. The festival includes local films, highlighting San Diego’s filmmakers, events, people or places.

Film screenings are followed by discussions with filmmakers, actors, documentary subjects, and/or subject-matter experts. The festival presents awards in multiple categories, honoring excellence in filmmaking. The festival is organized and produced by KPBS in partnership with the Film Consortium San Diego.

Major support for the 2025 festival is provided by premier sponsors Fredericka Manor and Wesley Palms. Additional sponsors are Filippi’s Pizza Grotto, Navy SEAL Museum San Diego, Scatena Daniels Communications, AMC Networks, Resounding Joy,
Singleton Schreiber, US Bank and Wounded Warrior Project. Additional support is provided by the California Film Commission, FMF Pandion, the Navy League of San Diego and Southwestern College.

KPBS is a member of the San Diego Veterans Coalition and the San Diego Military Family Collaborative.

About Film Consortium San Diego

The Film Consortium San Diego is a social venture that stimulates film and television production in the region and increases networking, employment, education, funding and distribution opportunities in film, television and new media. The Film Consortium hosts and organizes the San Diego Film Awards, San Diego Film Week, and various screening and networking events.

About KPBS

KPBS connects, reflects and serves all of our communities with trusted programming and dialogue. KPBS delivers this content to more than 1.3 million audience members weekly via multiple platforms, including television, radio, and digital media. As a public service of San Diego State University, education is a core value – from children’s programming to community discussions on important issues our region is facing, to local news coverage. KPBS provides stories that make us think, help us dream, and keep us connected. For more information, visit kpbs.org.

The following film lineup is listed in alphabetical order:

“Aunt Cindy and The Alchemist”: Aunt Cindy and The Alchemist revolves around a seemingly ordinary family whose lives take a surprising turn. The story centers on Elena, a spirited woman whose life with her husband and son appears idyllic. The family’s dynamic shifts when Elena takes a road trip through Italy and discovers the true meaning of love. As the story unfolds, the family’s long-buried secrets and ambitions rise to the surface, leading to an unexpected and life-altering twist in the final moments. Narrative Short | Directed by Devin Scott; Produced by Jeanne Scott | 11 minutes | 2024 | USA | Made By or Starring Military or Veterans | Local Film | San Diego Premiere

“The Bet”: Set in the final months of World War II, this harrowing short film captures the stark reality of warfare and the moral weight carried by those on the front lines. Unflinching in its depiction of war’s psychological toll, the film explores themes of desensitization, morality, and the loss of humanity in combat. Narrative Short | Directed by Nathan Cragun | 4 minutes | 2023 | USA | Made By or Starring Military or Veterans | San Diego Premiere

“Bring Them Home”: After producing the music video for their song “Excuse My Accent,” artists Rob Young Walker and Andrei “Drei Ros” Rosca met Hector Barajas, a deported American military veteran. Upon hearing his story, they embark on a journey to shed light on the issue. Bring Them Home is a powerful, award-winning documentary exploring the harrowing issue of deported veterans—a group who have honorably served yet find themselves exiled by the very nation they defended. This gripping film highlights the stories of non-citizen soldiers who are deported, intertwining personal sacrifice with national identity. Documentary Short | Directed by Rike Boomgaarden and Tamara Jatchvadze; Creative Direction by Rob Young | 28 minutes | 2022 | USA | Local Film

“Crush”: Jim “Crush” Duricy was a father, husband and a United States Air Force test pilot at Eglin Air Force Base with the 46th Test Wing Squadron. On April 30, 2002, he flew his last mission testing the speeds of the F-15C with the AIM-9X Sidewinder missile. He was required to reach the speeds of Mach 2 in order to complete the test. During the mission, his plane tore in half right behind the cockpit. He ejected from the plane, sending him in the fast airstream and killing him instantly. His legacy serves as an inspiration to the next generation of pilots. Documentary Short | Directed by Sean Denney | 7 minutes | 2024 | USA | Student Film | West Coast Premiere

“DOLDRUMS”: A Vietnam War veteran is haunted by memories of his fellow soldiers and the Viet Cong medic who treated his wounds at a great personal cost. Narrative Short | Produced and Directed by Le Chau | 14 minutes | 2023 | USA | Student Film | Made By or Starring Military or Veterans | San Diego Premiere

“THE END OF THE LONGEST WAR”: In August 2021, the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan and Kabul’s airport became the center of a frantic evacuation. The military airlifted 124,000 people under growing threats. Amid the chaos, a devastating suicide bombing claimed the lives of 13 U.S. service members and over 200 Afghans. From August 16th to September 2nd, Marine Cpl. Trevor Sheng witnessed the evacuation firsthand. Through his account, this documentary offers an unfiltered look at America’s final days in Afghanistan during the 2021 Kabul airlift. Contains strong language, scenes of violence, footage of a bomb explosion and graphic imagery. Viewer discretion is advised. Documentary Short | Directed by Sydney Sheng | 20 minutes | 2024 | USA | Local Film | World Premiere

“Filming Under Fire: John Ford’s OSS Field Photo Branch”: World War II was fought on many fronts. One of them was on film. Filming Under Fire tells the story of how six-time Academy Award-winning director John Ford and many of Hollywood’s leading filmmakers contributed to America’s victory through their heroic service in the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) Field Photographic Branch. Documentary Short | Written and Directed by Dan Gagliasso; Produced by Charles Pinck | 21 minutes | 2023 | USA | San Diego Premiere

“IN THE MATCHBOX”: In rural 1967 Hickory, North Carolina, Uncle Wendell shares a centuries old family secret with his great great nephews. The truth of it all could affect and infect the entire world. LITERALLY. Narrative Short | Directed by Mike Rae Anderson; Created, Written and Produced by Jermi Little | 10 minutes | 2023 | USA | Made By or Starring Military or Veterans | San Diego Premiere

“Max: One Last Favor”: After 20 years of war, America’s chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan left hundreds of thousands of Afghan interpreters and other allies behind as the Taliban retook the country with shocking speed. Fearing retribution for his brave work with the U.S., beloved interpreter “Max” and his family of 10 are forced into hiding as they desperately struggle to escape Afghanistan before they are tracked down and punished. Meanwhile in the U.S., Max’s former brothers in arms and their network of supporters work frantically to navigate the byzantine visa process established by the U.S. government to bring these allies to safety. Told through frenzied communications between Max, his devoted Marine friend Joe and their network, the film bears witness to the surreal situation unfolding over time as the group confronts the harsh realities of a broken system and a world that has moved on. Documentary Short | Directed by Patti Bonnet | 21 minutes | 2024 | USA | West Coast Premiere

“A Place of Honor”: A Place of Honor recounts the lived experiences of veterans and gold star families from before, through and after the Vietnam War. The creation of the only memorial and museum dedicated to the lives lost in the war lead to a renewed sense of purpose and meaning. Contains some graphic descriptions and imagery of war. Viewer discretion is advised. Documentary Short | Produced and Directed by Vanessa Roth | 32 minutes | 2024 | USA | World Premiere

“Return Engagement”: Two World War II veterans from the 8th Air Force, Captain Leland Spencer (100 years old) and Dave Moore (97 years old), get together for one final toast, 80 years after they served on the same bomber in the air war over Europe. Documentary Short | Directed by Trent Jones | 9 minutes | 2024 | USA | Local Film

“Rohna Classified”: In November 1943, a World War II transport ship equipped with non-functioning lifeboats and inadequate lifebelts was sunk by one of the first radio-guided missiles ever used in war. 1,015 U.S. soldiers were killed in the attack that remains the greatest loss of life at sea in the history of any U.S. war. Uncovered classified documents reveal that neglect and oversight contributed to the large number of casualties. The government deflected responsibility by declaring the disaster classified indefinitely and ordered all survivors to remain silent. The casualty families were stonewalled and most of them went to their own graves never knowing what happened; their boys just never came home. Documentary Short | Produced and Directed by Jack Ballo | 56 minutes | 2024 | USA

“SHEEPDOG”: Decorated U.S. Army combat veteran Calvin Cole is court ordered into treatment and into the care of a VA trauma therapist in-training, who still works the night shift at a diner to pay for college. Things become even more complicated when Calvin’s father-in-law and retired Vietnam veteran shows up on his doorstep, having just been released from prison. When Calvin’s plan to run from the past blows up in his face, he learns through tough love and compassion that he must put himself back together again. Rated R for strong adult language. Contains themes of suicide and graphic imagery. Viewer discretion is advised. Narrative Feature | Written and Directed by Steven Grayhm; Produced by Colin Kane | 128 minutes | 2024 | USA | San Diego Premiere

“SHELLSHOCK”: Visceral, haunting and unrelenting, this short film plunges audiences into the fractured mind of a warrior trapped between two worlds: the battlefield and the home front. A decorated combat veteran and Navy Seal returns home only to find himself locked in a new kind of warfare—one fought in the shadows of his own mind. Reality twists and fractures as past and present collide, forcing him into a high-stakes battle for survival against an enemy he cannot see. Every moment is a fight to stay grounded. Every breath is a war against the ghosts that refuse to let him go. Contains depictions of combat-related trauma, intense flashbacks and psychological distress. Viewer discretion is advised. Narrative Short | Produced and Directed by Justin Garza | 30 minutes | 2023 | USA | Made By or Starring Military or Veterans | Local Film | San Diego Premiere

“Silent Waves”: After being violently attacked by her troubled brother, Ocean must face a tense standoff with her sister over calling the police, leading to a tragic family confrontation. Contains scenes of violence. Viewer discretion is advised. Narrative Short | Directed by Marielene Lualua Jones (“Deuce”) | 13 minutes | 2024 | USA | Made By or Starring Military or Veterans | Student Film | San Diego Premiere

“Triumph Over Prejudice: The Montford Point Marines”: Against the backdrop of a world on the brink, the Montford Point Marines transcended enemy lines and formidable barriers of racial segregation. Beginning in rural Virginia, their journey to the front lines of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War is more than a testament to their bravery – it’s a reflection of their indomitable spirit and unyielding resolve. Confronting racial prejudices, the heartbreaks of war, and the turbulent transition to civilian life, these men never wavered in their commitment. Triumph Over Prejudice dives deep into the uncharted terrains of the Black experience in the early 20th century Marine Corps, illuminating stories often shadowed in history’s corners. The film weaves personal narratives into a rich tapestry, culminating in an epic saga of heroism, perseverance, and the enduring legacy of the American veteran. Documentary Short | Produced and Directed by Daniel Bernardi | 53 minutes | 2023 | USA | Made By or Starring Military or Veterans | U.S. Premiere

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