About this Event
Under the Surface Film Block:
The Shape of Her Smile (9 mins): Alone in the mirror, a woman fixates on her reflection and considers a life altering change until an unexpected conversation with her daughter reframes not only her appearance, but how she sees herself.
Be the Explorer: Confined by Long COVID to her brother's childhood bedroom, Lizzie wrestles with illness and disability through a silent dialogue with the boyhood souvenirs that surround her.
The Quiet Between: After a deep loss, two teenage girls find strength in leaning on each other.
Pretty Ugly (1h 20 mins): PRETTY UGLY is an investigative documentary uncovering the ugly truth about toxic chemicals in personal products and cosmetics.
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AFF26: 17 years of powerful paradigm-shifting films.
We search the globe each year for the best Independent Filmmakers to bring you beautiful, thoughtful, entertaining films that inspire as much as they inform.
As a community of filmmakers, we offer films that do more than entertain.
We aim to raise awareness and inspire positive action through immersive film & media, filmmaker panels, networking events, and community partnerships to create a more peaceful, healthy, and just world.
The most important ingredient is - YOU!
Throughout the festival, your experience is enhanced with industry panels, special media presentations, and gala events! Mix and mingle with fellow attendees, connect with directors, producers, and influencers from all over the world.
Enjoy conscious art, music, yummy food, and special events.
Attend the Awards ceremony - you get to vote on your festival favs, and at the closing night gala, dance to tunes spun by a celebrity guest DJ, enjoy gourmet vegan food donated by our wonderful sponsors, and celebrate 16 years of paradigm-changing film.
Presented by Heal One World, a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable org.
Showcasing over 100 films! Shorts, Features, Narrative, and Documentaries in Santa Monica!
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Dates: 10/13-10/18 2026
Opening Night Location:
Laemmle Monica Film Center
1332 2nd Street
Santa Monica, California 90401
Miles Memorial Playhouse:
1131 Lincoln Blvd
Santa Monica, California 90403
Main Festival Location:
Illusion Magic Lounge
1418 4th Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
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Website - Info and Tickets:
No refunds will be provided.
Festival phone: 323-709-3456
Festival email: [email protected]
Video - Festival trailer:
https://vimeo.com/1124917815?fl=pl&fe=sh
Event venue & nearby stays
Illusion Magic Lounge, 1418 4th Street, Santa Monica, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.