Breakthrough Health Film Festival

The Breakthrough Health Film Festival at Tulane University is an inspiring showcase of storytelling through film that promotes health and wellness, aiming to spark conversations, foster understanding, and inspire action towards a healthier society for all.

Films and post-screening conversations will shine a light on human stories from community builders, advocates, filmmakers, producers, and artists to broaden our perspective on the challenges and triumphs shaping our understanding of health and well-being today. These voices offer fresh insights into the social and systemic issues impacting our communities.

Join us for a reception after each screening! Enjoy refreshments while connecting, networking, and continuing meaningful conversations sparked by the inspiring films. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet others passionate about health, wellness and storytelling.

Sunday, April 6 | Doors at 1pm & Program 1:30pm - 6pm

Description:

This day highlights the strength and adaptability of communities as they navigate challenges and rise above adversity. Through stories of cultural preservation, activism, and transformative movements, the films demonstrate how resilience empowers communities to advocate for justice and dignity.

Shorts include: , This is New Orleans ,(other shorts TBA)

Feature: Pre-screening of (Thomas LaVeist)

Monday, April 7 | Doors at 4pm & Program 4:45 - 9pm

Description:
This day centers on the power of individuals and communities to make meaningful choices despite facing structural barriers. The featured films amplify stories of agency and decision-making in contexts where access to resources, rights, and opportunities is often constrained. They encourage reflection on how societal systems shape health, identity, and justice.

Shorts: Smells Like; Hidden Barriers | Health Care's invisible minority; Sol in the Garden

Feature: (Leah Galant & Maya Cueva)

Tuesday, April 8 | Doors at 4pm & Program 4:45 - 9pm

Description:
This day explores the profound power of storytelling to cultivate empathy, reframe narratives, and promote healing. Through diverse voices and intimate portrayals, the films showcase how stories can build bridges, honor lived experiences, and inspire action toward belonging, dignity, and well-being.

Shorts: Ekbeh; Enclave: Mar, Marasmo, Maravilla; Imelda is not Alone

Feature: Alive Inside (Michael Rossato-Bennett)

Presented by the Tulane Health Equity Institute, Partners for Advancing Health Equity, and Tulane Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine.

Co-sponsored by Tulane Digital Media Practices, Tulane University Libraries, The Roger Thayer Stone Center for Latin American Studies, and The Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.

Partners: NOVAC

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1440 Canal Street, New Orleans, United States