American Film Showcase (AFS) is the United States’ flagship international film and TV public diplomacy program, connecting people through the power of visual storytelling. AFS supports international filmmakers through cultural exchanges and mentorships, and builds cross-cultural networks of creative professionals. We are thrilled to present our delegation of global filmmakers from Bangladesh, Jordan, Malaysia, and Slovakia at IDFA 2024.

AFS is an initiative of the U.S. Department of State and is produced by the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts.

Projects:
Queer As Punk by Yihwen Chen
In a predominantly Islamic Malaysia, a Muslim queer punk band, Shh...Diam!, led by trans man Faris, are rebels with a cause, fighting against conservative traditions and religious extremism for a space to exist through their music.

Do Magic by Vera Lackova
To lift the curse of a spell on her family, the director sets out on a journey to find the last living Roma witches in Europe. Will they be able to break the cycles of trauma that the Romani people have endured since the Holocaust?

Waiting for Winter by Farid Ahmad
When summer flooding recedes, a fearless, homeless single mother fights for her dignity, freedom and a safe home.

Moderators: Heidi Fleisher and Lisa Hasko