The Stallion Whisperer Contract, My House, My Father, I Could Eat Episode 3, Sandwiched, Skyward: The Sport Rocketry Revolution, Trail End - Block run time 1:30:31
From competitive rocketry and equestrian dreams to family, food, and one final journey on horseback, Curious Lives takes us inside worlds both familiar and unexpected. These stories celebrate the passions, relationships, and personal journeys that make every life uniquely its own.
The Stallion Whisperer Contract - dir. Dedi Felman - 14:28
A broke, unconventional groom is hired to help an arrogant US Equestrian Team rider rehabilitate his spicy horse and secure an Olympic spot.
My House, My Father - dir. Dylan Coty - 15:32
A family home is used as a vehicle to explore the life and death of the man who built it, as well as the people who still live there today.
I Could Eat Episode 3 - dir. Rick Bedrosian - 13:50
A New York based musician and a few of his close friends investigate the distinctive sounds and appetizing fare at three women owned restaurants in Elmhurst, Queens’, “Little Thailand Way”.
Sandwiched - dir. Meg Swertlow - 09:44
Caught between her insatiable Gen Alpha child and boundary-lacking Baby Boomer parents, a burnt-out Millennial Mom tries to reclaim her sanity.
Skyward: The Sport Rocketry Revolution - dir. Matthew Middendorf, Kaitlyn Krikorian - 14:57
Follow Tim and Ashley Van Milligan as they prepare for and compete in the World Spacemodeling Championships. Set against a growing global fascination with space, the film reveals a passionate international sport built on STEM, mentorship, family, and the freedom to experiment, build, and fly.
Trail End - dir. Shannan Keenan - 22:00
While fulfilling a promise to his late wife, an ailing man and his aging horse embark on one final trail ride across Kansas.
Screenings are followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
About SIMI Film Fest
Now in its fourth year, SIMI Film Fest returns for nine extraordinary days with its most ambitious program yet: 103 films, 69 music videos, youth filmmaking, industry events, and live orchestral film music, all brought together in one festival built to celebrate every craft of filmmaking.
At its heart, SIMI Film Fest is about putting great movies on the big screen and giving the public the opportunity to discover original work from filmmakers around the world. From features and shorts to documentaries, animation, genre films, youth projects, and music videos, the festival offers audiences stories and creative voices they may not encounter anywhere else.
But screening exceptional work is only part of our mission. SIMI Film Fest is equally committed to helping filmmakers propel their careers. This year’s expanded program includes meaningful industry connections, filmmaker field trips, panels, networking opportunities, more than 25 awards, and the new SIMIFF Jury Prize: a three-month mentorship with CAA agent Matt Smith for one standout filmmaker.
The 2026 festival also introduces the SIMIFF Film Music Competition, culminating in a live concert with the Simi Valley Symphony Orchestra. Selected composers will hear their original scores performed before a live audience, highlighting the essential role music plays in bringing stories to life.
SIMI Film Fest is where audiences discover remarkable films, where every filmmaking discipline is valued, and where talented artists gain recognition, relationships, and real opportunities to move forward.
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