You’re invited to join us for a theatrical screening of My First Film, including a pre-recorded conversation with co-writer/director Zia Anger, moderated by Kate Mason (Programming & Events, Film Independent).

Nearly 15 years after her initial efforts, Vita (Odessa Young) recounts the tumultuous process of directing her semi-autobiographical first feature about a young woman who gets pregnant and decides to leave home. The production, featuring her friend Dina (Devon Ross), spirals into chaos due to Vita’s enthusiastic but inexperienced approach, leading to significant disruptions and a near-fatal accident. As Vita’s project unravels, the film transitions into a reflective critique of artistic truth and the construction of narrative from personal experiences.

Following the success of her 2019 multimedia performance of the same name, My First Film serves as Zia Anger’s return to her artistic roots, revisiting her never-released film, Always All Ways, Anne Marie, from earlier in her career. Departing from the original performance’s interactive visuals and typed-out monologues, Anger’s feature debut skillfully dramatizes this past chaotic shoot and its untold truths, positioning itself as an autofictional journey that challenges the traditional confines of memoir.

From MUBI, My First Film will have a limited release beginning August 30, and be available to stream on MUBI on September 6.

 
2024, 100 minutes, color | Written by Zia Anger and Billy Feldman | Directed by Zia Anger | Featuring Odessa Young, Devon Ross, Cole Doleman, Sage Ftacek, Jane Wickline, Seth Steinberg, Abram Kurtz, Jack Anthony, Eleonore Hendricks, Eamon Farren, Philip Ettinger, Sarah Michelson, Ruby Max Fury | Produced by Taylor Shung, Riel Roch Decter | Executive Produced by Efe Cakarel, Jason Ropell, Bobby Allen, Ashley Connor, Billy Feldman
 

Registration Information

Film Lover Members are guaranteed access to, and receive priority entry at this event. Arts Circle Members are guaranteed access, and receive both priority entry and reserved seating. Email membership@filmindependent.org for more.

All Film Independent Members and the general public can register for this event starting at 6:00 pm PT on Tuesday, August 20. | Registration is free; one registration per Membership. | Proof of Member status is required to complete registration.
 

Tickets/Parking

On the day of the event, registrants may pick up tickets as early as one hour prior to the scheduled start time – look for Film Independent signage. Tickets are nontransferable and for general, unreserved theater seating only (except for Arts Circle Members). Attendees must be in their seat(s) at least 15 minutes prior to the advertised start time or seat(s) may be released. Entry/seating will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may not enter the venue without the Member who registered them present. Registration does not guarantee entry, even with a ticket in hand.

Masks are optional. This is subject to change as we continue to monitor public health guidance.

Landmark Sunset offers three hours of free parking with validation; $2.00 every 15 minutes thereafter, with a daily maximum of $24.00. The garage is open 24 hours – enter from Laurel Ave. or Crescent Heights Blvd.
 

Accessibility

Film Independent is committed to hosting events that are accessible. For inquiries regarding accessibility, or to request an accommodation, please contact us at accessibility@filmindependent.org or 323 556 9305.
 

Screening Policies

Availability window and registration capacity may vary; always register as early as possible. Limit one registration per individual, per event.

Attendees are required to follow all rules and guidelines as laid out by Film Independent and/or its partners. If a guest has been registered for an event by a Member, these policies shall apply to that guest. Violation of policies may result in suspension or termination of Membership/access to future events.

Event details and guest participation are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.