Fi WIPS
A nonfiction work-in-progress screening series
Contribute to the creative process today to help shape the stories of tomorrow.
The Film Independent Works-In-Progress Series (aka Fi WIPS) gives members of the film community and the public advance access to new documentaries, including the opportunity to participate in in-depth conversations with filmmakers.
Fi WIPS offers nonfiction filmmakers a place to share stories that are still being developed in a safe and supportive environment, and receive constructive feedback that will get their projects ready for festivals and distribution.
Fi WIPS screenings are held throughout the year in the Film Independent Theater. Events are featured in the Film Independent newsletter – sign up now to make sure you don't miss out.
Submit Your Film
For more information, or to submit your in-progress documentary for consideration, please email artistdevelopment@filmindependent.org.
Though the program is open to filmmakers located anywhere, the director and/or key members of the creative team must be able to attend the screening in person.
Baby Doe
Monday, November 4, 2024 | 7:00 pm PT
Film Independent Theater
As a young woman in a conservative Christian community, Gail gave birth alone and left her newborn in the woods. Decades later, she’s arrested for murder, despite her claim that the baby was stillborn. As her trial approaches, Gail must confront her denial and shame to reconcile with her past.
Director/Producer/Cinematographer: Jessica Earnshaw
Producer: Holly Meehl Chapman
Moderator: Alana Waksman
Admission is free. Please RSVP here.
in love, in memory
Monday, July 22, 2024 | 7:00 pm PT
Film Independent Theater
To preserve delicate memories of her son and buried histories of the city he was killed in, a mother composes an elegiac portrait of love, loss, and legacy with her community.
Director/Producer: Drew Swedberg (in-person)
Director/Producer: Shalon Buskirk (virtually)
Moderator: Daniel Cardone
Exodus Stories
Monday, May 6, 2024 | 7:00 pm PT
Film Independent Theater
Through intimate access, EXODUS STORIES follows the gripping high stakes journeys of three Central American immigrants who join the tumultuous 2018-19 mass migrant caravans fleeing threats, violence, and seeking refuge in the United States at a time when asylum is under siege. Their unwavering determination and resilience are tested, raising the crucial question: in a world where hope is scarce, can their immigrant spirit prevail?
Director/Producer: Ilse Fernandez
Producer: Michele Farinola
Moderator: Daniel Cardone
Untitled Wastewater Documentary
Monday, January 29, 2024 | 7:00 pm PT
Film Independent Theater
As America’s aging wastewater system begins to fail, one plant does all it can to stay afloat. Plant manager Dustin Price, together with his dedicated team, battle aging infrastructure, “forever chemicals” and the misconceptions of an odor-averse public to keep Portland, Maine clean and healthy.
Director/DP: Alex W Lewis
Director/Writer: Kaitlyn Schwalje
Producers: Rebecca Stern, Justin Levy
Editors: Katharina Stroh, Alexander Heringer
Moderator: Daniel Cardone