Every October, filmmakers, actors and movie lovers gather for the Mill Valley Film Festival (MVFF), an 11-day celebration of world-class cinema that runs from Oct. 2nd through Oct. 12th. Known for its mix of indie gems, Oscar hopefuls and student showcases, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience stories from around the world, all just a short drive from Redwood. This year’s festival featured 139 films from over 40 countries, showcasing a truly global range of stories and perspectives.
For student filmmaker Denver Humphrey, the festival was a moment to share her story. Though it was her first film, the experience left a lasting impact.
“I made a film titled ‘Find Me In the Void,’ where I was the writer, director and actor ,” Humphrey said. “It was so lovely, so stressful, but a lovely experience, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I loved everything about it, and I am so excited to be accepted into this festival [for the Youthworks Program],” Humphrey said.
Mary McLain, a longtime Mill Valley resident, plays a key role in making the festival feel like home, quite literally.
“I serve as a hospitality donor, which means we open up our home to directors, educators and volunteers who come to Mill Valley from other parts of the country. It’s fascinating for us to meet people who are here to enjoy our beautiful town,” McLain said.
When asked what she’s most proud of about the festival, McLain pointed to its growing inclusivity.
“One of the things I’m most proud of is how they started the ‘Close the Gap’ initiative and how they’re featuring more women in movies and directorships. I’ve always been a strong member of women’s rights, and that makes me really proud of the Mill Valley Film Festival,” McLain said.
McLain highly recommends the experience to newcomers, especially those visiting the iconic Sequoia Theater.
“People are so friendly. The sequoia is right across from the outdoor art club, and I’m a past president of the club. It’s just a magical, wonderful historical place where people gather. It’s vibrant. You have so many conversations and get to know so many people,” McLain said.
Longtime festival attendees Marie Boylan and Jeff Freedman shared what makes the MVFF so special to them.
“Talking to the people who are in line, waiting to go in, hearing what they’ve seen and sharing those stories together [is my favorite part of the festival]. It’s the storytelling, both in the movies and among the people we meet,” Boylan said.
“Plus, discovering those small films that will never make it to theaters or streaming, just having a really wonderful two hours in the movies [is really special],” Freedman said.
The couple revealed they’ve been coming to the festival on and off for over 25 years, and have been members for many years.
“We absolutely recommend [coming to the festival] to anyone new-jump in feet first and see several films. We’re becoming more involved members because we never want this festival to go away. It’s amazing to have something like this right here in our little town,” Boylan said.
As the curtain closes on another year, the MVFF continues to prove why it’s more than just a film showcase. It’s a celebration of voices, visions and community. Whether you’re a first-time student filmmaker or a longtime local, the festival offers something rare: a place where stories are not only seen, but shared.
