Yucca Valley Film Festival returns this weekend starting 11/7

Hilary Sloane Hilary Sloane Send an email November 4, 2025

The 7th edition of the Yucca Valley Film Festival returns November 7th through 9th, bringing together filmmakers, artists, and audiences for a weekend celebrating independent cinema.

Since its establishment, the Yucca Valley Film Festival has developed into a cultural landmark in the hi desert. The festival is recognized for supporting independent filmmakers, creating career opportunities, and gaining international acclaim.

Festival organizer Auregan says the recognition reflects the dedication behind the event.

This year’s festival will once again be hosted by Malaisé, a versatile performer recognized for her work in film, theater, and voice acting. She returns to the festival as the primary host, moderating movie panels, meet-and-greets, and the final Awards Ceremony.

Headlining the festival is award-winning actor and director James Morrison, best known for his roles in 24, Twin Peaks, and Law & Order: SVU. He’ll present a Masterclass on Saturday afternoon and meet fans afterward.

Across three days, audiences will see over fifty films, from local shorts to international features, plus panel discussions, a children’s animation block, and multiple red-carpet events. Among the highlights are the documentary Will & Silence by Hi-Desert filmmaker Robbi Robb, and Milk Baby by Kristen Gerweck Diaz, whose previous work was short-listed for the Academy Awards. 

Kids’ films will screen on Saturday, November 8, at 1:00 p.m. in the Yucca Room at the Yucca Valley Community Center. 

All screenings and events are free and open to the public at the Yucca Valley Community Center. For the complete schedule, visit yuccavalleyfilmfestival.com.

Hilary Sloane Hilary Sloane Send an email November 4, 2025
Hilary Sloane

Hilary Sloane

After a long successful career as a Photostylist and producer in New York and Los Angeles, Hilary Sloane moved to the Morongo Basin and began a new career as a journalist and documentary photographer, getting a journalism certification from Michigan State. Hilary is a member of the Society of Environmental Journalists (SEJ) and has documented the work of local and International non-profits. She has a podcast on Sound Cloud and is looking forward to adding more. Her favorite pastime is watching the wildlife around her home, traveling, and meeting new people.