The second season of the Los Angeles Tribune International Film Festival (LATIFF 2026) opened at the beautiful Culver Theater on August 14th, 2026, , bringing together filmmakers, artists, industry leaders and audiences from across the world for a vibrant celebration of cinema, music and human connection.
The evening opened beautifully with Dr. Shellie Hipsky, accompanied by live musicians, delivering a captivating musical presentation that set an elegant and emotional tone for the night.
The red carpet was buzzing with excitement, with multiple media outlets present to capture arrivals, filmmakers and distinguished guests. A major highlight was the LATIFF 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award honoring acclaimed songwriter and composer Allan Rich, presented by Lisa Lew, President of the Manila Film Festival.
Rich’s remarkable career includes co-writing Whitney Houston’s “Run toYou,” from The Bodyguard soundtrack, and James Ingram’s #1 hit “I Don’t Have the Heart.” His extraordinary body of work has earned him Academy Award, Grammy, Golden Globe and Emmy nominations, making his Lifetime Achievement recognition a fitting tribute to an exceptional career in music and entertainment.
The festival is supported by visionary sponsors and partners, including Winn Slavin and Eselö.
The festival’s international spirit was evident throughout the day. Featured afternoon screenings of Wedding Flowers and Untrapped welcomed filmmakers and audiences who traveled from India and across the United States to be part of the experience.
The evening premiere of Chrysalis, based on the true story of Sir DanielWinn, drew a house-full audience and left viewers mesmerized. Sir DanielWinn was present alongside key members of the cast and crew, creating an especially meaningful experience for the audience. The screening was followed by a highly engaging Q&A, where the audience was eager to participate, asking questions and wanting to learn more about the extraordinary true story behind the film, its journey and the people who brought it to the screen.
The evening then continued with a vibrant and tastefully curatedreception, featuring delicious food, music and meaningful networking. Filmmakers, artists, industry professionals and guests came together in a warm and celebratory atmosphere, further strengthening the sense of community that lies at the heart of LATIFF.
For founder Moe Rock, LATIFF represents more than a traditional film festival:
“LATIFF is about bringing people together through the power of storytelling. We want to celebrate filmmakers who have something meaningful to say and create a platform where their voices can truly be heard.”
Co-founder Dr. Emily Letran echoed that vision:
“Film has the power to connect humanity. LATIFF is a place where diverse voices, cultures and stories come together, reminding us of what we share as human beings.”
Ruhi (Rohini) Hak, Chair of Programming, Partnerships & Social Impact, added:
“It is a blessing to have the support of visionaries like Moe and Emily, who believe in films that need to be seen, cannot be ignored, and have the courage to speak the truth.”
The festival’s prestigious jury includes Denise Blasor, Sami Khan and Rebecca Holden, bringing distinguished creative and industry perspectives to this year’s selections.
From the electric red carpet and international media buzz to live music, the Lifetime Achievement honor, international films, a mesmerizing premiere of Chrysalis, and a beautifully curated reception, LATIFF 2026 opened its second season with one clear message: great cinema does more than entertain — it connects, inspires and gives a voice to stories that matter.
At The Culver Theater, LATIFF’s second chapter began with art, purpose, humanity and an international community united by the belief that stories can change the world.
Written by Ruhi (Rohini) Hak – Chair of Programming, Partnerships & Social Impact, LATIFF
