‘Geena & Friends’ Celebrates Innovative Storytelling at Bentonville Film Festival
Cassandra Freeman, Tika Sumpter, and Michaela Watkins are slated to join the esteemed “Geena & Friends” program during the 2024 Bentonville Film Festival. This groundbreaking event takes place on June 14 at the Thaden Theater, as part of the festival’s commitment to reimagining traditional narratives with all-female and gender-nonconforming casts.
Academy Award winner Geena Davis leads this endeavor, which stands out as a highlight in the festival’s diverse lineup. The “Geena & Friends” program is merely one dimension of the broader mission of the Bentonville Film Festival, which focuses on showcasing underrepresented voices in entertainment, including those of women, non-binary individuals, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and people with disabilities.
The festival, founded and chaired by Davis, also features the Paramount Impact Series, which delves into supporting gender equity in the workplace. Another significant event is the screening of “White Bird,” narrating the inspiring tale of a young boy whose life is transformed by his grandmother’s remarkable story of courage during WWII.
A testament to its dedication to inclusivity, the Bentonville Film Festival boasts an impressive slate of films with diverse and underrepresented voices, ensuring a memorable experience for its audience.
Key events during the festival include:
- June 12: Paramount Impact Series at The Momentary’s Fermentation Hall, focusing on gender equity in the workplace
- June 12: The screening of “White Bird” at Skylight Cinemas, based on R.J. Palacio’s graphic novel
