Some shorts include Cvnt, a satirical story about a struggling single mother who turns to an unconventional side hustle to improve her life for her child, and Fine Black Frame, directed by Lea Doz, which follows a man exploring his Blackness, queerness, and masculinity through dance. Other shorts include My Billionaire, directed by Aidan Brezonick, a timely social satire about a working-class man who kidnaps a billionaire and redistributes his wealth to social causes. Additionally, there are shorts like Excuse Me, I’m On The Phone, directed by Bobby McCoy, Horse Fly, directed by Alex Park, and many more.
A highlight in Filmfort’s “Local Gems” program, which features films by Idaho filmmakers, is Dragged, directed by Claire Cunningham, based in Meridian, Idaho. It is a compelling documentary that includes two local drag queens and a Republican lawmaker sharing their perspectives on upcoming Idaho legislation.
“Our Local Gems short films program features works made by Idaho filmmakers,” says Phillipson. “We aim to showcase the variety of projects emerging from Idaho in that shorts program. We have documentaries, narratives, animation, and lots of interesting stories.”
A packed Treefort crowd shows the lively festival energy surrounding Filmfort in downtown Boise.
. Photo courtesy of Matt Wordell.
“While we love commercial films, hilarious comedies, and other easy-to-access content, we also enjoy things that confuse us and blow our minds, so we include a little bit of everything.”
Other interests at Filmfort 2026 include a prize package for the winner of the best short film pitch from Boise-based cinema services collective Different Animals, valued at over $20,000. The winning proposal must feature a short film concept that can be shot in a single 12-hour day within 30 miles of the Treasure Valley (Boise).
“It’s fantastic working with the Treefort Music Fest team,” says Phillipson. “The overall organization runs like a well-oiled machine, especially coordinating the many forts at Treefort. The division of labor is very clear, and people are highly responsive. Everybody associated with Treefort is having a good time and is quick to pitch in to help.” He adds, “Filmfort is my favorite film festival, mostly due to the camaraderie of the filmmakers and everyone is involved in film and loves to hang out, but we are a film festival embedded in a really fun music festival, so everyone is excited to be with each other beyond the screenings—it’s an immersive experience.”
Visit https://treefortmusicfest.com/fort/filmfort/ to learn more.
