May Month Recap: MiFilm, NFMLA, and More

From Seen in Full to industry news and new opportunities, here’s what’s shaping this moment at MiFILM.

Author

MiFILM Admin
May 14, 2026

A MESSAGE FROM MIFILM

A few months into the year, and film and media aren’t slowing down anytime soon. There’s a lot to take in — but also a lot to be inspired by, especially for those ready to keep creating and putting their ideas out into the world.

This month, we’re sharing a roundup of recommendations, opportunities, and upcoming events — a little bit of everything to keep you inspired, informed, and connected to what’s happening in the community.

Let’s get into it.

MiFILM Membership Is Live

by Zhaire Felton

After six years of community building, MiFILM’s new tiered membership is officially live.

This next chapter creates a stronger foundation for Disabled/BIPOC filmmakers and creatives to learn, connect, and grow together — while helping power the programs and initiatives that continue to create visibility, opportunity, and meaningful support across our community.

Membership includes benefits like Fiscal Sponsorship support, early access to select submissions and opportunities, pitch deck revisions, portfolio reviews, Office Hours, and member discounts and perks.

Current members will receive an invitation to join our new platform directly.

If you’re not currently a member — or if you’d like to recommend a filmmaker, creative, or storyteller who should be part of the MiFILM community — please fill out this form:
Recommend a Member

NFMLA May Monthly Film Festival | InFocus: Disabilities

 Saturday, May 16
📍 1139 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
🎟️ Get Tickets

NewFilmmakers Los Angeles (NFMLA) hosts its May Monthly Film Festival, which spotlights disability stories and talent with disabilities in front of and behind the camera. In partnership with Minorities in Film (MiFilm), the festival highlights and celebrates the work of emerging filmmakers with disabilities, while fostering dialogue around identity, culture, and storytelling.

💥 Meet the Finalists:

Created by Apollo

  • Princess Usanga is focused on moving her proof-of-concept shorts, Missed Connections and The Poacher Assassin, into production while developing their feature-length versions. As she refines her artistic voice through writers labs and fellowships, she stays grounded and inspired by her work with domestic and wildlife animals.

  • Daniel Meier is kicking off his first feature, a documentary on the history of Down syndrome, while planning to shoot a short romcom this fall. As he builds his team and secures funding, he’s driven to create films that entertain, inspire, and reflect a world where everyone is valued equally.

  • Nader Bahu is using his creativity to explore growth and self-acceptance through his YouTube project Voice Box. His upcoming short follows a father and his disabled son navigating grief, baseball, and love, while he continues to prioritize authentic, respectful collaboration.

  • Ronak Shah is in post-production on Fountain of Youth, a feature about a Korean American scientist confronting her estranged mother during an Alzheimer’s trial. Passionate about exploring identity and family dynamics, she continues to develop character-driven stories while collaborating with fellow creatives.

  • Antonio Harper and Abby Burton are working toward getting a feature into development by the end of the year, refining projects for labs and producers. Balancing everyday life with their passion for storytelling, they find meaning in connection and perspective—while still dreaming of a future that includes filmmaking (and maybe a farm).

  • Becca Schall is writing her first short film with plans to direct it by the end of the year, embracing collaboration along the way. She’s passionate about working with actors—especially those underrepresented—and bringing depth and authenticity to every performance.

  • Radha Mehta is developing a feature with the goal of being ready to shoot by early 2027 while continuing to work on smaller projects. Drawn to immersive storytelling, they’re focused on building complete worlds and seeing each project through from beginning to end.

We hope to see you there!

Must Watch List

  • Maybe the most controversial on our list. Last month, The Legend of Aang leaked ahead of its October release, sending Paramount+ and Avatar: The Last Airbender fans into a frenzy! We’re still side eyeing Paramount+ on the missed opportunity but the next chapter for Avatar is on the horizon, bringing this long-loved series back into the spotlight. Whether you grew up with it or are just jumping in, now’s the perfect time to revisit the world and get ready for what’s next.

  • MuMu is a heartfelt, tear-jerking story that’s been quietly resonating with audiences. If you’re in the mood for something emotional and deeply human, this is one to add to your watchlist.

  • A New Love in Tokyo made its theatrical debut this February, marking a romantic return to the big screen. If you haven’t tuned in yet, it’s never too late to get with the program and experience it for yourself.

  • Michael is making waves as a recent release, celebrating the legacy and artistry of Michael Jackson. As audiences revisit his impact, the film serves as both a tribute and a reminder of his enduring influence on music and culture.

  • Project Hail Mary arrives as a fresh sci-fi release, blending high-stakes survival with big ideas and heart. It’s one to watch if you’re looking for something gripping, ambitious, and a little out of this world.

👀 Wanna Be Featured in the Next Issue?

Got a screening, residency, grant, or film drop coming up? Share your story to be featured, or Submit your opportunity as a Community Partner 

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