This documentary is a poetic journey into humanity’s timeless bond and fascination with the wild horse—a connection that mirrors our relationship to nature, spirit, and the deeper layers of the soul.

Told through the lived wisdom of nine remarkable horsewomen, the film weaves sweeping landscapes, intimate stories, and teachings rooted in natural law to reveal why wild horses are more than just symbols of American heritage—they are sentient, mystical beings whose presence is vital to our survival and evolution.

Assigned to a missing person case, reporter Trish Bostwick follows the trail to a secluded asylum hidden in the New England woods. Everything changes when a knife-wielding stranger hijacks her car, plunging her into a descent of paranoia and madness.

This film is a psychological thriller that thrusts viewers into the shadowy heart of New England lore, where Lovecraft meets Folk Horror in terrifying ways.

Starring Katie Parker (Fall Of the House Of Usher, Haunting of Hill House, The Beldham), and Tara Perry (12 Hour Shift, The Fresh Beat Band).

Jesús, a formerly incarcerated father, is fighting to rebuild his life and regain custody of his young daughter after nearly a decade in prison.

As he navigates the harsh realities of reentry—unstable work, fractured family ties, and a system designed to keep him on the margins—Jesús clings to the hope of redemption through fatherhood.

This film explores the quiet, daily battles of reintegration with intimacy and restraint, grounding its story in working-class Latino life in Los Angeles.

Beloved wife and mother Emma Thorn (Lynn Lowry) has gone missing.

Husband Ari (Gregory Blair) and mildly autistic adult son Casper (Charles Chudabala) enlist a police detective (Kevin Caliber) to try to find her.

But the circumstances under which Emma left are puzzling and Casper suspects his father is haunted by something more than his wife’s absence. Bit by bit, the truth comes out, leading to a heartbreaking discovery.

Start the festival off right! Socialize with filmmakers & festival guests at this low-key meet-up event not-to-be-missed.

The Opening Night Reception is one of the most fun meet-ups of the festival, this is usually a more personal event compared to our other parties and events, a place where it is easier to make new friends and collaborators with our festival guests and fi lmmakers in a casual bar setting.

Purchase an HRIFF All-Party Ticket Package to check out all of our party events. Get your tickets today!

Opening Night Reception: Wed. March 4th
9:30pm-11:00pm | Line begins at 9:15pm | Doors at 9:30pm

Ticket Required For Entry.
21 & up. No Minors.
Venue To Be Announced