B. Frank Film Festival returned to New York as a launchpad for fearless voices in film

“Cinema must remain a space where artists are encouraged to take risks and confront the world as it is.”

— Michele Bear, Founder & Executive Producer

The B. Frank Film Festival is back for its second year — and it’s already redefining what “independent cinema” means in 2025. Founded by actor-producer Michele Bear, the one-day event unfolds on Sunday, October 5 at the SVA Theatre in Manhattan, spotlighting filmmakers who are unafraid to tell the truth and take creative risks.

Born from Bear’s desire to “create a space for truth-tellers and risk takers,” the festival has evolved from a small showcase into one of New York’s most authentic platforms for emerging voices. Its name honors Bear’s late mother, Bonnie Frank, whose “legacy of truth, courage, and belief in others inspires every frame of this festival.”

From The Future of Art to B. Frank

Before B. Frank existed, Bear launched a smaller program called The Future of Art, screening fourteen shorts — ten of which she executive-produced herself. That first iteration “was like building the plane while flying it,” she laughs, “but it taught me everything about how to do it right the next time.”

The second edition brings a more methodical approach: ten bold short films, one world-premiere feature, and a panel on the upcoming independent TV pilot MANEATERS, moderated by comedian and writer Keara Sullivan.

“Courageous cinema highlights different perspectives and goes against norms,” says Bear. “It means trying to achieve something outside of standard formulas in the film industry.”

Defining courageous cinema

For Bear, “courageous cinema” isn’t a marketing slogan — it’s the festival’s DNA.

“Especially right now, it feels important that filmmakers aren’t afraid to confront tough subjects or challenge audiences to think differently,” she explains. “We looked for stories that take creative risks and express something genuine about the world we live in.”

The festival’s programming reflects that conviction: each screening includes a Q&A with the filmmakers, offering audiences insight into the creative process and a space for dialogue about truth and art.

An actor’s perspective on building a festival

As an actor and performer, Bear brings empathy to her curatorial process.

“I know how important it is to have a stage and audience to showcase your work — especially early in your career,” she says. “That’s why I treat this festival like an ensemble. Everyone involved is part of the same performance.”

That collaborative spirit extends beyond the screen. Bear has built a production ecosystem through her company, MBear Entertainment, which develops projects like MANEATERS while producing the festival itself.

Panels, community, and connection

The B. Brave Panel, featuring MANEATERS, captures the festival’s commitment to conversation as much as curation.

“Panels let us hear directly from the filmmakers,” Bear notes. “It’s not just about showing the work — it’s about understanding the people and the courage behind it.”

Film and television increasingly intersect, she adds: “Good TV and good film both rely on quality storytelling. Whether it becomes a series or a feature, the goal is the same — to tell bold, honest stories that connect with audiences.”

A celebration of community

The festival’s energy isn’t limited to the theatre. Attendees will enjoy food and drink from New York favorites like Two Boots Pizza, C & B Bakery, ABC Wine Co., and Brooklyn Brewery. The red-carpet entrance adds glamour, while sponsor Unicorn Snot ensures guests leave with playful, glitter-dusted memories.

“Those community touches give credibility to the filmmakers we showcase,” says Bear. “It tells them that incredible brands want to be part of their success.”

Looking ahead

The long-term vision is as clear as its mission: to serve as a launchpad for emerging filmmakers.

“We want to be the place that gives someone their first ‘yes,’” Bear says. “You don’t have to be a big name to have your work recognized here.”

With plans to expand sponsorships, deepen its filmmaker support network, and grow into a lasting New York institution, B. Frank stands as both festival and movement — a declaration that courage still has a home in cinema.

Ignite your journey now

“Our audience is growing alongside us,” Bear reflects. “The mission will always remain the same — to champion the next generation of storytellers who dare to be brave.”

Festival Info

📍 When: Sunday, October 5, 2025 📍 Where: SVA Theatre, New York City 🎬 Website: www.bfrankfilmfestival.com 📸 Instagram: @b.frankfilmfest

About Michele Bear

Originally from San Francisco, Michele Bear studied Theater Performance at Marymount Manhattan College and trained at the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute. Her artistic foundation in performance shapes her producing philosophy: empathy, ensemble, and authenticity. Through MBear Entertainment and the B. Frank Film Festival, she continues to build spaces where fearless artists can thrive — and where truth takes center stage.