About Us
WHO WE ARE
Our Mission
We change perspectives, transform lives, and strengthen our communities by supporting and spurring on the art of filmmaking through; exhibition, production, distribution, education, and networking.
We Believe in Changing the World Through Film
We believe in the revival of film art for mainstream audiences.
TCFF is the gateway for movie lovers into the deep well of American Independent Cinema from across the country. The original film-art we showcase contrasts the increasingly formulaic blockbuster that falls flat with audiences.
We believe in the Minnesota Film Artist.
The high caliber film talent found in Minnesota deserves a nationally visible platform. TCFF is dedicated to the cultivation of local filmmakers by providing educational resources to expand skill sets, networking with the national film industry, and nurturing distribution opportunities.
We believe in film.
No medium provokes discussion and evokes empathy more than film. TCFF programming is replete with diverse voices that challenge the status quo and shift perceptions. Socially responsible programming pushes our audience to make an individual difference in their community and positively shape society.
Executive Staff
Support Staff
Our support team connects with our audience, clients, and filmmakers to make them comfortable and create special moments.
- Aaron Young, Festival Attorney
- Briana Lee, Red Carpet/Screening Host
- Charlotte Kodner, Hospitality and Education Director
- Josh Dahlman, Senior Programmer
- Krista Johnsen, Creative Director
- Dallas Smith, Lead Photographer
- Eric Heskin, Technical Director
- Jessica Zumeta, Shorts Programmer
- John Mellesmoe, Innovations Director and Lounge Manager
- Vitali Gueron, Events Team
- Nan Loucks, Events Team
- Kirstie House, Media Producer
- Laura Austrian, Grant Writer
- Lee Jordan, Head Concierge
- Ruth Maramis, Official Festival Blogger
- Lori Roovers, Red Carpet/Events Team
- Paul Domka, Lead Playback
- Liz Oswood, Playback
Lights. Camera. Action!
We believe in capturing timeless moments at our annual festival and year-round events. When you look back and see the photographs, you get a chance to reexperience people’s smile, warmth, and laughter.
