Jonesboro, AR – (Contributed) – Aug. 8, 2025 – After three years as the Oasis Film and Digital Media Festival, organizers have unveiled a new name and expanded vision: Porchlight Film Festival, a community-rooted celebration of regional and independent storytelling.
“We wanted a name that evokes comfort, southern roots, and an open invitation to filmmakers of all backgrounds,” said festival director Lorenzo Balderas. “Porchlight reflects our mission: creating a welcoming space where stories and storytellers can come home.”
The rebranded festival will feature three days of film screenings, filmmaker Q&As, hands-on workshops, student showcases, and networking opportunities. Submissions are now open here, with categories for features, shorts, collegiate, and youth filmmakers.
“The name also holds historical significance as we honor the building that houses the event. The Forum Theater was once known as the Strand Theater. It served as a beacon for downtown: a movie house where people could come and experience stories together. We want to continue that legacy.”
The 2026 festival will take place April 10-12 at the Forum Theater in the Foundation of Arts in downtown Jonesboro. It is located at 115 E. Monroe Ave.
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