Mission

MVFF Mission
To produce community events that celebrate all genres of film and spark discussion, debate and action.

Cinema Circus Mission
To produce family events that engage children with films, discussion, and activities that promote media literacy and community interaction

Founder's Statement
My childhood was filled with way too many hours of mind-numbing television and diversionary movies, but then I discovered that there was another kind of film—one that showed people doing things differently, daring to think for themselves, questioning, and living lives I could only dream about. A whole new world opened up for me and I realized that film has the power to help me change the way I think and live.

That is why I founded and continue to produce and direct the MVFF. I want to make a real contribution to my community's cultural development—to establish a storefront, if you will, for ideas, inspiration, and bold questions.

I want to thank all of those who have been curious and adventurous enough to help me –the entire MVFF team, the volunteers, staff, patrons, businesses, and of course, the filmmakers who make our festival possible.

Gratefully,

Thomas Bena
MVFF Founder/Artistic Director